Dinner

Spiced Roasted Cauliflower Steaks with Parsley and Pomegranate Recipe

Name: Spiced Roasted Cauliflower Steaks with Parsley and Pomegranate Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 medium cauliflower head; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp cumin powder; ¼ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste); Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley; Pomegranate seeds

ByNaomi Fletcher December 26, 2025December 26, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Cauliflower steaks offer a delicious and hearty plant-based alternative that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Seasoned with smoky spices and roasted until golden, these steaks make a beautiful main or side dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special vegetarian dinner.

The image shows four thick slices of roasted cauliflower arranged on a sheet of white parchment paper over a white marbled surface. Each cauliflower slice is golden brown with crispy, slightly charred edges and is coated with a layer of reddish spices. Scattered on and around the cauliflower slices are small bright red pomegranate seeds and fresh green parsley leaves, adding pops of color. The overall look is rustic and appetizing with a mix of warm tones from the cauliflower and cool tones from the garnishes. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 medium cauliflower head
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp cumin powder
¼ tsp chili powder (adjust according to your spice preference)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: chopped parsley and pomegranate seeds for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create the marinade.
Step 3: Trim a thin slice off the bottom of the cauliflower stem, keeping the core intact. Place the cauliflower upright on a cutting board and carefully slice it into thick “steaks” about ½ inch (1 cm) thick. You should get about 4 steaks. Reserve any loose florets for another use or roast alongside the steaks.
Step 4: Arrange the cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet. Brush the marinade onto one side of each steak, then flip and brush the remaining marinade on the other side.
Step 5: Roast the cauliflower steaks in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and tender. You can test tenderness by inserting a fork or toothpick—it should slide in easily.
Step 6: Serve the cauliflower steaks warm, topped with optional chopped parsley and pomegranate seeds. They pair wonderfully with white bean dip and a rich meat-free gravy.

Tips & Variations

For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a touch of smoked sea salt to the marinade.
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the chili powder.
Try roasting the leftover cauliflower florets with the same marinade for a snack or salad addition.
Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, bright contrast.

Storage

Store any leftover cauliflower steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture and crispness.

How to Serve

The image shows four thick roasted cauliflower steaks laid out on a sheet of parchment paper over a white marbled surface. Each cauliflower steak is a pale creamy color with charred brown edges and orange-red seasoning sprinkled evenly on top. Bright green parsley leaves and small shiny ruby-red pomegranate seeds are scattered over the cauliflower and parchment paper, adding pops of color. The texture of the cauliflower looks tender with some crispy bits on the edges, while the parchment paper beneath has slightly browned spots from roasting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I grill cauliflower steaks instead of roasting?

Yes, grilling is a great alternative. Brush the steaks with marinade and grill over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side until charred and tender.

What can I serve with cauliflower steaks?

Cauliflower steaks pair well with a variety of sides such as a creamy white bean dip, roasted potatoes, grain salads, or a fresh green salad. Adding a flavorful gravy or sauce enhances the dish further.