Spaghetti with Roast Cauliflower and Tomato
I’ve grown to love cauliflower over the last couple of years. As I kid I remember my mum trying so hard to get me to eat it and I just thought it was horrible. I totally underestimated this vegetable. For vegans, it’s a magical ingredient. Use it to make vegan bechamel, it’s an alternative to rice and an all round delicious vegetable.
In this pasta dish the cauliflower is the hero. Roasted this way it’s juicy and soft, yet it creates a great texture throughout the spaghetti.
What I love most about this dish is how easy it is. There isn’t much cooking involved at all. It’s all about throwing a few basic ingredients together and then let the oven create all the goodness you deserve.
Spaghetti with Roast Cauliflower and Tomato
Ingredients
- entire cauliflower
- 3 large vine ripened tomatoes
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives
- 1/4 cup semi-dried tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- parsley, rosemary and basil
- teaspoon salt
Method
- Cut the cauliflower into small chunks and finely dice the tomatoes. Add these to a roasting tray.
- Add to the cauliflower and tomato chopped garlic, pitted olives, salt, fresh herbs, olive oil. Mix well and then bake in oven for 25 minutes.
- Boil the spaghetti, strain and toss through the pasta sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cauliflower is a great source of vitamins and dietary fiber. Could you elaborate on some of the nutritional benefits of incorporating cauliflower into this pasta dish?
Cauliflower is a nutritious addition to this pasta dish for several reasons: - **Vitamins and Minerals:** Cauliflower is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, folate, and potassium. These nutrients are important for overall health, including immune support, bone health, and energy metabolism. - **Dietary Fiber:** Cauliflower is high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels, and contributes to feelings of fullness and satiety. Fiber is important for a healthy digestive system. - **Low in Calories:** Cauliflower is relatively low in calories, making it a great choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
Roasting cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness and creates a lovely texture. What are the key steps to ensure the cauliflower turns out perfectly roasted in this dish?
Achieving perfectly roasted cauliflower involves the following steps: - **Even Sizing:** Cut the cauliflower into uniform-sized florets to ensure even cooking. This prevents some pieces from becoming overcooked while others are undercooked. - **Proper Seasoning:** Season the cauliflower generously with olive oil, salt, and herbs. The olive oil helps to coat the cauliflower and promote browning, while the salt and herbs enhance the flavour. - **Even Spreading:** Spread the cauliflower pieces in a single layer on the roasting tray, ensuring they are not crowded. Crowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting. - **Roasting Temperature and Time:** Roast the cauliflower at a moderately high temperature, typically around 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows for caramelization and browning. Roast for about 25 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender and has developed a nice colour.
Are there any optional ingredients or variations that can be added to this spaghetti dish to tailor it to different tastes or dietary preferences?
Certainly! This recipe serves as a versatile base that can be customized to suit individual preferences: - **Protein:** For added protein, consider adding cooked chickpeas, white beans, or grilled tofu cubes to the pasta. - **Cheese:** If you're not following a vegan diet, you can top the dish with grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for a savory finish. Vegan cheese alternatives are available for plant-based diets. - **Additional Vegetables:** You can add other roasted or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to increase the variety of flavours and textures. - **Spices:** Experiment with spices like red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper for a touch of heat or smokiness. - **Fresh Herbs:** Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme can add aromatic freshness to the dish.
