Easy Roasted Cauliflower with Cumin & Lime (Low-Carb Side)

Cauliflower is a cornerstone of the clean-eating Mediterranean diet, but texture is key. This recipe moves away from bland steaming and utilizes high-heat roasting to achieve a nutty flavor. From an expertise perspective, the secret to restaurant-quality cauliflower is the “flat-side roast.” By slicing the florets to create at least one flat surface, we maximize the contact area with the hot pan, ensuring a deep caramelization (Maillard reaction) that rounded pieces simply cannot achieve.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 Min
• Cook Time: 25 Min
• Total Time: 35 Min
• Yield: 4 Servings
• Calories: 75 kcal per serving

Ingredients:

The Foundation

• 1 large head Cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 2 tbsp Avocado Oil (High smoke point for roasting)
• 1/2 tsp Salt & 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

The “Gold Standard” Zest

• 1.5 tsp Ground Cumin
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 Lime, zest and juice
• 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped

The Finishing Touch

• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional heat)

Preparation Steps:

1. The Professional “Flat-Edge” Cut

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Technique: When cutting, don’t just break off florets. Slice through larger pieces to create flat surfaces. These flat edges will brown beautifully against the hot sheet pan.

2. The Spice Coating

3. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with avocado oil, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Ensure every nook and cranny is coated so the spices infuse into the vegetable rather than just sitting on top.

3. The High-Heat Roast

5. Spread cauliflower in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Ensure there is space between florets.
6. Roast for 20–25 minutes, tossing halfway, until edges are dark golden-brown and stems are tender.

4. The Zesty Bloom

7. Remove from oven. While piping hot, zest the lime directly over the pan and squeeze the juice over the florets.
8. Add cilantro and toss. The residual heat will “bloom” the lime zest, releasing essential oils for a professional finish.

Expert Tips:

• Pro Sear: If you prefer extra crispy cauliflower, place your baking sheet in the oven while it preheats. Tossing the veggies onto a sizzling hot pan creates an instant sear.
• Crowding Rule: If you crowd the pan, the cauliflower will steam instead of roast. Use two pans if necessary to give every floret “Gold Standard” breathing room.