A delicious and healthy side dish featuring golden sautéed cauliflower with a mix of herbs, almonds, and a hint of lemon.
A delicious and healthy side dish featuring golden sautéed cauliflower with a mix of herbs, almonds, and a hint of lemon.
Cauliflower, cored and sliced
0 lb
tablespoons
to taste
to taste
teaspoons
Garlic, grated or finely minced
teaspoons
Rosemary, freshly chopped
teaspoons
Flat Leaf Parsley, roughly chopped
cups
Lemon Zest, grated
teaspoons
Almonds, roasted salted, roughly chopped
cups
Red Fresno Chile, thinly sliced, for garnish (optional)
each
Lemon Wedges, for serving
each
1. Prepare Cauliflower
Quarter the cauliflower heads and remove the cores. Slice each quarter into 1/2-inch-thick pieces. Chop larger slices to ensure uniformity.
2. Sauté Cauliflower
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Once hot, add the cauliflower slices and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until browned, about 10-12 minutes, turning frequently.
3. Add Flavor
Sprinkle in crushed red pepper, garlic, rosemary, parsley, and lemon zest. Stir well to coat and cook for an additional minute. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Garnish and Present
Transfer the cauliflower to a serving dish. Top with chopped almonds and, if desired, garnish with sliced red Fresno chile. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Ensure your cauliflower florets are cut into similar-sized pieces for even roasting. A golden-brown caramelization is key for flavor, so don't overcrowd the baking sheet, which can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
The lemon juice and zest will brighten the dish and cut through the richness. Add it at the end to preserve its fresh, zesty flavor.
Toasting nuts is a pivotal step. It intensifies their flavor and adds crunch. Watch them closely as they can burn quickly. Use a skillet that distributes heat evenly for the best result.
When you cook the spices in the oil, you're blooming them. This helps to release their full range of flavors. Don't skip this step, and be careful not to burn the garlic or spices, as it can introduce bitterness.
The almonds add a necessary texture contrast. For an extra layer, you might also consider adding pomegranate seeds or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for additional crunch and visual appeal.
Comments (0)