Mediterranean Maple Sriracha Cauliflower Bliss
This dish takes simple roasted cauliflower to a new level with a sweet and spicy glaze of maple syrup and Sriracha. The garlic and onion powder add depth, while olive oil helps achieve golden, caramelized edges. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon brighten it up, giving it a Mediterranean lift. It works as a bold side dish, light main, or even a party appetizer.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp maple syrup
1–2 tbsp Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Set oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Cauliflower:
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, maple syrup, Sriracha, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add cauliflower florets and toss until evenly coated.
Roast:
Spread cauliflower in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized on the edges.
Garnish & Serve:
Transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Tips
Even Cooking: Cut cauliflower florets into similar sizes so they roast evenly.
Extra Crispiness: Roast on a metal baking sheet without parchment for more direct heat contact, but keep an eye to prevent burning.
Flavor Adjustment: Taste the glaze before tossing—add more maple for sweetness or more Sriracha for heat.
Don’t Overcrowd: Spread florets in a single layer so they roast instead of steaming.
Serving Suggestion: This pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or over a bed of couscous.
Variations
Mediterranean Herb Twist: Add a sprinkle of dried oregano or thyme before roasting for a herbal lift.
Nutty Finish: Toss with toasted pine nuts or almonds after roasting for added crunch.
Smoky Kick: Swap Sriracha for harissa paste or add a pinch of smoked paprika.
Glaze Alternative: Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
Low-Oil Version: Reduce olive oil to 1 tablespoon and add a splash of water to the glaze to keep the cauliflower from drying out.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this in an air fryer?
A: Yes. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Q: Is it very spicy?
A: With 1 tablespoon of Sriracha, it’s mildly spicy. You can reduce or increase the amount to match your heat preference.
Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower?
A: You can, but thaw and pat dry first to avoid excess moisture that can prevent crisping.
Q: How can I make it oil-free?
A: Replace olive oil with vegetable broth in the glaze, though the cauliflower won’t get quite as caramelized.
Q: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
A: You can roast the cauliflower ahead and reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 minutes to restore crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
(per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~130
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 200mg
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 8g
(Values are approximate and will vary depending on exact ingredients used.)
Final Conclusion
Mediterranean Maple Sriracha Cauliflower Bliss is a simple yet flavor-packed side that combines sweetness, spice, and roasted nuttiness in every bite. The maple syrup caramelizes beautifully in the oven, while the Sriracha adds just the right amount of heat. Fresh parsley and lemon brighten the dish, making it versatile enough to pair with Mediterranean mains or serve as a stand-alone vegetarian star.