Savoury Spiced Roasted Cauliflower
I think this might be my favourite new recipe of the season! I've been making it almost weekly while cauliflower has been in season and on sale. It's incredibly versatile, and the simple combination of nut butter and applesauce creates a flavourful coating without the need for oil. Sometimes I serve it as a side dish, other times I use it to top a bowl of soup, it's especially delicious on my Butternut Squash Soup. I also love making the Mexican-inspired version and tucking it into tacos with black beans and vegan chipotle aioli. Yum!
Ingredients
- 1 medium cauliflower cut into small florets
- 2 tbsp nut butter
- 2 tbsp applesauce
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp coriander
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp ground red chilis optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (400°F convection). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the nut butter, applesauce, and water until smooth. Add the cumin, garam masala, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and optional chili, stirring until well combined.
- Add the cauliflower florets and toss until evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 35–40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and caramelized.
Notes
Choose Your Nut Butter
Cashew butter creates the mildest flavour, while almond or peanut butter add a slightly richer, nuttier taste. Boost the Protein
For a heartier dish, add 1 can (14 oz/398 ml) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed, to the cauliflower before tossing with the spice mixture. Roast everything together for a complete side dish or light meal. Try a Different Spice Blend
Feel free to change the spices depending on your mood. For a Mexican-inspired version, substitute the spices above with:
Serve alongside grain bowls, curries, salads, or tucked into wraps. It also makes a delicious addition to roasted vegetable platters. Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to help restore the crisp edges.
Cashew butter creates the mildest flavour, while almond or peanut butter add a slightly richer, nuttier taste. Boost the Protein
For a heartier dish, add 1 can (14 oz/398 ml) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed, to the cauliflower before tossing with the spice mixture. Roast everything together for a complete side dish or light meal. Try a Different Spice Blend
Feel free to change the spices depending on your mood. For a Mexican-inspired version, substitute the spices above with:
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground chili (optional)
Serve alongside grain bowls, curries, salads, or tucked into wraps. It also makes a delicious addition to roasted vegetable platters. Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to help restore the crisp edges.