Prepare to transform the humble cauliflower into a culinary masterpiece that will make even vegetable skeptics beg for seconds! This mouthwatering recipe combines the rich, velvety texture of roasted cauliflower with a luxurious goat cheese cream sauce that will transport your taste buds to a gourmet paradise. Whether you're looking for a show-stopping side dish or a light vegetarian main course, this creamy cauliflower creation promises to be the star of your dining table.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help roast the cauliflower and create a golden, caramelized exterior.
- Wash the cauliflower head thoroughly and cut it into uniform, bite-sized florets. Aim for pieces that are roughly 1-
- 5 inches in size to ensure even cooking.
- Place the cauliflower florets on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss the florets to ensure they are evenly coated with oil and seasoning.
- Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows each piece to roast properly and develop a nice golden color.
- Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking. Look for edges that are turning golden brown and crispy.
- While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the creamy goat cheese sauce. In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream and crumbled goat cheese over medium-low heat.
- Gently stir the cream and goat cheese until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Be careful not to let the mixture boil.
- Once the cauliflower is roasted, remove from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Pour the warm goat cheese cream sauce over the roasted cauliflower.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped thyme over the top of the dish for added aroma and flavor. The herbs will complement the creamy goat cheese beautifully.
- Serve immediately while the cauliflower is hot and the goat cheese sauce is creamy. This dish pairs wonderfully as a side or can be enjoyed as a light vegetarian main course.
Tips
- Choose a fresh, firm cauliflower with tight, white florets for the best roasting results.
- Use a large baking sheet to ensure the cauliflower roasts evenly and develops those delicious golden edges.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet - give each floret some breathing room to caramelize properly.
- Use low heat when melting the goat cheese to prevent separation and ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Fresh thyme is key - if you can't find fresh, dried thyme will work, but use half the amount.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a light sprinkle of garlic powder or red pepper flakes before roasting.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the optimal texture and temperature of the dish.
- This recipe is easily customizable - try adding toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
