Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower

Name: Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Favorites

I absolutely love this Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower recipe! The vibrant combination of spices really brings out the flavors of the cauliflower, turning it into a fantastic dish that can be enjoyed on its own or alongside your favorite meals. I’ve experimented with various seasonings, and this jerk marinade has quickly become a favorite. It’s not only packed with a kick of flavor, but it’s also super easy to make and can be ready in just 30 minutes!

Created by

Serena Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:13:35.789Z

Cooking Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower has been a delightful experience for me. I really enjoy how the smoky heat of the spices complements the mild taste of the cauliflower. I often toss the florets in the marinade and let them sit for a bit to absorb all those amazing flavors. It’s a simple process, but it yields stunning results that truly impress anyone who tries it.

Additionally, serving it with a cooling dip, like avocado or a yogurt sauce, enhances the experience. Not only does it balance the heat, but it also adds another layer of texture and flavor that makes this dish memorable and satisfying.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Explosively rich flavors from authentic Jamaican spices
Healthy and low-calorie option that satisfies cravings
Versatile dish perfect as a side or a main course

Understanding Jamaican Jerk Seasoning

Jamaican jerk seasoning is a key element that gives this cauliflower its vibrant flavor profile. Made from a blend of allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers, it balances heat with aromatic spices. If you can’t find pre-made seasoning, you can create your own by mixing these spices along with some nutmeg and cinnamon, which adds warmth to the dish. Adjust the level of heat by adding more or fewer Scotch bonnets based on your taste preference.

This seasoning not only infuses the cauliflower with an exciting taste but also helps to create a beautiful caramelization during roasting. The sugars in the spices react in the heat, giving the florets golden edges and a slightly crispy texture, which is a delightful contrast to the tender interior. For optimal flavor, consider marinating the cauliflower in the jerk seasoning and olive oil for at least 30 minutes before roasting.

Perfecting Your Roasting Technique

Roasting is essential for enhancing the natural flavors of cauliflower. When spreading the florets on the baking sheet, ensure they are in a single layer to allow even cooking and decent airflow. This step is crucial; overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of roasting, resulting in a soggy texture. For a little extra crunch, I like to turn the florets halfway through cooking, approximately at the 10-minute mark.

Remember to check for doneness visually. The cauliflower should be fork-tender and have dark golden edges when it's fully roasted. If you want a slightly charred appearance, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, but keep a close watch to prevent burning. The result will be perfectly caramelized, flavorful cauliflower that serves as a fantastic side or a main dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your flavorful Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower:

Ingredients

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to prepare everything before starting the cooking process for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower:

Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, jerk seasoning, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cauliflower florets and toss until they are well coated.

Roast the Cauliflower

Spread the coated cauliflower evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the florets are tender and slightly charred.

Serve

Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy!

Pair with a refreshing side salad for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a splash of hot sauce to the marinade or serve with your favorite spicy dipping sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower can be incredibly versatile on your table. Serve it warm as a standalone dish accompanied by a cool cucumber salad to balance the heat. It also pairs wonderfully with rice and peas, which can help absorb the spices and enhance the meal's depth. If you're feeling adventurous, you could use the roasted cauliflower in tacos, topping them with avocado and fresh salsa for a delightful fusion experience.

For an added zing, consider drizzling extra lime juice over the cauliflower right before serving. This not only brightens the dish but also complements the spices perfectly. Fresh cilantro, which is already part of the recipe, offers another layer of freshness that elevates the overall flavor profile, making each bite refreshing.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're preparing this dish ahead of time, fully roast the cauliflower and then cool it completely at room temperature before storage. Place it in an airtight container, and it will last in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheating is easy; just pop it back into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain its crispness, or briefly microwave if you're in a hurry, but this may result in a softer texture.

Feel free to double the recipe if you're planning for a gathering. Leftovers can also be incorporated into salads, grain bowls, or pasta for a quick meal option throughout the week. Just be mindful that the flavor deepens over time, making it even more delicious as it marinates together in your fridge.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan since it uses only plant-based ingredients.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower?

This dish pairs well with rice and beans, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower; just ensure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before marinating.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.