Looking for a bold and flavorful veggie dish that’s healthy, easy to make, and irresistibly crispy? This Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower combines the sweetness of honey (or maple syrup) with the fiery kick of sriracha and rich umami soy sauce. Roasted to perfection, it’s the perfect snack, appetizer, or side for any meal.
Don’t miss our Grated Beet Carrot Salad for another colorful and crunchy veggie side!
🕒 Quick Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~130 per serving
🛒 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower (medium head) | 1, cut into florets |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Honey (or maple syrup) | 2 tbsp |
| Sriracha sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Cilantro (optional) | For garnish |
| Sesame seeds (optional) | For garnish |
🔪 Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut cauliflower into even-sized florets.
2. Toss in Oil
- In a large bowl, mix cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.
4. Coat & Arrange
- Pour the glaze over the cauliflower. Toss until coated evenly.
- Spread on the baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake to Crisp
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Bake until the edges are caramelized and crispy.
6. Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with cilantro and sesame seeds. Serve hot!
🍽️ How to Serve
- As a healthy snack during the day
- A perfect game day appetizer
- On the side with grilled meat or Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- Over quinoa or rice to make it a meal
- With creamy dips like yogurt or ranch
💡 Tips & Variations
| Tip | Variation |
|---|---|
| Use fresh cauliflower | Better crisp and flavor |
| Adjust spice level | Add more or less sriracha |
| Add zest | Try lime or lemon juice post-bake |
| Swap honey | Use maple syrup or agave for vegan option |
| Different flavor profiles | Try curry powder, buffalo sauce, or BBQ glaze |
Looking for inspiration? Try this Roasted Asparagus and Carrots for another roasted veggie delight!
🧊 Storage & Freezing
- Store: In an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Spread on a tray, freeze, then transfer to a bag. Reheat in the oven.
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small mixing bowl
🥦 Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 130
- Carbs: 12g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
🧭 Related Recipes from Our Site
Check out Cilantro Lime Noodles if you love zesty, bold flavors.
Discover great ideas like Baby Bok Choy for a quick stir-fried side.
Looking for a refreshing side? Cranberry Apple Coleslaw adds sweet tang to your plate.
🧑🍳 Conclusion
Sweet and Spicy Baked Cauliflower is the crunchy, crave-worthy side dish you never knew you needed. It’s bold, healthy, and versatile—whether served on game day, in your meal prep, or just as a satisfying snack. Try it once, and it’ll earn a regular spot in your rotation.
Discover great ideas like this Rustic Zucchini Cheddar Loaf to pair with your cauliflower dish.