Sicilian Roasted Cauliflower

Last Updated on May 5, 2025 by Lisa Keys

Sicilian roasted cauliflower with lemon, capers and pignoli nuts is a delectable side dish or can be a full fledged dinner option.

This isn't just another roasted vegetable dish; it's a miraculous experience. The humble cauliflower transforms into something truly special, its inherent sweetness enhanced by the gentle roasting process. As it caramelizes, it develops a tender interior and beautifully browned edges, creating a delightful textural contrast, too.

But the magic truly unfolds with the addition of the bright, briny, and nutty accents that define this classic Sicilian preparation. Fresh lemon juice, squeezed generously over the warm florets, imparts a zesty tang that awakens the palate. Tiny, salty capers burst with a briny intensity, adding a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the cauliflower. And finally, delicate pignoli nuts, toasted to a light golden hue, lend a subtle buttery richness and satisfying crunch.

Speaking of miracles, nothing is more joyful than the birth of a child. As a physician assistant, I delivered quite a few babies. Each delivery was a miracle, and that glorious experience never got old. Not only did I hope to be a mom one day, but delivering babies was "the job" I most looked forward to. I think my Sicilian heritage makes family everything to me.

I remember every detail of my children's births like it was yesterday. Secretly, I prayed for a girl, and wow, did I deliver! In addition to my miracle being perfectly beautiful, she loves me like no other. Two and a half years later, William blessed us. Let the fun begin! I have so many treasured memories to wrap myself up in, feeling warm and fuzzy all over.

Caitlin is the daughter that dreams are made of. She is my greatest gift and always will be. She is my reason for getting out of bed in the morning. Something I never thought I could do after William died. Without ever knowing she handed me the "shovel" so I could dig deep. It takes a while, but the time will come. The strength to dig deep is inside of each and every one of us. Find a reason to emerge from that dark hole. Ask for help if you can't see the light.

While the parent is supposed to protect the child somewhere along the way our boundaries get blurred and roles get reversed. Truthfully, Caitlin and I have exchanged very few words about William's death. Maybe there are no words for the death of a young son and brother. But healing begins with a few words. “Mom, we will find happiness again, I promise”.  Much like her brother, my daughter is strong and confident and determined.

Next to her birth, Caitlin’s wedding is one of the most joyful experiences of my life. I did not know I could feel that kind of comfort in my heart again. The year leading up to the big day is filled with priceless moments, laughter and I’d be lying if I didn’t say a few tears. But I let it go. I open my heart to the possibility….that I can feel joy again and I do. You can, too. It’s a very real miracle.

In my cooking world there is nothing more miraculous than the transformation taken on by raw vegetables when roasted. How anyone can bite into a raw mushroom, broccoli floret or chunk of cauliflower and enjoy it is beyond me. But take those same vegetables, roast them up and I am in veggie side-dish heaven.

Roasted cauliflower is the perfect blank canvas for delectable sauces. My dear Caitlin taught me the virtues of roasted cauliflower (I love that this apple didn't fall far from the cooking tree), so this Sicilian roasted cauliflower is for her. I love her more than I can say. She is my greatest gift this Christmas season.

This dish is more than just delicious; it's also incredibly versatile. It makes a wonderful side dish alongside roasted meats or fish, adding a vibrant and flavorful element to your meal. It can also stand alone as a light vegetarian main course, especially when served with a dollop of creamy ricotta or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Sicilian Roasted Cauliflower

Lisa Keys

Full of flavor this Sicilian roasted cauliflower is a family favorite.

5 from 2 votes

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Sicilian

Servings 6

Calories 127 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 head cauliflower
• 3 tablespoon Olive Oil divided
• ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Non-pareil Capers drained, rinsed
• Juice of ½ Lemon
• ¼ cup golden raisins
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts toasted

Instructions

 

• Heat oven 450F. Cut cauliflower into ½-inch thick slices. Place in a large baking pan.
• Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper; toss around.
• Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, turning twice, until tender and golden.
• Meanwhile, warm the remaining olive oil and capers over medium heat.
• In a large serving bowl, toss cauliflower, warm caper oil, lemon juice, raisins, and pine nuts. Season with additional salt, pepper and lemon juice, if needed. 

Notes

Cauliflower can also be separated into florets instead of slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 servingCalories: 127kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 297mgPotassium: 354mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 47mgCalcium: 26mgIron: 1mg

Keyword easy sides, grief lesson, happiness, roasted, roasted vegetables

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