Vegan Lemon Pepper Glazed Cauliflower

Turn humble cauliflower into a vibrant, crave-worthy dish! These crispy roasted florets are tossed in a sticky, zesty lemon pepper glaze—sweet, sharp, and perfectly peppery. Serve as a side, appetizer, or standout main with rice or noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The tangy lemon and cracked black pepper glaze balances sweet maple or agave.

• Texture delight: Crisp roasted cauliflower with a glossy, clinging glaze.

• Vegan & gluten-friendly: Uses simple, plant-based ingredients while still feeling special.

• Versatile: Works well as a snack, side, or hearty main dish.

• Bright & fresh: Lemon zest and optional garnishes add pop and personality.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the roasted cauliflower:

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to enhance crispness)

For the lemon pepper glaze:

• ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (or more to taste)

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (slurry to thicken)

• Optional pinch of turmeric for color kick

Optional garnish:

• Chopped green onions

• Extra lemon zest

• Sesame seeds or chili flakes

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425 °F (220 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare cauliflower: Toss florets with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and cornstarch. Spread evenly on the baking sheet.

3. Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway, until edges are crisp and golden.

4. Make the glaze: While cauliflower roasts, whisk together lemon juice, zest, maple syrup (or agave), soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Thicken: Stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer 1–2 minutes until the sauce turns glossy and thick. Remove from heat.

6. Toss & serve: Combine roasted cauliflower and glaze in a large bowl and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately, garnished as desired.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 4 servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: Approximately 45 minutes

Variations

• Frozen cauliflower? Thaw and thoroughly pat dry before roasting.

• Add extra tang: Increase lemon zest or juice for a brighter flavor.

• Extra crunch: Mix in chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts.

• Color lift: A pinch of turmeric in the glaze brings warmth and vibrance.

• Texture tweak: Double the cornstarch for a thicker glaze.

Storage / reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• To reheat, oven-warm at 350 °F for a few minutes to revive crispness—microwaving may soften it.

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lemon juice and zest truly bring bright flavor—bottled may result in a flatter taste.

2. What if I skip the cornstarch?

The cornstarch helps crisp the cauliflower and gives the glaze structure—omitting it will yield softer florets and a runnier sauce.

3. Can I adjust the sweetness?

Absolutely! Add more or less maple syrup/agave to match your preferred sweetness level.

4. Are there gluten-free options?

Yes—use tamari instead of soy sauce, and ensure your cornstarch is properly sourced. The recipe is naturally gluten-light otherwise.

5. What about heat?

The cracked pepper adds a gentle kick, but you can increase pepper or stir in red chili flakes for more spice.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes—just use a larger pan to keep florets spread evenly for roasting, and double the glaze ingredients accordingly.

7. Will frozen cauliflower work?

Yes—just fully thaw and dry the florets to remove excess moisture for best crisp.

8. Is this suitable as a main dish?

Yes—serve it over rice, quinoa, or noodles to turn it into a flavorful plant-based main.

9. What makes this “vegan bliss”?

The combination of sticky sweetness and zesty, peppery brightness elevates ordinary cauliflower into a crave-worthy, plant-based delight.

10. Any garnish advice?

Lemon zest adds freshness; green onions contribute aroma; sesame seeds or chili flakes add interest and texture.

Conclusion

Indulge in this Vegan Lemon Pepper Glazed Cauliflower—its crispy edges, glossy citrus glaze, and bold flavors make it a star in any meal. Whether you serve it as a playful snack, vibrant side, or main course, it’s bound to delight. Let me know if you’d like pairing ideas or ways to adapt for larger gatherings!