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### **Instructions:**
#### 1. **Prepare the Cauliflower**:
Preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. Remove the outer leaves of the cauliflower and trim the stem so that it can sit flat. Rinse the cauliflower thoroughly and pat dry with a towel.
#### 2. **Season the Cauliflower**:
Place the cauliflower head on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Drizzle **olive oil** (or melted butter) evenly over the cauliflower, making sure to coat it well. Sprinkle with **salt**, **pepper**, **garlic powder**, and **smoked paprika**. Rub the seasoning into the cauliflower for an even coating.
#### 3. **Roast the Cauliflower**:
Cover the cauliflower loosely with foil and roast it in the preheated oven for about **30-35 minutes**. After this time, remove the foil, and continue roasting for another **15-20 minutes**, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork. The outer edges should be crispy, and the inside should be soft and cooked through.
#### 4. **Make the Butter Sauce**:
While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt **unsalted butter** over medium heat. Add the **minced garlic** and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic is fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the **fresh parsley**, **lemon zest**, and **Parmesan cheese** (if using). Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary.
#### 5. **Serve**:
Once the cauliflower is perfectly roasted, remove it from the oven. Place the cauliflower on a serving platter and drizzle the prepared **butter sauce** generously over the top. Garnish with additional parsley if desired. For an extra touch, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cauliflower to add a burst of citrusy brightness.
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### **Tips for Perfecting Your Whole Roasted Cauliflower:**
– **Roasting Time**: The roasting time can vary depending on the size of the cauliflower. Larger heads may require a little longer to cook, so check the tenderness with a fork before removing from the oven.
– **Flavor Variations**: Feel free to experiment with the seasoning. Try adding a pinch of **cumin**, **turmeric**, or **chili flakes** for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs like **thyme** or **rosemary** can also enhance the taste.
– **Butter Sauce Variations**: You can add a bit of **honey** to the butter sauce for a sweet and savory twist. For a more decadent version, try adding a splash of **heavy cream** or **cream cheese** to make the sauce extra creamy.
– **Make It Vegan**: To make this dish vegan, simply swap the butter for **vegan butter** or **olive oil**. Skip the Parmesan cheese or opt for a vegan cheese alternative.
– **Serve as a Main or Side**: This roasted cauliflower works well as a hearty side dish for meats like roasted chicken or steak, but it can also serve as a main vegetarian dish when paired with a simple grain like quinoa or couscous.
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### **Why This Recipe is a Must-Try:**
**Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Butter Sauce** is an easy yet impressive dish that takes a simple vegetable and elevates it to something extraordinary. With its crispy exterior, tender interior, and rich, flavorful butter sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast. It’s the kind of dish that looks complicated but is incredibly simple to make, and the results are always stunning.
Whether you’re a cauliflower lover or a first-timer, this roasted cauliflower recipe is sure to become a new favorite. **Give it a try and watch it disappear from the table in no time!**
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