Crispy Vegan Roasted Cauliflower

ByHannah Peterson

Crispy Vegan Roasted Cauliflower

Golden. Crunchy. Irresistibly plant-based.

There’s something magical about cauliflower — humble, versatile, and when roasted just right, completely addictive.
This recipe transforms simple cauliflower florets into crispy, golden bites that rival any fried snack — without the grease or guilt.
Serve them as an appetizer, a side dish, or your new favorite game-day munchie.

💚 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • 100% vegan and gluten-free friendly
  • Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
  • Uses simple pantry ingredients
  • Oven or air-fryer friendly
  • Perfect for dipping into vegan ranch, chipotle mayo, or BBQ sauce

🥣 Ingredients

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-size florets
  • 1 cup unsweetened plant milk (soy or oat)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (to make vegan buttermilk)
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1–2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for extra crispness)

🔥 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Make vegan buttermilk: Combine plant milk and apple cider vinegar; let sit 5 minutes.
  3. Prepare batter: In a large bowl, whisk flour, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Slowly add the buttermilk until a smooth batter forms.
  4. Coat the cauliflower: Dip florets into the batter, then roll in breadcrumbs.
  5. Bake: Arrange on the baking sheet, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
  6. Serve hot with your favorite vegan dip — spicy mayo, buffalo sauce, or creamy garlic dressing.

🌿 Tips & Variations

  • Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes.
  • Spicy Version: Add cayenne or hot sauce to the batter.
  • Cheesy Touch: Sprinkle with vegan Parmesan before baking.

✨ Serving Suggestion

Pair these golden bites with roasted potatoes, toss them into tacos, or serve them with a cool vegan yogurt dip.

Whether you’re plant-based or just cauliflower-curious, this dish will make you forget about chicken wings forever.

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