Description
A flavorful and healthy Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower recipe featuring tender roasted florets coated in a zesty hot sauce and honey glaze, perfect as a vegan and gluten-free side dish or appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat Oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup.
- Prepare Sauce. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, hot sauce, honey (or maple syrup), soy sauce (or tamari), garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Coat Cauliflower. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the spicy-sweet sauce mixture.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet. Spread the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to promote even cooking and crisping.
- Bake. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Halfway through cooking, flip the florets to ensure even browning and tender edges.
- Optional Broil. For extra crispy edges, optionally broil the cauliflower for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve and Garnish. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately as a side dish, appetizer, or meatless main course.
Notes
- Adjust the spiciness level by adding more or less hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- This baked cauliflower pairs wonderfully with rice bowls, used in wraps, or served alongside grilled proteins.
- Make sure to spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer for best texture and roasting results.
- Substitute honey with maple syrup to keep the recipe vegan.
- Using tamari instead of soy sauce makes this recipe gluten-free.
