Simple Roasted Cauliflower With Za’atar
The nutty herbaceous flavor of za’atar is a wonderful partner for roasted cauliflower. Paired with a garlicky whipped feta that takes very little time to throw together makes this recipe into a scene-stealing side that really dresses up otherwise-basic meals, like Roasted Salmon or Grilled Chicken. If you’re looking for a light meal, you could even serve this as a vegetarian main, with a big Caesar Salad and Sourdough Bread. For another roasted cauliflower side, try our stunning whole roasted cauliflower recipe, or get wild with our Roasted Cauliflower with Toasted Panko and Golden Raisins.
What Is Za’atar?
Za’atar is an earthy, tangy, herby, nutty Middle Eastern spice blend. As with many spice blends, za’atar ingredients aren’t set in stone. Rather, they vary quite a bit from brand to brand, but you can always expect that lemony-nutty-herby flavor profile. Marjoram is often in the mix, along with oregano, thyme, toasted sesame seeds and sumac. Sometimes there’s salt in the mix, or dried dill. If you’re in a bind and you just can’t get your hands on za'atar, you can make an acceptable za’atar substitute by combining oregano, marjoram and thyme. It won’t be the same, but your cauliflower would still be roasty and delicious.
Everything You’ll Need to Make the Best Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
Za’atar is the dominant flavor in this roasted cauliflower recipe—it’s in the whipped feta and on the cauliflower itself, too. A bit of fresh dill and lemon juice in the feta echo its tangy, vibrant flavor, and brighten the dish even more. Here’s everything you’ll need to make it:
Cauliflower – We’re always looking for creative ways to prepare cauliflower, and we have an entire round up dedicated to this versatile vegetable: 20 Best Cauliflower Recipes.
Za'atar – It’s such a great spice blend, and goes with so much, including Za'atar Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner. The earthy flavor of za’atar loves roasted vegetables, and our Za’atar Roasted Carrots with Feta and Pumpkin Seeds are a great example.
Feta – It’s good crumbled (Greek Fries) and whipped (Creamy Feta with Tinned Fish or Spicy Roasted Red Pepper Bucatini with Whipped Feta)
Parsley + Fresh dill – More herbs, please!
How To Make Za'atar Roasted Cauliflower And Herb Whipped Feta
Roasted cauliflower, when cut into little florets and roasted in the oven at high heat, takes on a wonderful, nutty flavor, and super-satisfying texture. Here’s how to make some brassica magic:
Cut the cauliflower heads into florets before rinsing, so that you can be sure to get them super clean in every last nook and cranny.
Spread the florets out on a baking sheet, and toss them with olive oil, za’atar and salt.
Roast! 45 minutes at 400°F.
Time to make the feta! Pop all of the whipped feta ingredients in a food processor and whiz until it’s smooth.
Serve! See, that wasn’t so hard, right?
How to Store Roasted Cauliflower + Tips
Roasted cauliflower can be stored in the fridge for up to four days, but is better close to the day you prepare it! Roasted cauliflower can be frozen in an airtight container, and used within three months. To reheat, you can place it in the fridge in the morning you plan to use and reheat for 15-20 minutes in a 350°F oven.
If you’re worried about overcooking cauliflower, here’s a couple of pointers. Give your cauliflower florets room on the roasting pan. This is a good rule of thumb for roasting vegetables in general. If they’re touching they’ll steam and not roast, and the texture will be mushy and not crunchy. A hot oven will help as well!
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