Roasted Cauliflower with Feta Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

This delicious roasted cauliflower recipe with feta cheese is a simple yet flavorful dish that's perfect as a side or light snack. With a mix of herbs, olive oil, and tangy lemon juice, it makes for a satisfying bite.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon freeze-dried dill
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 ounces crumbled feta cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425F (220C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dill, oregano, salt, garlic powder, and pepper.
3. Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss them until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. Let the cauliflower sit for 2 minutes, then toss again to ensure all pieces are well-seasoned.
4. Spread the seasoned cauliflower out in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, tossing the cauliflower halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and tenderness.
6. Remove from the oven and top with crumbled feta cheese. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 74
• Total Fat: 5g (7% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 2g (8% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 6mg (2% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 121mg (5% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 5g (2% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (9% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 3g (6% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 47mg (52% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 55mg (4% Daily Value)
• Iron: 0mg (3% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 160mg (3% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Roasted Cauliflower with Feta is a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the natural sweetness of cauliflower paired with the tangy creaminess of feta cheese. This dish is not only a delicious side but also a healthy and vibrant addition to any meal. Lets explore its rich history, regional nuances, and how it stands apart from other vegetable dishes.

Origin and History

Cauliflower, a member of the brassica family, has been cultivated since the Mediterranean region's ancient times, with evidence of its cultivation dating back to the 6th century BC in ancient Greece. However, the pairing of cauliflower with feta cheese is a more modern concept, originating from the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, where cauliflower is a common vegetable, and feta cheese is a staple in many dishes. The concept of roasting cauliflower with seasonings like olive oil, lemon, and herbs before finishing with feta cheese became popular as a contemporary way to enjoy this vegetable, thanks to its easy preparation and rich flavor profile. The dish has become a favorite for those seeking a nutritious and satisfying vegetable side dish or a light meal.

Regional Variations

The dish reflects the culinary traditions of the Mediterranean, particularly Greece and Turkey, where roasted vegetables like cauliflower are often paired with cheese, olive oil, and fresh herbs. While feta cheese is central to this dish, variations can include swapping it out for other cheeses, such as ricotta or goat cheese, depending on regional preferences or availability. In some Middle Eastern countries, this recipe might be enhanced with spices such as cumin or paprika, adding an extra layer of complexity to the dish's flavor.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Roasted cauliflower is a versatile dish that can be prepared in many ways, but the addition of feta cheese sets this recipe apart. Unlike cauliflower gratins or stews, which often involve creamy sauces or longer cooking times, this recipe celebrates the vegetable's natural texture and flavor. The roasting process caramelizes the cauliflower, bringing out its sweetness, while the feta cheese adds a tangy, salty contrast. This dish is a lighter, healthier alternative to heavier casseroles or side dishes that often rely on cream or butter.

Where Its Typically Served

Roasted Cauliflower with Feta is commonly served as a side dish at family meals or gatherings, especially during the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired feasts. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a larger vegetarian spread. It is also a great option for a light lunch when paired with a fresh salad. In many Mediterranean restaurants, it can be found on menus as an appetizer or a mezze platter, enjoyed with pita bread and a dollop of yogurt or hummus on the side.

Fun Facts

• Cauliflower is not only delicious but also highly nutritious, offering a rich source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Feta cheese, originally from Greece, is made from sheeps milk or a mixture of sheeps and goats milk, providing a distinctively crumbly texture and salty flavor.
• Roasting vegetables like cauliflower has gained popularity in recent years as a healthy cooking method, as it brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables while reducing the need for added fats.
• This dish is a great example of how simple ingredients, such as olive oil, lemon, and herbs, can elevate the flavor of any vegetable.

Whether you're looking for a healthy side dish or simply a new way to enjoy cauliflower, this roasted cauliflower with feta is sure to impress with its unique combination of flavors. Its easy to make, and the result is a satisfying and vibrant dish that embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

FAQ about Roasted Cauliflower with Feta Recipe

Comments