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Roasted Cauliflower with Lemon Zest, Parsley, Capers, and Jalapeño

This vibrant roasted cauliflower with lemon, parsley, and capers is a refreshing departure from traditional heavy side dishes. By roasting the florets at a high temperature, they develop a deep, nutty caramelisation that contrasts beautifully with the sharp, salty punch of the capers and the zesty citrus finish. It is a light yet flavourful way to enjoy this versatile brassica, elevated by a hint of heat from the jalapeño.

As a naturally vegan dish, it serves as a sophisticated accompaniment to Mediterranean-style mains or as a standout component of a plant-based sharing spread. The combination of fresh herbs and zingy dressing makes it feel wonderfully bright, ensuring it works just as well for a midweek dinner as it does for a weekend lunch with friends.

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Ingredients for Roasted Cauliflower with Lemon Zest, Parsley, Capers, and Jalapeño

  • 1 head cauliflower, quartered, cored, and cut into bite-size florets

  • 3 to 60ml extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling

  • Salt and freshly cracked pepper

  • 1 lemon

  • 1 large handful fresh parsley (about 1/2 cup/25 g), roughly chopped

  • 1 tablespoon capers

  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and thinly sliced

  • Flaky sea salt, for serving

Preheat the oven to 218°C (220°C). Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with the oil, season generously with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Roast the cauliflower, tossing the florets halfway through, until they are deep golden and crispy, 30 to 35 minutes total.

While the cauliflower is roasting, use a vegetable peeler to peel 3 strips of zest from the lemon. Cut each strip crosswise into very thin slices. Cut the lemon in half, reserving one half and storing the other for another use.

Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving bowl. Top it with the parsley, capers, jalapeño, and sliced lemon zest. Squeeze the mixture with the lemon half and drizzle it with more oil. Toss to coat all of the ingredients, and sprinkle with a pinch or two of the flaky salt.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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UK recipe editors

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UK recipe editors

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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