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
- Preheat the Oven – Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even roasting.
- Prepare Cauliflower Florets – Cut the cauliflower into evenly sized florets. This ensures even cooking and perfect texture in every bite.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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