Description
These Roasted Cauliflower Bites with a refreshing Mint Dip are a perfect healthy and flavorful appetizer or snack. The cauliflower florets are seasoned with a blend of spices and roasted to a crispy golden brown in the oven. Served alongside a creamy and tangy mint-infused dip, this recipe offers a delightful combination of smoky, savory, and fresh flavors that will please any crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
Cauliflower Bites
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 dashes Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Mint Dip
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and position the oven rack in the top third of the oven. Line a baking sheet with foil to ensure easy cleanup after roasting.
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Cut the large head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Place the florets in a large Ziploc bag. Add olive oil and all seasoning ingredients including garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag and shake it well to evenly coat all florets with the oil and spices.
- Arrange for Roasting: Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets evenly in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Spacing the florets apart helps them roast evenly and become crispy.
- Roast the Cauliflower: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the cauliflower for 20 minutes until tender and golden brown around the edges.
- Prepare the Mint Dip: While the cauliflower roasts, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, chopped mint, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix well to create a creamy and flavorful dip, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve: Once the cauliflower bites are roasted, transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle extra fresh mint over the bites for garnish if desired. Serve immediately with the chilled mint dip for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can roast the cauliflower for a few minutes longer but keep an eye to prevent burning.
- Feel free to adjust the spice blend to suit your heat preference by reducing or omitting chili powder.
- The dip can be made a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld even more.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted to vegan by substituting vegan mayo and sour cream alternatives.
- Using fresh mint in both the dip and as a garnish adds a fresh, bright flavor.
