Description
A delicious and healthy recipe for Smoked Paprika Roasted Cauliflower and Zucchini, perfect as a side dish or a main vegetarian meal.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds or half-moons
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp melted butter (optional, for extra richness)
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Optional garnishes: red pepper flakes, toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds, fresh parsley, extra grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower and zucchini. Drizzle with the olive oil and melted butter. Sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Toss until the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and caramelized and the zucchini is lightly browned.
- Remove from the oven. Sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese while the vegetables are still hot. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately with grilled chicken, roast beef, pork tenderloin, baked salmon, steak, or rice/quinoa.
Notes
- For a vegan option, omit the melted butter and Parmesan cheese.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste.
- This dish pairs well with a variety of proteins or can be enjoyed on its own.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg