Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is a delicious and healthy side dish that combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with a spicy glaze. This dish is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and makes for a great appetizer or side dish for any meal!

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Making Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), soy sauce, sriracha, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Coat Cauliflower: Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 3: Bake the Cauliflower

1. Spread on Baking Sheet: Transfer the coated cauliflower florets to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish: Once baked, remove the cauliflower from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm as a side dish or appetizer. Enjoy your Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	120
Protein	3g
Fat	7g
Carbohydrates	12g
Sugar	5g

Tips for Customization

• Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of sriracha to suit your taste preferences; add more for extra heat or reduce for a milder flavor.
• Add Other Vegetables: Mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for a colorful medley.
• Make it Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey to keep the dish vegan-friendly.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover baked cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and packed with bold flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at your table!

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cauliflower and coat it in the sauce ahead of time, then bake it just before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use tamari instead of soy sauce, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free.