Cacio e Pepe Whole Roasted Cauliflower
This whole roasted cauliflower is a showstopping dish with the bold, classic flavors of cacio e pepe. Infused with cheesy, garlicky goodness, each bite is complemented by a kick of black pepper. Paired with a cool, creamy sauce, the warm, tender cauliflower creates the perfect contrast, making it as satisfying to eat as it is impressive to serve.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower (2 pounds)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons grated garlic, divided
- 5 tablespoons grated Pecorino Romano cheese, divided
- 1¼ teaspoons coarsely ground pepper, divided, plus more for garnish
- ½ cup whole-milk plain yogurt
- ¼ cup reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with foil. Remove and discard leaves from cauliflower. Trim the bottom of the core so the cauliflower head sits flat on the prepared baking sheet. Whisk 3 tablespoons oil and 1½ teaspoons garlic together in a small bowl. Brush the cauliflower all over with all of the oil mixture, making sure most of the grated garlic pieces are on the top or sides of the head. Sprinkle the top and sides with 2 tablespoons Pecorino and 1 teaspoon pepper, lightly pressing to adhere.
- Cover the cauliflower with foil; roast for 40 minutes. Uncover and continue roasting until golden brown and tender, rotating the baking sheet halfway through, 30 to 35 minutes more.
- Meanwhile, whisk ½ cup yogurt, the softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons Pecorino, ⅛ teaspoon salt and the remaining ½ teaspoon garlic and ¼ teaspoon pepper together in a small bowl until well combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Using the back of a spoon, spread the yogurt mixture on a serving platter. Top with the roasted cauliflower head; sprinkle with the remaining 1 tablespoon Pecorino. Garnish with parsley and/or additional pepper, if desired.
Active Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 25 mins
Servings: 4
https://www.eatingwell.com/cacio-e-pepe-whole-roasted-cauliflower-8770700