Garam Masala Roasted Cauliflower (Paleo, Whole30, Keto)
Updated: Mar 8
Warm and fragrant Indian spices are beautifully paired with tender cauliflower for a perfect side dish to your curries and eastern inspired dishes! This vegetable side dish is so simple with only three main ingredients and is ready to eat in less than 30-minutes. You will love the hints of cloves, cardamom, and coriander as it brings out the natural sweetness of the cauliflower.
Cauliflower can often be overlooked when at the store, and we may make the mistake of thinking that since it is a "white" vegetable, it is not as "nutrient dense", which cannot be further from the truth (read more below about the amazing benefits of cauliflower). Many of us just try to find places to either hide it or add to things as a way to increase fiber or create meals that are lower carb and grain free. However, I must tell you, when I make this dish, I always have to double the recipe since my family loves it so much, I honestly think they like this more than the main course I typically serve it with! Try this delicious and nutritious garam masala cauliflower and you will not be disappointed!
Why Cauliflower is So Good for You!
There are several reasons why you should add more cauliflower to your rotation of vegetables! Cauliflower belongs to the cruciferous vegetable family and is packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and when eaten, an amazing phytochemical called Sulforaphane becomes available [1].
Studies have shown that sulforaphane may prevent cancer or slow the growth of tumors, is naturally anti-inflammatory, and aids in our body's detoxification process. Heart health, blood sugar regulation, and digestion all may benefit from consuming sulforaphane as well!
Let's talk vitamins, cauliflower is loaded with vitamin K, C and B6! Vitamin K is essential in bone health and it is converted to vitamin K2 by our gut microbiome, which supports our heart health! Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant our bodies use to neutralize free radicals and one cup contains around 75% of your daily recommended value! The essential vitamin B6 found in cauliflower benefits your brain chemistry and mood since it is necessary in the formation of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine [2].
As if this isn't enough, cauliflower contains the minerals potassium, necessary for heart and nervous system health as well as cellular hydration, and magnesium, the fourth most abundant mineral in your body that is necessary in muscle relaxation, detoxification, and metabolic function.
So grab a few heads of cauliflower and let's get cooking!
Garam Masala Roasted Cauliflower Ingredients
Serves 4-6
1 Head of Cauliflower, cut into 2" pieces
1 Tbsp Ghee, melted OR you can use Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 tsp Garam Masala Seasoning
1 tsp Fine Sea Salt
1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
How to Make Garam Masala Roasted Cauliflower
1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees.
2. Rinse and cut off any dark spots you may find on your cauliflower, they can easily grow little spots of mold. Using a sharp knife, cut your head of cauliflower in half, from top to bottom. Carefully cut the florets off the stem and cut into smaller pieces, about 2"-3" in length.
3. In a large bowl add the ghee or olive oil and spices. Mix together and add cauliflower florets, tossing to evenly coat.
4. Spread the cauliflower in a single layer over a large baking sheet or bar pan (you may line your roasting pan with parchment if you want).
5. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until lightly browned and tender.
6. Remove and serve!
FAQs
Q: Why is my cauliflower still hard?
A: You may need to roast it a little longer. Every oven varies in temperature so test a piece before you remove from the oven.
Q: Why is my cauliflower mushy?
A: Sounds like they were overcooked, try reducing cook time next go round.
Q: Why is my cauliflower cooked unevenly?
A: Make sure that you spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet and do not overcrowd the pan.
What to Serve with Garam Masala Roasted Cauliflower
This simple and easy vegetable side dish is so flavorful and versatile it can pair with almost any grilled protein dish. I especially love it with my Smoked Spatchcock Chicken or a delicious pan seared ribeye steak!
If you are looking to serve it with more complementary spiced dishes, try my Chicken Shawarma Kebabs and Katie's Lemon Roasted Potatoes for a complete and tasty meal that shows off all these beautiful spices!
I hope you enjoy this as much as my family does. - Amy
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