Spicy Roasted Purple Cauliflower

I always see the big head of purple cauliflower at the grocery store and think it looks so bright and pretty. The purple calls out to me and I just want to buy it, but the truth is I'm not crazy in love with cauliflower. And if I'm being completely honest with you, if you already don't like cauliflower, you probably won't like this either. For me this was just about figuring out a new way to eat vegetables. I really need that variety in my diet, especially when it comes to something like cauliflower.

I love Asian flavors and the spice from the sriracha really kicks things up a notch here. Obviously the heat level can be changed according to your tastes. Another benefit to this dish is that it can be Whole30 compliant if you swap out Coconut Aminos for the soy sauce and the sriracha with cayenne or red pepper flakes. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural flavors and it's by far the easiest way to cook them. This is a win win combo for me and could also work great on other vegetables like broccoli or carrots.

{Serves 2-4 as a side}

INGREDIENTS 

1 head purple cauliflower
1/4 cup neutral oil
1 tsp toasted sesame oil
2 tsp dark soy sauce (or coconut aminos) 
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp sriracha 
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

1) In a small bowl, mix together all ingredients except the cauliflower. Whisk thoroughly to make sure everything is combined.

2) Chop cauliflower into florets and wash if need be.

3) Place cauliflower pieces in a ziploc bag and pour over the seasoning mixture. Close bag and move all around to make sure every piece gets coated. 

4) Let the cauliflower sit for about 15 minutes. In the meantime, preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. 

5) Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. Remove cauliflower pieces from the bag and shake off excess. Spread pieces out on the baking sheet and don't crowd them too close or they will steam instead of roast.

6) Roast for 20 minutes until tender and the edges are crispy. If desired crispiness is not reached during the initial roasting, broil for a few minutes extra.

7) Serve cauliflower as a side. Squirt with lime or lemon juice and top with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.