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Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower Recipe

4.6 from 658 reviews

This Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower recipe offers a deliciously caramelized vegetable side dish with a perfect balance of sweet honey, spicy sriracha, and smoky paprika. It’s an easy, healthy, and flavorful option that can be customized for vegan and gluten-free diets and makes a wonderful appetizer or accompaniment to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Cauliflower and Sauce

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish (optional)

  • Chopped green onions
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), soy sauce (or tamari), sriracha, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
  3. Coat Cauliflower: Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce mixture.
  4. Spread on Baking Sheet: Transfer the coated cauliflower florets to the prepared baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even roasting and caramelization.
  5. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Stir the cauliflower halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning and tenderness.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Once the cauliflower is tender and caramelized, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired, and serve warm as a delicious side dish or appetizer.

Notes

  • For a vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup.
  • Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.
  • Adjust sriracha quantity based on your preferred spice level.
  • Ensure cauliflower florets are cut evenly for uniform cooking.
  • Stirring halfway through baking helps achieve even caramelization.

Keywords: baked cauliflower, sweet and spicy cauliflower, healthy vegetable side, vegan baked cauliflower, gluten-free side dish, easy vegetable recipe