Perfectly Roasted Cauliflower

This is one of my favorite vegetables and a great side dish. Cauliflower is rich in nutrients, anti-inflammatory, and possesses anti-aging properties, among other benefits. It also brings me fond memories of Macedonia and how my mom included it in pickled vegetable arrangements.

I have decided to try the Orange Dream cauliflower, and our local farmers' market opened just in time. Its pigments are not water-soluble or sensitive to heat. It resembles any old cauliflower in shape alone, but its color, ranging from creamy coral to sunburst orange, is unique. The hue, it turns out, comes from the extra beta-carotene naturally stored in its florets (which also gives this cauliflower 25 percent more vitamin A than the more common white variety).

Photo: Julija Velkovska

Yield: 4 servings
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes 
Level: Easy

Ingredients:

• One cauliflower - large head, cut into florets

• 4-5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil - or enough to coat

• 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Salt & pepper

• Smoked paprika (optional)

Preparation:

- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place cauliflower in a large mixing bowl. Pour on the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss until evenly coated and transfer it to a baking dish.

- Bake for about 30 minutes, turning once, until caramelized on edges and tender. Sprinkle the cheese and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the dish, cover it with foil, and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Bon Appétit!