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 neither water-soluble nor heat-sensitive. 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, then transfer 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!