This Spiced Roasted Cauliflower with Yogurt Drizzle is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s bound to liven up your dinner table. It's a delightful combination of warm spices and tangy yogurt, making it perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up!
Cauliflower is the star of this dish, offering a neutral base that absorbs all the wonderful spices. Olive oil ensures the cauliflower roasts beautifully, giving it a nice golden brown color. The spice blend of ground cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper adds warmth and depth, with a hint of smokiness. Salt and black pepper enhance the overall flavor. For the drizzle, plain Greek yogurt brings a creamy tanginess, while lemon juice adds a fresh zing. Garlic introduces a subtle pungency, and the fresh mint and cilantro provide a refreshing finish.
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty quinoa salad or as a topping on a bed of fresh greens. It’s also a fantastic appetizer for a dinner party!
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. While the oven warms up, take a large head of cauliflower and cut it into bite-sized florets. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even roasting. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Drizzle about two tablespoons of olive oil over the cauliflower. Use your hands or a spatula to toss them, ensuring each floret is well coated. This helps the spices stick and promotes even browning.
In a small bowl, mix together one teaspoon each of ground cumin and smoked paprika, half a teaspoon of turmeric powder, a quarter teaspoon of cayenne pepper, half a teaspoon of salt, and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper. Sprinkle this aromatic mix over the cauliflower and toss again until the spices are evenly distributed.
Spread the seasoned cauliflower onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Pop the tray in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Remember to stir them halfway through to get that perfect golden brown on all sides.
As the cauliflower roasts, let’s whip up the yogurt drizzle. In a bowl, combine one cup of plain Greek yogurt with a tablespoon of lemon juice. Add a minced clove of garlic, and the freshly chopped mint and cilantro. Stir everything together until smooth and set aside.
Once the cauliflower is tender and beautifully browned, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, generously drizzled with the yogurt sauce, and enjoy the delightful mix of flavors.