Description
Golden-Brown Garlic Mushrooms and Roasted Cauliflower
Ingredients
For the Vegetables:
1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 cups mushrooms (button or cremini), cleaned and halved
1 medium onion, diced
For the Marinade:
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Marinate Vegetables:
In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Toss the cauliflower florets, mushrooms, and diced onion in the marinade until evenly coated.
Roast:
Spread the vegetables evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender and the mushrooms are caramelized.
Serve:
Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve hot as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat & Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is crucial for caramelization. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 3 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper until it forms a cohesive, fragrant mixture.
3. Coat the Vegetables: Add the cauliflower florets, halved mushrooms, and diced onion to the bowl. Use your hands or a large spoon to toss and massage the marinade into every piece, ensuring an even, glossy coat.
4. Arrange & Roast: Spread the vegetables in a single, uncrowded layer on your baking sheet. Crowding leads to steaming. Roast for 20-25 minutes, pausing at the 12-minute mark to flip and stir the vegetables for all-around browning.
5. Garnish & Serve: Once golden-brown and tender, transfer the vegetables to a platter. Immediately garnish with fresh chopped parsley to add a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be the star or a supporting player. Serve it as a hearty vegetarian main over quinoa or creamy polenta. It makes an excellent side for grilled chicken, steak, or roasted salmon. For a flavor boost, finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
How-to Summary
Cut cauliflower and mushrooms. Whisk oil, garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper into a marinade. Toss vegetables to coat evenly. Roast at 425°F on a single layer for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely. Broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots work well. Adjust roasting times for denser veggies.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F oven to restore crispness.
My vegetables are soggy. What happened? Sogginess is usually from overcrowding the pan. Ensure pieces are in a single layer with space between them for proper air circulation.
Can I make this oil-free? Yes, for a lower-fat version, substitute the olive oil with an equal amount of vegetable broth. Note that browning will be less pronounced.
Is fresh thyme necessary? Dried thyme works perfectly. Use half the amount if substituting dried for fresh, as dried herbs are more potent.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Neglecting to Preheat: Putting vegetables in a cold oven prevents proper searing and caramelization.
- Overcrowding the Pan: This steams the vegetables instead of roasting them. Use two sheets if necessary.
- Skipping the Flip: Not stirring halfway through results in uneven cooking and browning.
- Underseasoning the Marinade: Be generous with salt and pepper, as it seasons the entire dish.
Conclusion
This recipe for Golden-Brown Garlic Mushrooms and Roasted Cauliflower is a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. The high-heat roasting technique unlocks natural sweetness and delivers a satisfying texture. It’s a reliable, healthy, and delicious dish that deserves a regular spot in your meal rotation. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!