Mediterranean Miso Garlic Roasted Cauliflower
This Mediterranean Miso Garlic Roasted Cauliflower brings together the umami-rich depth of white miso with zesty Mediterranean flavors like garlic, lemon, and olive oil. Roasting the cauliflower until golden and crispy enhances its natural sweetness and makes this dish an irresistible side or plant-based main. It’s bold, satisfying, and packed with nutritious goodness.
Total Time: 35 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tbsp white miso paste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1–2 tbsp water, to loosen miso mixture if needed
Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Optional toppings: tahini drizzle, pine nuts, or pomegranate seeds
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make the Miso Garlic Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, and a splash of water until smooth and pourable.
Toss the Cauliflower:
Place the cauliflower florets in a large bowl. Pour the miso mixture over them and toss very well until evenly coated.
Roast:
Spread the coated cauliflower onto the baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 22–25 minutes, flipping once halfway, until golden brown and crisp on the edges.
Finish & Serve:
Transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs and any optional toppings like a drizzle of tahini, toasted pine nuts, or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds.
Tips
Roasting Tips:
Dry the cauliflower well after washing — moisture prevents crisping.
Don’t overcrowd the pan — use two baking sheets if needed to ensure even roasting and golden edges.
Flip halfway through to get an even char on both sides of the florets.
Miso Sauce Tips:
White (shiro) miso is ideal for a subtle, slightly sweet flavor. Avoid red miso unless you prefer a stronger taste.
Add water slowly to the marinade — just enough to make it spreadable but not runny.
For a smoother coating, use a blender or mini food processor to combine miso with oil and garlic.
Serving Tips:
Serve immediately for best texture — roasted cauliflower can lose crispness as it cools.
Can be served warm or room temperature — perfect for mezze platters or grain bowls.
Variations
Add Cheese (Optional for Extra Depth):
Sprinkle crumbled feta or grated Parmesan during the last 5 minutes of baking for a salty, savory finish.
Spicy Version:
Add 1 tsp harissa paste, Aleppo pepper, or a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade for a gentle Mediterranean heat.
Citrus Twist:
Add lemon zest to the marinade or squeeze extra fresh lemon over the finished dish for brightness.
Herb Boost:
Add chopped fresh dill, parsley, mint, or basil right before serving for a pop of fresh flavor.
Make it a Meal:
Serve over a bed of quinoa, couscous, or lentils with a dollop of hummus or tahini yogurt sauce.
Combine with roasted chickpeas or grilled halloumi for a protein-packed vegetarian plate.
Use Other Veggies:
Try the same miso-garlic marinade on broccoli, Brussels sprouts, eggplant, or carrots.
Q&A
Q: Can I use another type of miso instead of white miso?
A: Yes — red or yellow miso can be used, but they have stronger, saltier flavors. White (shiro) miso is best for a balanced, mellow taste in Mediterranean-style dishes.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can roast the cauliflower up to 1 day in advance and reheat in the oven or air fryer. However, it’s crispiest and most flavorful fresh from the oven.
Q: Is this dish vegan and gluten-free?
A: Yes — it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free as long as your miso paste is certified gluten-free (some contain barley).
Q: Can I air fry instead of oven roast?
A: Definitely. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crisp.
Q: What can I serve this with?
A: It pairs well with grilled proteins, hummus, Mediterranean grain bowls, tahini dressing, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Facts
Estimated values — may vary slightly based on exact ingredients used.
Calories: 130
Protein: 3g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 3g
Sodium: 380mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Miso Garlic Roasted Cauliflower is a vibrant and wholesome side dish that delivers both bold flavor and nourishing ingredients. The umami depth of miso, the richness of olive oil, and the brightness of lemon and garlic come together to transform humble cauliflower into a show-stopping star. Whether served as part of a mezze spread, in a grain bowl, or alongside grilled proteins, this recipe is easy to prepare, versatile, and packed with plant-powered goodness.