Roasted Garlic Herb Cauliflower

Featured in: Meatless

This elegant roasted cauliflower wreath features large florets tossed in a fragrant garlic and herb marinade, then baked to golden tenderness. The combination of fresh parsley, thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest creates a bright, savory flavor. Garnished with pomegranate seeds, toasted pine nuts, and herb sprigs, it makes a stunning centerpiece for holiday meals or entertaining. Preparation involves coating florets evenly in olive oil and herbs, shaping them tightly in a ring, and roasting until caramelized and soft. Serve warm alongside dipping sauces like yogurt or tahini for added richness.

Updated on Sun, 16 Nov 2025 15:13:00 GMT
Golden-brown roasted garlic and herb cauliflower wreath, garnished for a festive holiday side dish. Save to Pinterest
Golden-brown roasted garlic and herb cauliflower wreath, garnished for a festive holiday side dish. | buddybiteskitchen.com

A stunning festive centerpiece featuring tender roasted cauliflower flavored with garlic and fresh herbs shaped into a beautiful wreath. Perfect for holiday tables or special occasions.

I first made this wreath for our family holiday dinner and guests were delighted not only with its appearance but with the delicious combination of roasted garlic and herbs.

Ingredients

  • Cauliflower: 2 medium heads of cauliflower cut into large florets
  • Olive oil: 4 tablespoons
  • Garlic: 5 cloves minced
  • Parsley: 2 tablespoons fresh finely chopped
  • Thyme: 1 tablespoon fresh leaves
  • Rosemary: 1 tablespoon fresh finely chopped
  • Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
  • Pomegranate seeds: 2 tablespoons (optional)
  • Pine nuts: 2 tablespoons toasted (optional)
  • Fresh herb sprigs: rosemary parsley (optional)

Instructions

Prepare oven and pan:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix marinade:
In a large bowl whisk together olive oil minced garlic parsley thyme rosemary lemon zest salt and pepper.
Marinate cauliflower:
Add cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the marinade.
Shape wreath:
Arrange cauliflower florets in a ring shape on the prepared baking sheet ensuring pieces are tightly packed to form a continuous circle.
Roast cauliflower:
Roast in preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until cauliflower is golden brown and tender turning once halfway through for even roasting.
Present and garnish:
Carefully transfer roasted cauliflower wreath to a serving platter. Garnish with pomegranate seeds toasted pine nuts and fresh herb sprigs if desired. Serve warm.
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| buddybiteskitchen.com

Our kids love helping arrange the cauliflower florets on the pan making it a fun and festive family activity.

Required Tools

Large mixing bowl whisk baking sheet parchment paper sharp knife

Allergen Information

Contains tree nuts if you add pine nuts. Dairy-free gluten-free and suitable for vegetarians. Always double-check packaged ingredients for allergen cross-contamination.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories: 135 Total Fat: 8 g Carbohydrates: 14 g Protein: 4 g

Vibrant overhead shot of a roasted garlic and herb cauliflower wreath ready to serve, smelling delicious. Save to Pinterest
Vibrant overhead shot of a roasted garlic and herb cauliflower wreath ready to serve, smelling delicious. | buddybiteskitchen.com

This impressive cauliflower wreath brings color and flavor to any table and goes perfectly as a side dish or centerpiece.

Common Recipe Questions

How do you achieve tender cauliflower florets?

Coating the florets evenly with olive oil and herbs before roasting ensures even cooking and moisture retention, resulting in tender texture.

Can I prepare the wreath ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the wreath and refrigerate it before roasting, but allow it to come to room temperature for even cooking.

What herbs complement roasted cauliflower best?

Fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary blend harmoniously, enhancing the natural sweetness of roasted cauliflower.

How can I add extra texture to the dish?

Sprinkling toasted pine nuts and pomegranate seeds on top adds crunch and bursts of flavor to contrast the soft florets.

Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it ideal for gluten-sensitive diners.

What side sauces pair well with this cauliflower?

Light dips like yogurt or tahini sauce enhance the flavors and add a creamy texture that complements the roasted vegetables.

Roasted Garlic Herb Cauliflower

Tender cauliflower golden-roasted with garlic and herbs, shaped elegantly for festive tables or gatherings.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Total Time
60 minutes
Created By Max Buddyfield

Recipe Category Meatless

Skill Level Medium

Cuisine Type Modern European

Recipe Yield 6 Number of Servings

Dietary Preferences Vegan-Friendly, Free of Dairy, Free of Gluten

What You'll Need

Cauliflower

01 2 medium heads cauliflower, cut into large florets

Garlic & Herb Marinade

01 4 tablespoons olive oil
02 5 cloves garlic, minced
03 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
04 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
05 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
06 1 teaspoon lemon zest
07 1 teaspoon salt
08 ½ teaspoon black pepper

Garnish (optional)

01 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds
02 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
03 Fresh herb sprigs (rosemary, parsley)

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

Prepare Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 03

Coat Cauliflower: Add cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss thoroughly to ensure each floret is evenly coated with the marinade.

Step 04

Form Wreath: Arrange the coated cauliflower florets tightly in a circular ring on the prepared baking sheet, forming a continuous wreath shape.

Step 05

Roast Cauliflower: Roast the cauliflower wreath in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, turning once halfway through, until florets are golden brown and tender.

Step 06

Garnish and Serve: Transfer the roasted wreath to a serving platter. Garnish with pomegranate seeds, toasted pine nuts, and fresh herb sprigs if desired. Serve warm.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife

Allergy Warnings

Review each ingredient carefully for allergens. If unsure, consult with a healthcare provider.
  • Contains tree nuts (pine nuts optional)

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for general information only. Always consult a healthcare professional for dietary concerns.
  • Calorie Count: 135
  • Fat Content: 8 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 14 grams
  • Protein Content: 4 grams