Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower

Name: Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1 lime, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love experimenting with flavors in my cooking, and this Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower recipe has quickly become one of my favorites. The vibrant spices and tangy marinade bring an incredible depth to the roasted cauliflower, making it a standout dish on any table. Whether as a side or main, I find that it never fails to impress. Plus, it's a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into our meals without sacrificing taste. The burst of flavors really brightens up any meal!

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:55:12.450Z

My journey experimenting with Jamaican Jerk seasoning led me to create this delicious roasted cauliflower dish. The combination of spices—such as allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers—creates a unique and unforgettable flavor profile. I discovered that marinating the cauliflower for at least 30 minutes really helps the spices penetrate well, enhancing the overall taste and aroma.

After trying several methods, I found roasting the cauliflower provides the best texture. It becomes caramelized and slightly crispy, which pairs beautifully with the crisp and refreshing notes of lime. This dish reminds me why I love cooking: it's about elevating simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold and zesty flavors that awaken the palate
A perfect side or main dish for any occasion
Healthy yet satisfying, this dish is guilt-free

      

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the cauliflower is a crucial step in this recipe, as it allows the bold Jamaican jerk flavors to penetrate each floret, enhancing the overall taste. I recommend letting the cauliflower soak up the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but if time allows, consider marinating it for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This extended time will lead to a more intense flavor profile, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

When marinating, be sure to coat every floret evenly for balanced flavor distribution. If you find the marinade is a bit thick, feel free to add an extra splash of olive oil or lime juice for better consistency. Aim for a glossy coating on the cauliflower, which indicates that it’s well-coated and will roast beautifully.

Achieving the Perfect Roast

For the best results, ensure that your cauliflower florets are cut into even-sized pieces, about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. This uniformity helps them roast consistently. When placing them on the baking sheet, give them enough room; overcrowding can cause steaming rather than roasting, preventing that desirable caramelization and crispiness. If necessary, use two sheets to spread them out properly.

Roasting at 425°F (220°C) is ideal for developing a crispy exterior while keeping the insides tender. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of cooking, as you'll want to pull them out right as they’re turning golden brown—this is when the flavor intensifies and the texture becomes irresistibly crunchy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower.

Ingredients

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 lime, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Make sure to adjust the amount of jerk seasoning according to your taste preference if you enjoy more or less heat!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will help achieve the perfect roast.

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, jerk seasoning, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.

Marinate the Cauliflower

Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Roast the Cauliflower

Spread the marinated cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot as a delightful side or main dish.

Enjoy the incredible flavors of this Jamaican-inspired dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some chopped Scotch bonnet pepper to the marinade. If you want a milder version, use a local spice blend that suits your taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to lighten up this dish further, consider swapping out some of the olive oil for vegetable broth when marinating. This maintains moisture but significantly reduces the fat content. Additionally, if Jamaican jerk seasoning is not available, a combination of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme can create a flavorful alternative that still brings some heat and depth to the dish.

For a unique twist, try incorporating additional vegetables alongside the cauliflower. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes can add varied textures and flavors, all while absorbing the same vibrant jerk marinade. Just be sure to adjust the roasting time slightly, as denser vegetables like sweet potatoes may require additional cooking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, I recommend using the oven or an air fryer to retain the crispy texture. Simply place the cauliflower on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until heated through and crisp again.

If you're looking to meal prep, consider roasting a double batch and using it throughout the week. It works beautifully in grain bowls, wraps, or salads. Just remember that the cauliflower may soften slightly with storage, so re-crisping during reheating is key to maintaining that satisfying crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Yes, you can. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before marinating and roasting.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This dish is entirely plant-based and packed with flavor.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! This marinade works well with other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, so feel free to mix and match.