Spiced Maple Roasted Cauliflower

Name: Spiced Maple Roasted Cauliflower
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp pure maple syrup; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 30 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

Be the First to Review!

Spiced Maple Roasted Cauliflower is the perfect blend of sweet and savory with a hint of heat. It’s a fantastic side dish to brighten up your dinner table, especially during those cooler seasons when you crave something warm and comforting.

Save Print Jump to Recipe

Ingredients for Spiced Maple Roasted Cauliflower

Cauliflower: Our star ingredient, it serves as a blank canvas that absorbs the flavors beautifully. Olive oil helps in roasting and adds a subtle richness. Maple syrup brings a touch of sweetness that caramelizes during roasting. Ground cumin adds an earthy, warm flavor. Ground cinnamon provides a hint of warmth and depth. Cayenne pepper gives a gentle kick of heat. Salt enhances all the flavors, and black pepper adds a subtle bite. Fresh parsley brightens the dish with freshness. Finally, toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Tips & Tricks

To ensure even roasting, cut cauliflower florets into similar sizes.
For extra crispiness, make sure the florets are spread out on the baking sheet without crowding.
If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper to 1/8 teaspoon.

Serving Suggestions

This Spiced Maple Roasted Cauliflower pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or grilled fish. It's also a great addition to a grain bowl with quinoa or farro. For a vegan meal, serve it alongside a hearty lentil stew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cauliflower?: Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat it dry to avoid excess moisture.
What if I don't have maple syrup?: You can substitute with honey or agave syrup, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Spiced Maple Roasted Cauliflower Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will ensure your cauliflower gets nice and crispy. While the oven is heating, grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is the secret sauce that makes our cauliflower irresistible.

Next, add the cauliflower florets to the bowl. Toss them well to ensure each floret is thoroughly coated with the spice mixture. This is where the magic happens, as the spices will seep into the cauliflower as it roasts.

Spread the coated cauliflower evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This not only helps with easy cleanup but also prevents sticking. Place the sheet in your preheated oven and let it roast for 25-30 minutes. Make sure to stir the cauliflower halfway through to promote even browning.

Once the cauliflower is golden brown and tender, remove it from the oven. Transfer it to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped parsley and toasted pine nuts. These final touches add flavor, color, and texture, making the dish as beautiful as it is tasty.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare — perfect for busy weeknights.
A healthy alternative to heavier sides like potatoes or pasta.
Combines sweet, spicy, and earthy flavors in one dish.
Vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for many diets.

Ingredients

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp pure maple syrup

1 tsp ground cumin

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

2 tbsp toasted pine nuts

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

3. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until they are well-coated with the mixture.

4. Spread the cauliflower evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender, stirring halfway through.