Skip to main content

Parmesan-Roasted Cauliflower

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This Parmesan-roasted cauliflower is a simple yet sophisticated vegetarian side dish that transforms a humble vegetable into something truly special. By roasting the florets at a high temperature with woody thyme and whole garlic cloves, the cauliflower develops a deep, nutty sweetness and crisp edges. The addition of sharp, salty Parmesan in the final stages of cooking creates a savoury crust that is impossible to resist.

Perfect for a Sunday roast or as a light midweek accompaniment, this dish is naturally gluten-free and packed with flavour. The unpeeled garlic cloves become soft and sweet in the oven, providing a mellow fragrance that complements the caramelised onions. It is a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire that highlights how effective roasting can be for enhancing seasonal produce.

In this article:

Video picks

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Parmesan-Roasted Cauliflower

  • 1 head cauliflower

  • 1 sliced medium onion

  • 4 thyme sprigs

  • 4 unpeeled garlic cloves

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

  • Kosher salt

  • Freshly ground black pepper

  • 80g grated Parmesan

How to make Parmesan-Roasted Cauliflower

Back to contents

Preheat oven to 218°C. Cut 1 head cauliflower into florets; toss on a large rimmed baking sheet with 1 sliced medium onion, 4 thyme sprigs, 4 unpeeled garlic cloves, and 3 tablespoons olive oil; season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Roast, tossing occasionally, until almost tender, 35-40 minutes. Sprinkle with 80g grated Parmesan, toss to combine, and roast until cauliflower is tender, 10-12 minutes longer.

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.

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
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.