Roasted cauliflower offers a delightful twist to your usual vegetable recipes. Dressed in a savory ajvar dressing, this dish becomes a flavor-packed side that is perfect for any meal. With a simple combination of ingredients, this roasted cauliflower with ajvar dressing recipe is sure to impress both family and friends.
Photos of Roasted Cauliflower with Ajvar Dressing Recipe
An ingredient in this recipe that you may not commonly find in your pantry is Ajvar. This is a delicious roasted red pepper and eggplant relish that originates from the Balkans. You can typically find this in the international food aisle of your supermarket or at a specialty food store. It imparts a unique, tangy flavor to our dressing.
Ingredients for Roasted Cauliflower with Ajvar Dressing
Cauliflower: A versatile and hearty vegetable, perfect for roasting and absorbing flavors.
Extra virgin olive oil: Used for roasting the cauliflower and creating the dressings base.
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper: Basic seasoning for roasting and dressing.
Anchovy fillet: Adds a savory umami flavor to our ajvar dressing.
Garlic: Provides a robust flavor to the dressing.
Ajvar: A tangy and slightly spicy relish that makes our dressing unique.
Fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity to balance out the dressing.
Red wine vinegar: Enhances the tangy flavor in our dressing.
Flat-leaf parsley: Provides a fresh, herbal note to the dressing.
Pine nuts: Gives a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the finished dish.
One reader, Hallsy Hathaway says:
The roasted cauliflower with ajvar dressing recipe is a game-changer! The cauliflower turns out perfectly tender and the ajvar dressing adds a delightful kick. The combination of flavors is simply divine. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delicious and healthy dish.
Cooking Techniques for Roasted Cauliflower With Ajvar Dressing
How to roast cauliflower: Roast the cauliflower at 425 degrees F for 45 minutes, tossing halfway through, until tender and browned.
How to make ajvar dressing: Blend olive oil, anchovy, garlic, ajvar, lemon juice, and vinegar in a mini food processor, then add parsley and season with salt and pepper.
How to toast pine nuts: In a dry skillet, toast the pine nuts over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
How To Make Roasted Cauliflower with Ajvar Dressing
This delicious roasted cauliflower is served with a tasty and spicy ajvar dressing made of ajvar, lemon, red wine vinegar, topped with toasted pine nuts!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1headcauliflower
- ½cupextra virgin olive oil
- kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
- 1anchovy fillet
- 1clovegarlic
- 3tbspmild ajvar,or hot ajvar
- 1tbspfresh lemon juice
- 1tbspred wine vinegar
- 1tbspflat-leaf parsley,chopped
- 1½tbsppine nuts
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
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Heat a large rimmed baking sheet in the oven.
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In a bowl, toss the cauliflower with 3 tablespoons of oil, and season with salt and pepper.
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Spread the cauliflower on the hot baking sheet and roast for 45 minutes, tossing halfway through, until tender and browned.
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Meanwhile, heat the remaining 5 tablespoons of oil in a skillet.
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When the oil is hot, add the anchovy. cook over moderate heat until it begins to dissolve
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Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
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Remove the skillet from the heat. Let the oil cool for 5 minutes.
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In a mini food processor, blend the oil with the ajvar, lemon juice, and vinegar.
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Add the parsley and pulse to combine.
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Season the dressing with salt and pepper.
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Transfer the cauliflower to a platter.
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Drizzle with the dressing and sprinkle with the toasted pine nuts.
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Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Calories: 318.46kcal
- Fat: 31.25g
- Saturated Fat: 4.09g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 20.38g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.00g
- Carbohydrates: 9.87g
- Fiber: 3.01g
- Sugar: 2.80g
- Protein: 3.98g
- Cholesterol: 0.85mg
- Sodium: 432.31mg
- Calcium: 38.43mg
- Potassium: 447.68mg
- Iron: 1.08mg
- Vitamin A: 4.30µg
- Vitamin C: 67.82mg
Pro Tip for Making Roasted Cauliflower With Ajvar Dressing
When roasting cauliflower, it's important to ensure that the florets are cut into even sizes. This promotes even cooking and prevents smaller pieces from burning while larger pieces are still undercooked. Additionally, tossing the cauliflower in oil before roasting helps it to achieve a nice, golden brown color and enhances its flavor. Remember to toss the cauliflower halfway through the roasting process to ensure all sides get evenly browned.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Roasted Cauliflower With Ajvar Dressing
Prep ahead: Chop the cauliflower and make the dressing the day before. This will save time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cut cauliflower: If you're short on time, consider using pre-cut cauliflower to skip the chopping step.
Multi-task: While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the dressing to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Streamline cleanup: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup after roasting the cauliflower.
Organize ingredients: Before you start cooking, gather all the ingredients and tools needed to avoid last-minute searches.
Substitute Ingredients For Roasted Cauliflower with Ajvar Dressing Recipe
cauliflower - Substitute with broccoli: Broccoli has a similar texture and flavor profile to cauliflower, making it a suitable substitute for this recipe.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a good alternative for roasting the cauliflower.
anchovy fillet - Substitute with miso paste: Miso paste provides a savory, umami flavor similar to anchovies and can be used to add depth to the dressing.
mild ajvar - Substitute with roasted red pepper paste: Roasted red pepper paste offers a similar sweet and smoky flavor to ajvar and can be used as a substitute in the dressing.
red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a slightly fruity and tangy flavor similar to red wine vinegar, and can be used in the dressing.
flat-leaf parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can be used as a substitute for parsley, adding a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish.
pine nuts - Substitute with sliced almonds: Sliced almonds can provide a similar nutty crunch and flavor to pine nuts in this recipe.
