Name: Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Grapes and Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp sea salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional); 1 ½ cups seedless red or black grapes, stems removed; 1 tbsp olive oil; ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp toasted pine nuts (optional); Zest of ½ lemon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Grapes and Feta is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The cauliflower is roasted to golden perfection, while the grapes become sweet and slightly caramelized in the oven. The creamy feta adds a tangy contrast, and the fresh parsley, toasted pine nuts, and lemon zest elevate the dish with vibrant flavors. This recipe not only looks stunning but also makes for a healthy, wholesome Mediterranean-inspired meal that can be enjoyed as a main or side dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cauliflower:

1 large head of cauliflower
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sea salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

For the Grapes:

1 ½ cups seedless red or black grapes, stems removed
1 tbsp olive oil

To Finish:

½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp toasted pine nuts (optional)
Zest of ½ lemon

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the cauliflower: Remove the leaves from the cauliflower and trim the stem end so the cauliflower sits flat, but keep the head intact.
Season the cauliflower: Place the cauliflower on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil and rub to coat evenly. Sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
Roast the cauliflower: Roast the cauliflower for 40 minutes, or until it starts to soften and turn golden.
Prepare the grapes: While the cauliflower is roasting, toss the grapes with 1 tbsp olive oil in a small bowl.
Add the grapes: After the cauliflower has roasted for 40 minutes, scatter the grapes around it on the baking sheet. Return the cauliflower and grapes to the oven and roast for another 15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and golden, and the grapes are blistered.
Finish the dish: Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving platter. Arrange the grapes around the cauliflower. Sprinkle with crumbled feta, fresh parsley, pine nuts (if using), and lemon zest.
Serve: Serve warm, cutting the cauliflower into wedges at the table.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Vegan version: Use plant-based feta or omit the cheese entirely for a vegan-friendly dish.
Nut substitutions: If you don’t have pine nuts, walnuts or almonds make great alternatives, adding a nice crunch.
Add a sweet drizzle: For extra sweetness, try drizzling a little honey or balsamic glaze over the finished dish.
Herb options: Try swapping fresh parsley with basil or mint for a different herbal flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the cauliflower and grapes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?

For best results, use fresh cauliflower. Frozen cauliflower may not hold up as well during the roasting process and could become mushy.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Yes, you can add other roasted vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers to enhance the dish and make it even more filling.

3. Can I prepare the cauliflower in advance?

While it’s best to serve this dish fresh, you can prepare the cauliflower up to the point of roasting and store it in the fridge for a day before finishing the recipe.

4. Can I make this recipe with other fruits besides grapes?

Yes, roasted pears or figs can also complement the cauliflower and feta, providing a sweet contrast in flavor.

5. How do I know when the cauliflower is fully roasted?

The cauliflower is done when it’s golden brown and tender. You can test it by inserting a fork or knife into the thickest part of the cauliflower to ensure it’s soft.

Conclusion

This Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Grapes and Feta is a beautiful and delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. The combination of roasted cauliflower, sweet grapes, and tangy feta offers a symphony of flavors and textures that will elevate any meal. Perfect for vegetarians, gluten-free diets, or anyone looking to try something new, this dish is as impressive as it is satisfying.

Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Grapes and Feta