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Baked Orange Cauliflower

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Baked Orange Cauliflower is a simple yet flavorful dish that turns ordinary cauliflower into a vibrant, citrus-infused delight. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetable while the orange glaze adds tangy, sweet, and slightly savory notes. This recipe is perfect as a side dish, a vegetarian main, or part of a healthy meal prep plan.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Wash and cut the cauliflower into medium-sized florets.
  3. In a large bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Toss the cauliflower florets in the mixture to coat evenly.
  4. Drizzle the olive oil over the seasoned florets and toss gently.
  5. In a separate small bowl, mix fresh orange juice, orange zest, honey (or maple syrup), and soy sauce until fully combined.
  6. Pour half of the orange glaze over the cauliflower and toss to coat evenly, reserving the rest for later.
  7. Arrange the cauliflower in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Ensure florets are spaced out to allow air circulation.
  8. Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes. Halfway through, remove the tray and baste the florets with the remaining glaze. Toss lightly and return to the oven.
  9. After 25 minutes, check for tenderness and slight caramelization. Roast an additional 5 minutes if deeper color is desired, watching closely to prevent burning.
  10. Optional: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like parsley before serving.

Notes

For extra crispiness, use a high-temperature oven and avoid overcrowding the pan.

The glaze can be prepared in advance to save time.

For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 30