Pesto Cauliflower

Introduction

Pesto Cauliflower is a delicious and easy side dish that combines the nutty, herbaceous flavors of pesto with the subtle sweetness of roasted cauliflower. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also brings a burst of flavor to your meal, making it a perfect accompaniment for any main course. The addition of Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice elevates the taste, giving the cauliflower a crispy, savory finish that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients

• 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 3-4 tablespoons pesto
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 lemon, juiced

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed sheet pan with foil for easier cleanup if desired.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets onto the prepared sheet pan. Dollop the pesto over the cauliflower and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Coat the Cauliflower: Using clean hands, toss the cauliflower florets to ensure they are evenly coated with the pesto. Spread them out into a single layer on the sheet pan, ensuring there is space between the florets to allow them to roast properly.
4. Roast the Cauliflower: Place the sheet pan on the middle rack of the oven and roast the cauliflower for 12-15 minutes.
5. Add Parmesan and Continue Roasting: Remove the cauliflower from the oven and flip the florets over with a spatula. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and return the pan to the oven. Roast for another 10-12 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and caramelized.
6. Finish and Serve: Once the cauliflower is done roasting, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a serving platter or bowl. Squeeze the lemon juice over the cauliflower, and if desired, add extra dollops of pesto and a sprinkle of more Parmesan cheese before serving.

Conclusion

Pesto Cauliflower is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. The combination of roasted cauliflower with pesto, Parmesan, and lemon creates a dish that’s not only easy to make but also packed with delicious, savory goodness. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian spread, this Pesto Cauliflower is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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