If you’re looking for a show-stopping side dish that’s as healthy as it is flavorful, this Garlic & Herb Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a must-try! It’s beautifully golden, bursting with Italian-inspired herbs, and topped with melty Parmesan and fresh parsley for a restaurant-quality finish. This low-carb, vegetarian dish works as a stunning centerpiece or a savory side that’s sure to impress. Did you know whole roasted cauliflower has become a modern favorite thanks to its versatility and bold flavor potential? If you loved our Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin, you’re going to adore this herb-roasted version!
What is Garlic & Herb Whole Roasted Cauliflower?
This dish features an entire head of cauliflower brushed with a savory garlic and herb butter, then oven-roasted until tender and golden. It’s finished with Parmesan cheese and a quick broil for that irresistible crust. Why the hype? It’s simple, satisfying, and makes vegetables the star of the table. As the old saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—and this dish gets there with fewer carbs and more flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Cauliflower
Flavor-Packed and Elegant
Infused with garlic, Italian herbs, and rich butter, every bite is savory and satisfying. The Parmesan topping adds a perfect cheesy finish.
Healthy and Low-Carb
This is a delicious alternative to heavy starches. It’s gluten-free, keto-friendly, and easily made dairy-free.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Serve it as a main for Meatless Monday or as a side for holiday dinners. If you liked our Roasted Garlic Broccoli, this cauliflower takes it to the next level.
How to Make Garlic & Herb Whole Roasted Cauliflower
Quick Overview
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this stunning roasted cauliflower is ready in under an hour. Most of the magic happens in the oven!
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower, leaves removed
- 2 Tbsp butter, melted (or dairy-free alternative)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2–3 Tbsp Parmesan cheese (dairy-free if needed)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Step-by-Step:
- Preheat Oven:
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Remove outer leaves and cut away the thick stalk at the base.
- Make Garlic Herb Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic.
- Brush and Bake:
- Place the cauliflower in a Dutch oven or baking dish.
- Brush 3/4 of the sauce evenly over the cauliflower.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Roast and Broil:
- Remove foil and continue baking for 10–20 minutes until golden.
- Brush with remaining sauce, sprinkle with Parmesan, and broil for 3–5 minutes until golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
What to Serve Garlic & Herb Roasted Cauliflower With
This dish pairs well with roast chicken, steak, or baked fish. It also works beautifully alongside vegetarian entrees like lentil loaf or stuffed peppers. Serve with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a dollop of herbed yogurt sauce for an elegant touch.
Top Tips for Perfecting Roasted Cauliflower
- Use a Basting Brush: Ensures even coating of the sauce.
- Choose a Firm Head: Fresh, tightly packed cauliflower roasts best.
- Don’t Skip the Broil: It adds that crave-worthy golden crust.
- Customize the Herbs: Add rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika for variety.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in a microwave for convenience. It’s not recommended to freeze whole roasted cauliflower, as the texture may become mushy.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Prep and roast ahead, then broil just before serving.
Can I use vegan cheese? Absolutely. Dairy-free Parmesan alternatives work wonderfully.
How do I know when it’s done? The cauliflower should be fork-tender and golden on the outside.
Conclusion
Garlic & Herb Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a flavorful, healthy dish that transforms a humble vegetable into something truly special. With its crispy, cheesy crust and tender interior, it’s bound to be a favorite at your dinner table—whether as a centerpiece or a stunning side.
Garlic & Herb Whole Roasted Cauliflower
Equipment
- Dutch Oven
- Basting Brush
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 head Cauliflower Leaves removed
- 2 Tbsp Butter Melted (or dairy-free alternative)
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 1/2 tsp Salt To taste
- 1/4 tsp Pepper To taste
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 2 cloves Garlic Crushed
- 2-3 Tbsp Parmesan Cheese Dairy-free if needed
- to taste Fresh Parsley Finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a Dutch oven or baking dish.
- Remove outer leaves from the cauliflower and trim the thick base stem so the head sits flat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic.
- Place cauliflower in dish and brush with 3/4 of the sauce. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and continue roasting 10–20 minutes until golden and fork-tender.
- Brush with remaining sauce, sprinkle Parmesan on top, and broil for 3–5 minutes until crust forms.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.