Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta

Name: Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 pound whole grain pasta; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Highlighted under: Wholesome Meal Delights

I love making Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta because it combines rich flavors with a healthy twist. The deep-roasted cauliflower adds a nutty profile that elevates the traditional garlic sauce, making every bite satisfying. I often prepare this dish when I’m craving comfort food without the guilt. With a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Trust me, this pasta will win over even the pickiest of eaters!

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:13:22.054Z

When I first experimented with Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta, I was mesmerized by how the sweetness of roasted cauliflower melded beautifully with the zing of garlic. The secret is not just roasting the cauliflower until it's golden but also adding a splash of lemon juice to the garlic sauce. This brightens the dish and cuts through the richness of the pasta.

After several attempts, I found that using whole grain pasta adds a delightful chewiness while boosting the nutritional profile. I often throw in some fresh herbs at the end for an extra pop of flavor. It’s become a go-to in my home!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutty roasted cauliflower enhances the flavor profile
Creamy garlic sauce that's both rich and lighter than traditional recipes
Easy to prepare, perfect for quick weeknight dinners

      

A Closer Look at Cauliflower

Cauliflower serves as the star of this dish, contributing a unique, nutty flavor when roasted. The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in cauliflower, transforming its texture and deepening its taste. I recommend chopping the florets into uniform sizes, about 1 to 2 inches, to ensure even cooking. Keeping an eye on them during roasting is essential; if they start to brown too quickly, consider reducing the temperature slightly to avoid burning.

This versatile vegetable not only provides flavor but also adds nutrients like fiber and vitamins C and K to your meal. If you're looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower can also be a great substitute for grains in many recipes. You can even reserve some roasted cauliflower to mix into salads or grain bowls for a nutritious boost later in the week.

Perfecting the Garlic Sauce

The garlic sauce in this recipe strikes a wonderful balance between rich and light. Sautéing the minced garlic for just 1 to 2 minutes over medium heat allows it to develop its flavor without becoming bitter. Be cautious not to let it brown too much—the goal is to achieve a fragrant aroma while keeping the garlic rawness in check. If you prefer a milder taste, consider adding a few sprigs of fresh thyme or basil while the garlic cooks.

Using vegetable broth adds depth to the sauce as it simmers, but if you want an even richer flavor, chicken broth or homemade stock can serve as excellent alternatives. When combining the roasted cauliflower with the sauce, remember that the reserved pasta water will help emulsify the mixture. This small amount of starchy water not only helps the sauce cling to the pasta but also enhances the creamy texture, so go easy on the liquid until you achieve your desired level of creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta:

Ingredients for Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta

1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup vegetable broth
1 pound whole grain pasta
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Make sure to measure everything out before starting for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta:

Roast the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the chopped cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes, until golden and tender.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Sauce

In a skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Carefully pour in the vegetable broth and simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the roasted cauliflower and pasta to the skillet with the garlic sauce. Mix well, adding the reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired creaminess. Stir in the lemon juice.

Serve

Plate your pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your meal!

This dish pairs perfectly with a light salad or some crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce. You can also substitute cashew cream for a vegan option.

Make-Ahead Tips

Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta can be made ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping. You can roast the cauliflower and cook the pasta a day or two in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy the dish, simply heat the garlic sauce in a skillet and add in the pre-cooked pasta and cauliflower, which will reheat quickly without losing texture.

If you're short on time during a busy week, consider making a double batch of the sauce and freezing it in small portions. This way, you can easily pull out a serving whenever you need it. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight or warm it gently on the stove with a splash of water to get the consistency back to perfect.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before serving. This simple addition can elevate the dish with a kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy garlic sauce. Additionally, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the dish, cutting through the richness and enhancing the flavors of the roasted cauliflower.

To make this dish a complete meal, serve it with a light side salad, perhaps with arugula dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a simple spinach salad with cherry tomatoes. A side of garlic bread can also complement this pasta beautifully, perfect for a comforting dinner that speaks to both indulgence and health.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cauliflower works well! Just make sure to adjust your roasting time.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.