Print

Cheesy Vegan Roasted Cauliflower Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 12 reviews

This ‘Cheesy’ Vegan Roasted Cauliflower recipe offers a flavorful, nutrient-packed side dish that mimics cheesy richness using nutritional yeast and warming spices. Roasted to golden-brown perfection, the cauliflower is tender with a crispy edge, enhanced by paprika and a subtle cayenne kick. It’s an easy, wholesome vegan recipe perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

Cauliflower and Seasoning

  • 1 large head cauliflower, chopped into florets
  • 3 Tbsp olive oil
  • 3 Tbsp nutritional yeast
  • ½ tsp sea salt (plus extra to taste)
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Pinch cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 415°F (about 213°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
  2. Toss Cauliflower with Seasonings: Place the chopped cauliflower florets into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle nutritional yeast, sea salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper over the florets. Use your hands to thoroughly toss and coat every piece evenly in the seasoning mixture.
  3. Roast the Cauliflower: Spread the seasoned cauliflower evenly over the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the center rack of the oven for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking to ensure even roasting. The cauliflower should develop a golden-brown color and become tender.
  4. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired by adding more sea salt or nutritional yeast. For extra texture and flavor, serve alongside your favorite entrée with a garnish of chopped pistachios, pine nuts, walnuts, or pecans.

Notes

  • For a nuttier flavor, try adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts just before serving.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity to control the heat level or omit if you prefer no spice.
  • Use fresh nutritional yeast for best flavor and potency.
  • To make the cauliflower extra crispy, spread the florets in a single layer without overcrowding the pan.
  • This recipe pairs well with a variety of main dishes like grilled tofu, vegan burgers, or roasted plantains.