Looking to spice up your dinner routine with a stunning vegetarian centerpiece? This Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Spicy Sriracha Honey Glaze is an irresistible mix of tender, charred edges and bold, tangy flavor. It’s a show-stopping dish that’s easy to prepare, packed with nutrition, and guaranteed to turn heads at any meal.
Ingredients for Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Spicy Sriracha Honey Glaze
Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this spicy, sticky, and utterly satisfying roasted cauliflower:
For the Roasted Cauliflower:
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1 large head of cauliflower
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
For the Spicy Sriracha Honey Glaze:
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3 tablespoons honey
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2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
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1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
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2 teaspoons sesame oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Optional Garnishes:
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Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
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Toasted sesame seeds
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Lime wedges for serving
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To make this recipe smooth and stress-free, prepare the following kitchen tools:
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Large pot or Dutch oven (for blanching the cauliflower)
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Roasting tray or baking sheet
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Parchment paper or foil (for easy cleanup)
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Small saucepan (for the glaze)
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Basting brush or spoon
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Knife and cutting board
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Mixing bowl
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Whisk or spoon for stirring
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Trim the Cauliflower
Remove the green outer leaves and carefully trim the stem so the cauliflower can sit flat. Be sure not to cut too deeply into the core so it stays whole and intact.
Step 3: Parboil the Cauliflower
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently place the whole cauliflower into the pot and boil for 6–8 minutes to slightly tenderize. This step ensures an even roast and a softer interior.
Remove from water and let drain. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Step 4: Roast the Cauliflower
Place the cauliflower on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown with crispy edges.
Step 5: Prepare the Spicy Sriracha Honey Glaze
While the cauliflower is roasting, combine honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
Step 6: Glaze and Roast Again
Remove the cauliflower from the oven and brush generously with the glaze. Return it to the oven for another 10–15 minutes, basting with glaze once more halfway through, until caramelized and sticky.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, let the cauliflower rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh herbs, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve whole for a dramatic presentation, or slice into wedges.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Roasted Cauliflower
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Adjust spice to your liking: Add more or less Sriracha depending on your heat tolerance. You can even stir in a bit of chili paste or flakes for an extra kick.
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Get creative with glaze: Try swapping honey for maple syrup for a vegan version. Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
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Pre-roast for softness: Boiling the cauliflower first ensures the inside cooks through without burning the outside.
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Presentation matters: Garnish with vibrant green herbs and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a beautiful color contrast.
Nutritional Value (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)
Note: Values may vary depending on size of cauliflower and exact ingredients used.
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Calories: ~160 kcal
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Protein: 4g
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Fat: 6g
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Carbohydrates: 22g
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Fiber: 5g
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Sugars: 12g
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Vitamin C: 80% of Daily Value
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Calcium: 6% of Daily Value
This dish is low in fat, naturally gluten-free, and a great source of fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.
Why You Should Try This Whole Roasted Cauliflower
Whole Roasted Cauliflower has become a modern favorite among plant-based eaters and omnivores alike—and for good reason. It transforms a humble vegetable into a rich, flavorful centerpiece that’s both satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re preparing a vegetarian main course, a holiday side dish, or an eye-catching addition to your weekly meal prep, this spicy glazed version is sure to impress.
The combination of heat, sweetness, and umami in the Sriracha honey glaze delivers bold flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, healthy, and easy enough for weeknights.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried Whole Roasted Cauliflower, now’s the perfect time to start. This Spicy Sriracha Honey Glaze version is a flavor-packed twist that elevates the dish to new heights. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a stunning, healthy dish that everyone will remember.
Ready to roast? Add this show-stopper to your table and share the love—don’t forget to snap a picture and tag your culinary masterpiece online!
