Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Ranch
This Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Ranch recipe combines crispy, caramelized cauliflower florets with a rich, nutty tahini-infused ranch dressing. Easy to make with simple ingredients, it serves as a healthy, versatile side or snack packed with flavor and nutrition, perfect for balanced eating plans.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
For the Roasted Cauliflower
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Tahini Ranch Dressing
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt alternative
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or chives), finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Water, as needed to thin dressing
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash and cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Pat them dry thoroughly to ensure crispiness when roasted. Transfer them to a large bowl.
- Season and Roast: Toss the florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Make the Tahini Ranch Dressing: While the cauliflower roasts, whisk together tahini, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic or garlic powder, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add water a teaspoon at a time until you reach a smooth, creamy consistency perfect for drizzling.
- Combine and Serve: Once the cauliflower is beautifully golden and tender, allow it to cool slightly before drizzling the tahini ranch dressing on top. Garnish with additional herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for color and extra flavor.
Notes
- Dry Florets Thoroughly: Moisture on the cauliflower prevents roasting crispiness, so pat dry well.
- High Heat Roasting: Roasting at a high temperature helps caramelize sugars and develop flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Spread florets in a single layer to avoid steaming, which makes them soggy.
- Adjust Dressing Thickness: Thin the tahini ranch with more water or lemon juice for easier drizzling or keep thick for dipping.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Freshness in herbs really brightens the ranch, so skip dried if possible.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 2 mg
Keywords: roasted cauliflower, tahini ranch, healthy snack, vegan option, gluten free, side dish, easy recipe