Roasted Cauliflower with Mint and Olive Sauce
Ready to elevate your regular vegetable side dishes? Then this flavorful and simple Roasted Cauliflower with Mint and Olive Sauce is perfect for you! Vibrant and zesty, this dish is not only visually pleasing but also a treat to your taste buds.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Why Make this Roasted Cauliflower with Mint and Olive Sauce?
Cauliflower’s often mild taste makes it an excellent canvas to experiment with bold flavors. In this recipe, roasting the cauliflower enhances its natural sweetness, making it an ideal match for the fresh and tangy mint and olive sauce. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals without compromising on taste.
How to Make Roasted Cauliflower with Mint and Olive Sauce?
Ingredients:
For this recipe, you will need:
– 1 large cauliflower head, cut into florets
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup green olives, pitted and chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– Zest of 1 lemon
Directions:
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Then, take the cauliflower florets and toss them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil as well as salt and pepper.
3. Next, spread them evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 25 minutes, or until they turn golden and tender.
4. While your cauliflower is roasting, you can prepare the sauce. Simply mix together the chopped olives, mint leaves, lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, and the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
5. Finally, transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving dish and drizzle the sauce all over it.
How to Store Roasted Cauliflower with Mint and Olive Sauce?
Store leftover roasted cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can microwave it until warm or heat it in a pan over medium heat. Drizzle some fresh sauce over it before serving.
Tips to Make Roasted Cauliflower with Mint and Olive Sauce
– For a more caramelized and flavorful cauliflower, don’t overcrowd the florets on the baking sheet. Spread them out evenly to ensure that they roast properly instead of steaming.
– Fresh mint leaves and olives are essential for this recipe as they provide the dish with a refreshing and tangy flavor. Use them generously.
Variations
You can add parmesan or feta cheese in this recipe. Cheese adds a new layer of flavor and creaminess that pairs beautifully with the acidity of the sauce.
FAQs
Question 1: Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
Answer: Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, however, the texture might differ slightly from using fresh cauliflower.
Question 2: Can I replace mint with another herb?
Answer: Yes, you can replace mint with fresh parsley or cilantro, though the flavor profile will change.
Question 3: Can I make this dish ahead?
Answer: Yes, this dish can be made ahead. Store the cauliflower and sauce separately in the fridge and combine them before serving.