Presentation Tips for Roasted Cauliflower With Ajvar Dressing
Elevate the cauliflower: Arrange the roasted cauliflower in a visually appealing manner on the platter, ensuring each piece is showcased beautifully.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant elements such as fresh herbs or edible flowers to add a pop of color to the dish, creating a visually stunning presentation.
Focus on balance: Ensure a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, with the ajvar dressing delicately drizzled over the cauliflower to enhance the overall taste experience.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the placement of the toasted pine nuts, strategically positioning them to add a delightful crunch to each bite.
Highlight the dressing: Use a small spoon to carefully drizzle the ajvar dressing over the cauliflower, creating an artistic and appetizing design on the platter.
Incorporate elegance: Choose a sophisticated serving platter that complements the colors of the dish, adding a touch of elegance to the overall presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the beauty of simplicity by allowing some empty space on the platter, drawing attention to the exquisite arrangement of the roasted cauliflower.
Add a finishing touch: Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley, adding a final touch of freshness and visual appeal to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe
- Large rimmed baking sheet: This is a large, flat metal sheet with raised edges, designed to hold food while it is being baked in the oven. It allows for even heat distribution and prevents juices from spilling over.
- Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It typically has a long handle and sloped sides, making it ideal for sautéing and shallow frying.
- Mini food processor: A mini food processor is a small kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients. It is perfect for making dressings, sauces, and small batches of food.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for This Recipe
To store leftover roasted cauliflower, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
The ajvar dressing can be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Give it a good stir before drizzling over the cauliflower when reheating.
To freeze the roasted cauliflower, place the cooled florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Transfer the frozen cauliflower to a freezer-safe bag or container, label with the date, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When ready to enjoy the frozen cauliflower, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the frozen florets on a baking sheet. Roast for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Drizzle with the reserved ajvar dressing and serve immediately.
It's not recommended to freeze the ajvar dressing, as the texture and flavor may change upon thawing. It's best to prepare the dressing fresh when needed.
How To Reheat Leftover Roasted Cauliflower With Ajvar Dressing
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover roasted cauliflower on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little extra olive oil to prevent it from drying out. Cover the baking sheet with foil and reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to allow the cauliflower to crisp up further.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the roasted cauliflower in the microwave. Place the cauliflower in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the cauliflower, as it can become mushy.
If you have a bit more time, you can reheat the roasted cauliflower in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cauliflower and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
To reheat the ajvar dressing, simply place it in a small saucepan over low heat and stir until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave the dressing in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-60 seconds, stirring halfway through.
Once the roasted cauliflower and ajvar dressing are reheated, drizzle the warm dressing over the cauliflower and sprinkle with some freshly toasted pine nuts for added crunch and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious leftover meal!
Interesting Fact About Roasted Cauliflower With Ajvar Dressing
Ajvar is a popular condiment in the Balkans, made from red bell peppers and oil. It adds a unique and flavorful twist to the traditional roasted cauliflower dish.
Budget-Friendly Roasted Cauliflower With Ajvar Dressing
This roasted cauliflower with ajvar dressing recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, cauliflower, is budget-friendly and packed with nutrients. The additional components like olive oil, anchovy, and pine nuts are used in moderate quantities, making this recipe affordable. The dressing enhances the flavor, adding value to the dish. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10. This recipe earns a solid 9/10 for its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious taste.
Is This Roasted Cauliflower Recipe Healthy?
The roasted cauliflower with ajvar dressing recipe is a relatively healthy dish with some room for improvement. Here's why:
Healthy aspects:
- Cauliflower is a nutrient-dense vegetable, low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins (C, K, B6), and minerals (folate, potassium).
- Olive oil is a healthy fat source, rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
- Garlic and anchovy provide flavor and some beneficial nutrients.
- Pine nuts offer healthy fats, protein, and minerals.
Less healthy aspects:
- The recipe uses a significant amount of olive oil, which, while healthy, is still high in calories.
- Ajvar, depending on the brand or recipe, may contain added sugars or preservatives.
- The dish lacks a significant protein source, which could be addressed by adding legumes or lean meats.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the dressing, or use a combination of olive oil and a lighter option like vegetable broth.
- Choose a high-quality ajvar with minimal added sugars and preservatives, or make your own using roasted red peppers and eggplant.
- Add a source of lean protein to the dish, such as roasted chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu, to make it more balanced and satiating.
- Increase the variety of vegetables by adding roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions to the cauliflower mix.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, like smoked paprika or cumin, to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive oil or salt.
Editor's Opinion on This Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
The combination of roasted cauliflower and ajvar dressing creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The cauliflower's caramelized edges and tender interior provide a delightful contrast, while the ajvar dressing adds a savory, tangy kick. The addition of pine nuts brings a satisfying crunch to each bite. This recipe showcases the versatility of cauliflower and elevates it to a gourmet level. It's a delightful dish that is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
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Why trust this Roasted Cauliflower with Ajvar Dressing Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of roasted cauliflower with a flavorful ajvar dressing. The use of extra virgin olive oil and the perfect balance of mild ajvar with a hint of fresh lemon juice and red wine vinegar creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The addition of anchovy fillet and garlic infuses a depth of umami, while the toasted pine nuts add a satisfying crunch. With meticulous attention to detail and a focus on quality ingredients, this recipe promises a memorable dining experience.
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