Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Whipped Goat Cheese

A stunning whole cauliflower first poached in a flavorful wine broth, then roasted until golden brown and served with a creamy whipped three-cheese spread. Perfect as a vegetarian centerpiece dish.

6 servings
1 hr 10 min

Ingredients

  • cups dry white wine
  • cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup kosher salt
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 leaf bay leaf
  • 1 head cauliflower
  • 4 ounces fresh goat cheese
  • 3 ounces cream cheese
  • 3 ounces feta
  • cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 to taste coarse sea salt

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Preheat oven to 475°F. Bring wine, oil, kosher salt, juice, butter, red pepper flakes, sugar, bay leaf, and 8 cups water to a boil in a large pot. Add cauliflower, reduce heat, and simmer, turning occasionally, until a knife easily inserts into center, 15-20 minutes.

    20 min

  2. 2.

    Using 2 slotted spoons or a mesh spider, transfer cauliflower to a rimmed baking sheet, draining well. Roast, rotating sheet halfway through, until brown all over, 30-40 minutes.

    35 min

  3. 3.

    While cauliflower is roasting, blend goat cheese, cream cheese, feta, cream, and 2 tablespoons oil in a food processor until smooth; season with sea salt. Transfer whipped goat cheese to a serving bowl and drizzle with oil.

    10 min

  4. 4.

    Transfer cauliflower to a plate. Drizzle with oil; sprinkle with sea salt. Serve with whipped goat cheese.

    5 min

  5. 5.

    DO AHEAD: Whipped goat cheese can be made 1 day ahead. Cover; chill.

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