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Blueberry Buttermilk Pancake Casserole Recipe

Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower


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5 from 141 reviews

  • Author: Mary & Susan
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is a deliciously healthy main-course or side dish featuring tender cauliflower florets coated in a sticky honey-sriracha glaze, then roasted until golden and caramelized. With flavors that are equal parts savory, spicy, and sweet, it’s the perfect plant-based recipe for weeknight dinners or as a standout dish at gatherings. Finished with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds, it brings vibrant color and bold taste to the table—while remaining quick, easy, and naturally gluten-free.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Sweet and Spicy Glaze

  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven – Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even roasting.
  2. Prepare Cauliflower Florets – Cut the cauliflower into evenly sized florets. This ensures even cooking and perfect texture in every bite.
  3. Toss with Olive Oil, Salt & Pepper – In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
  4. Mix the Sweet and Spicy Glaze – In a separate small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground cumin. Stir until completely smooth and blended.
  5. Coat Cauliflower with Glaze – Pour the glaze over the cauliflower in the large bowl. Toss thoroughly so each floret is evenly coated with the sweet and spicy mixture.
  6. Arrange on Baking Sheet – Spread the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each piece to promote crisping.
  7. Bake – Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Flip the florets halfway through baking to ensure even caramelization and browning. The cauliflower is done when the edges are golden and crispy, and the inside is tender.
  8. Garnish and Serve – Remove the tray from the oven. Immediately sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro and sesame seeds, if using. Serve hot and enjoy your sweet and spicy baked cauliflower!

Notes

  • To make this vegan, substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for honey.
  • Add extra sriracha for a spicier kick, or reduce for a milder flavor.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
  • Try sprinkling with chopped peanuts for extra crunch and flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Side-dishes
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
  • Calories: 115
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 355mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg