Wow family and friends at Christmas with a spectacular whole roasted cauliflower. With festive pomegranate jewels, it’s a great veggie main
Prep:5 mins
Serves 4 – 6
1 medium cauliflower, leaves removed and stalk trimmed3 tbsp vegetable oil2 tsp dried mixed herbs2 tsp sweet smoked paprika2 tsp garlic granules½ lemon, juiced6 tbsp thick yogurtsmall handful of parsley, chopped, to servepomegranate seeds, to serve
STEP 1Fill a large, lidded saucepan that’s big enough to fit the whole cauliflower with at least 3cm of salted water, and bring to the boil over a medium heat. Carefully lower the cauliflower into the pan, cover and cook for 3 mins. Remove from the pan and leave to steam-dry for 5-10 mins. Pat any excess water off using a sheet of kitchen paper.STEP 2Meanwhile, heat the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7 and combine the oil, herbs, paprika, garlic granules and a good pinch each of salt and pepper. Put the cauliflower in a deep roasting tin. Brush all over with the oil mixture, making sure you cover the bottom, too. Pour over any excess.STEP 3Roast for 20 mins. Meanwhile, mix together the lemon juice, yogurt and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Chill until needed.STEP 4Remove the cauliflower from the oven and baste with the oil in the tin. Roast for a further 20-30 mins until the cauliflower is golden and crisp in places. Drizzle with the yogurt sauce and scatter with the parsley and pomegranate seeds. Carve into wedges or slices to serve.
