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Vegan Lemon Pepper Glazed Cauliflower Recipe

Vegan Lemon Pepper Glazed Cauliflower Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 27 reviews

This Vegan Lemon Pepper Glazed Cauliflower recipe features crispy roasted cauliflower florets coated in a tangy, sweet, and peppery lemon glaze. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or side dish, it combines zesty lemon juice, maple syrup, and a hint of black pepper for a delicious plant-based treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Roasted Cauliflower

  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crisp)

Lemon Pepper Glaze

  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)
  • Optional: pinch of turmeric for color

Optional Garnish

  • Chopped green onions
  • Extra lemon zest
  • Sesame seeds or chili flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Cauliflower: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and cornstarch until well coated. This cornstarch helps achieve a crispier texture.
  3. Roast Until Crispy: Spread the cauliflower in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the florets halfway through, until they are golden brown and crisp on the edges.
  4. Make the Lemon Pepper Glaze: While the cauliflower is roasting, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup or agave, soy sauce or tamari, garlic powder, and freshly cracked black pepper in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  5. Thicken the Sauce: Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, and stir it into the simmering glaze. Continue to cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Remove from heat immediately.
  6. Toss & Serve: Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a large bowl, pour the warm lemon pepper glaze over it, and toss until all pieces are evenly coated. Serve immediately topped with optional garnishes like chopped green onions, extra lemon zest, sesame seeds, or chili flakes for an added burst of flavor and texture.

Notes

  • You can substitute tamari for soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
  • Add a pinch of turmeric to the glaze for a vibrant yellow color and subtle earthiness.
  • For extra crispiness, ensure the cauliflower florets are in a single layer and not overcrowded on the baking sheet.
  • Adjust the amount of black pepper based on your preference for spice.
  • This dish is best served immediately to maintain crisp texture but can be reheated gently if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegan cauliflower recipe, lemon pepper cauliflower, roasted cauliflower glaze, vegan side dish, healthy cauliflower recipe

Find it online: https://zarameals.com/vegan-lemon-pepper-glazed-cauliflower-recipe/