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Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower: A Bold and Flavorful Plant-Based Dish


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  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Crispy roasted cauliflower tossed in a sticky, bold sweet and spicy sauce. This easy and healthy vegetarian dish works perfectly as a side, snack, or light main. It’s packed with flavor, gluten-free friendly, and easily made vegan.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Cauliflower:

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:

  • ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

  • 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water


Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Toss well to coat.

  • Spread the seasoned cauliflower evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway, until edges are crispy and golden brown.

  • While the cauliflower roasts, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

  • Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water). Cook until the sauce thickens, about 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat.

  • Once cauliflower is roasted, transfer to a large bowl. Pour the sauce over and toss gently until the cauliflower is evenly coated.

  • Serve hot. Optional: garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.

Notes

  • To make this recipe vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey.

  • Use tamari or coconut aminos to make it gluten-free.

  • Adjust the amount of sriracha to match your spice preference.

  • Add extra roasted veggies or serve over rice for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired