Name: Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Cauliflower
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: Cauliflower (1 medium head, about 800g): The star of the dish, cut into bite-sized florets.; Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For roasting the cauliflower and adding a rich flavor.; Thyme (a few sprigs): Fresh thyme adds a fragrant, earthy note.; Cheddar Cheese (50g, grated): Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor that melts beautifully over the cauliflower.; Red Chili (1, finely sliced): For a bit of heat and to balance the sweetness of the cauliflower.

The Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Cauliflower recipe is a simple, healthy, and delicious dish that showcases the natural flavors of cauliflower with just a few key ingredients. This recipe is perfect for those who want to whip up a quick and nutritious meal with minimal effort and fuss. Using only five ingredients, this dish is perfect as a side or a light main meal, and it’s an ideal option for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for something light yet flavorful.

What is Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Cauliflower?

This recipe from Jamie Oliver uses just five simple ingredients to turn cauliflower into a mouth-watering dish. The cauliflower is roasted to bring out its natural sweetness and then paired with a few key flavors that enhance its taste. With minimal ingredients and effort, this dish is both healthy and incredibly satisfying.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With only five ingredients, it’s perfect for a busy day.
Healthy: Cauliflower is low in calories and packed with nutrients.
Versatile: This dish works great as a side for meat or fish or as a vegetarian main.

Minimal Ingredients: It’s budget-friendly and easy to prepare with pantry staples.
Delicious: Roasting cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness, while simple flavors enhance the dish.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Cauliflower

Cauliflower (1 medium head, about 800g): The star of the dish, cut into bite-sized florets.

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For roasting the cauliflower and adding a rich flavor.
Thyme (a few sprigs): Fresh thyme adds a fragrant, earthy note.
Cheddar Cheese (50g, grated): Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor that melts beautifully over the cauliflower.

Red Chili (1, finely sliced): For a bit of heat and to balance the sweetness of the cauliflower.

Equipment

Large Baking Tray: For roasting the cauliflower.
Mixing Bowl: Toss the cauliflower with olive oil and seasoning.

Grater: For grating the cheddar cheese.
Sharp Knife: For chopping the cauliflower and slicing the chili.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Cauliflower

Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan).

Wash the cauliflower and cut it into small florets, discarding the tough stem.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Roast the Cauliflower

Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets out on a large baking tray in a single layer.

Add the thyme sprigs on top of the cauliflower to infuse flavor during roasting.
Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the florets are golden and crispy on the edges.

Step 3: Add the Chili and Cheese

While the cauliflower is roasting, finely slice the red chili.

Once the cauliflower is golden and crispy, remove the tray from the oven.
Scatter the grated cheddar cheese and sliced chili over the cauliflower.
Return the tray to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, just until the cheese melts and turns slightly golden.

Step 4: Serve the Cauliflower

Remove the tray from the oven and discard the thyme sprigs.
Serve the cauliflower hot as a side dish or a light vegetarian main, with a drizzle of olive oil and an extra sprinkle of fresh thyme if desired.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Cauliflower

Grilled Chicken: Pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the cauliflower.

Steak: The roasted, cheesy cauliflower complements the hearty flavors of grilled or pan-seared steak.
Green Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette lightens the meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with other roasted veggies like carrots, sweet potatoes, or zucchini.

Rice or Quinoa: For a more substantial meal, pair the cauliflower with a side of rice or quinoa.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Cauliflower

Cut Evenly: Cut the cauliflower into even-sized florets to ensure even cooking.
Roast at High Heat: Roasting at a high temperature helps caramelize the cauliflower, giving it a crispy texture and sweet flavor.

Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure the cauliflower is spread out in a single layer on the baking tray to ensure it roasts properly and doesn’t steam.
Use Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme brings a wonderful fragrance and flavor to the dish, but dried thyme can be used in a pinch.
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer less spice, remove the seeds from the chili or reduce the amount.

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Cauliflower

Vegan Version: Replace the cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Add Garlic: Toss the cauliflower with a few minced garlic cloves before roasting for added depth of flavor.
Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for Parmesan or Gruyère for a different cheese flavor.

Lemon Zest: Add a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest just before serving for a bright, citrusy kick.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin for a smoky, spiced flavor.

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Cauliflower

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 180°C for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy again.
Avoid Freezing: Roasted cauliflower is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing may affect its texture.

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Cauliflower

Oven Reheating: Preheat your oven to 180°C and reheat the cauliflower for about 10 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through and crispy on the outside.

Microwave Option: If you’re short on time, reheat the cauliflower in the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, though this may soften the crispiness.
Add Fresh Toppings: After reheating, add fresh thyme or a bit more grated cheese to freshen up the dish.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Cauliflower Healthier?

Use Less Cheese: Reduce the amount of cheese or use a reduced-fat cheese option to cut down on calories and fat.

Omit the Cheese: For a lighter option, skip the cheese altogether and simply enjoy the roasted cauliflower and chili.
Add More Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts for added nutrients and variety.
Olive Oil Spray: Instead of drizzling olive oil, use an olive oil spray to reduce the overall amount of oil used.

Use Low-Sodium Cheese: Opt for low-sodium cheese to cut back on salt.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 8g

Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 5g

Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 280mg

Final Words

The Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Cauliflower recipe is a simple, flavorful dish that proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something delicious. With just five ingredients, you can transform cauliflower into a satisfying and healthy meal or side dish that everyone will love. Perfect for busy nights or when you want something light yet tasty, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

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