Whether you serve it as a side dish or a meat-free main dish, this whole roasted cauliflower is so delicious! Seasoned with parmesan cheese, garlic and herbs, this simple recipe packs a punch of flavor.
Rinse the cauliflower head and pat dry. Remove the outer leaves. Carefully cut off the bottom so that it's flat and most of the woody stem is removed, being careful not to cut off so much that it falls apart. Be sure the head stays intact.
In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (half of the total amount), Italian herb seasonings, salt, and black pepper.
Place the trimmed cauliflower head upside down (core side up) into a cast iron skillet. Using a spoon, drizzle 1/2 of the sauce over the cauliflower. Flip over and drizzle the remaining sauce over the top. Use a pastry brush to spread the garlic parmesan mixture well.
Cover the cast iron skillet and the cauliflower with an aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven for 30 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender and pierces easily with a fork.
Remove the lid. Sprinkle the top of the cauliflower with the remaining 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese & remaining sauce. Place the cauliflower in the oven and bake for an additional 10 – 13 minutes. Finally, place under the broiler and broil for about 3 minutes, until the cheese is browned.
Notes
Trim leaves and stalk, but keep the cauliflower whole for roasting.
Customize with your favorite herbs or spices—fresh or dried like garlic powder.
Serve cut into steaks or wedges, with lemon juice or tahini sauce for extra flavor.