Cauliflower Roasted With Mustard Feta And Garlic Recipe

As someone who thrives on culinary adventures, I can’t wait to share this vibrant roasted cauliflower dish that’s equal parts tangy, savory, and comforting—think of it as the spotlight stealer at your next dinner table gathering!

My favorite dish to create, full of nutrition and vibrancy, is cauliflower roasted with mustard, feta, and garlic. When combining basic ingredients like healthy cauliflower florets, with the trifecta of aromatic garlic, tangy feta, and lemon, I end up with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfectly healthy.

The next time you want a delicious side that takes less than an hour to prepare, reach for these lovely ingredients. Mouthing off about “a trio of flavor” doesn’t even do them justice.

Ingredients

• Cauliflower: A low-calorie, high-fiber vegetable, rich in vitamins C and K.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fat with antioxidants, adds rich flavor.
• Whole Grain Mustard: Adds tangy, spicy flavor, contains beneficial minerals.
• Garlic: Boosts immune system, adds aromatic depth.
• Feta Cheese: Adds creaminess, source of protein and calcium.
• Lemon Juice: Freshness and vitamin C, enhances flavors.
• Lemon Zest: Intensifies lemony aroma without extra acidity.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

How to Make this

1. Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light coating of olive oil.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the florets of cauliflower, extra virgin olive oil, whole grain mustard, and minced garlic. Toss until the ingredients are uniformly blended.

3. Spread the mixture of cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Place in the oven that has been preheated to 25-30 minutes. See that the oven is at the proper temperature first, of course, which is set to an even 400°F for this dish. Then, roast until the cauliflower is tender and golden brown, which should take about half an hour. If you think of it, or if you don’t want some of the cauliflower to be more cooked than the other parts, stir it around midway through the cooking time.

5. As the cauliflower roasts, combine the fresh lemon juice with the lemon zest in a small bowl to produce a lightning-fast dressing.

6. When the cauliflower has finished roasting, take it out of the oven. While the hot cauliflower is there, immediately drizzle over it the mixture of lemon juice and lemon zest.

7. While the cauliflower is still warm from roasting, scatter the feta cheese that has been crumbled over it.

8. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

9. Move the cauliflower, which has been roasted, to a serving dish.

10. If desired, you can add some chopped fresh parsley for a pretty garnish. Serve immediately. Enjoy the deliciousness of roasted cauliflower with mustard, feta, and garlic.

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper or pastry brush (for applying olive oil)
4. Large bowl
5. Small bowl
6. Cutting board
7. Knife
8. Garlic press or mincing tool
9. Measuring spoons
10. Mixing spoon or spatula
11. Zester or fine grater
12. Serving dish

FAQ

• Can I use regular mustard instead of whole grain mustard?
  Yes, you can substitute regular mustard, but whole grain mustard adds a unique texture and flavor profile that complements the roasted cauliflower well.
• Can I prepare this dish in advance?
  You can roast the cauliflower and prepare the mustard feta mix ahead of time. Combine and reheat before serving for best results.
• Is there a substitute for feta cheese?
  You can use goat cheese or ricotta salata as a substitute, though different cheeses will alter the taste and texture slightly.
• What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?
  Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.
• How do I make the dish vegan?
  Replace feta cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and ensure the mustard is vegan-friendly. Adjust other seasonings to taste.
• Can I use frozen cauliflower?
  Fresh cauliflower is preferred for the best texture when roasting, but you can use frozen cauliflower if thawed and thoroughly dried.
• What’s the best way to store leftovers?
  Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Cauliflower Roasted With Mustard Feta And Garlic Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Avocado oil or melted coconut oil can be used to replace olive oil, each offering a distinct flavor.
Mustard made from whole grains: A replacement could be Dijon mustard or spicy brown mustard.
Feta cheese: Substitute with goat cheese or ricotta for a creamier texture.
Lemon juice. Swap it with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar acidic punch.
Cilantro or basil are suitable alternatives for using an herbaceous touch in place of parsley.

Pro Tips

1. Roast Evenly Ensure that the cauliflower florets are roughly the same size when you cut them. This helps them cook evenly, preventing some pieces from burning while others remain undercooked.

2. Enhance Flavor with Toasted Garlic For a deeper garlic flavor, lightly toast your minced garlic in olive oil before adding it to the cauliflower mix. This will bring out a nutty flavor that enhances the dish.

3. Maximize Texture For extra crispy cauliflower, preheat the baking sheet in the oven before adding the cauliflower mixture. The hot surface will help create a crispier exterior.

4. Upgrade the Dressing Consider adding a teaspoon of honey to the lemon juice and zest mixture. This subtle sweetness can balance the tanginess of the lemon and the saltiness of the feta.

5. Experiment with Herbs While parsley is a classic choice, try garnishing with fresh dill or cilantro for a different flavor profile that pairs well with the mustard and feta.