Cauliflower Pasta in Garlic Herb Sauce

Indulge in a scrumptious plate of spaghetti tossed with tender cauliflower florets and a rich garlic herb sauce. This dish combines the nutty flavor of roasted cauliflower with al dente pasta, creating a harmonious blend that's both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe promises to please pasta lovers and vegetable enthusiasts alike.
ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
steps
- 1.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- 2.
On a baking sheet, toss cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes until golden and tender.
- 3.
Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- 4.
In a large skillet, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat, then add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 5.
Stir in roasted cauliflower and cooked spaghetti into the skillet. Mix well, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- 6.
Remove from heat and fold in Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and fresh parsley. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- 7.
Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley and cheese if desired.