Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower

Name: Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love how Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower captures the essence of Caribbean flavors while being incredibly healthy. This dish is packed with a vibrant blend of spices that brings my taste buds to life. The smoky and spicy jerk seasoning clings to the cauliflower, making each bite a burst of flavor. Whether I serve it as a main dish or a side, this recipe never fails to impress. Plus, it's easy to make, which is perfect for busy weeknights when I still want something delicious and satisfying.

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:31:09.966Z

When I first tried making Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower, I wanted to re-create the vibrant flavors I experienced on a trip to Jamaica. The key was finding the right balance of spices that would give the florets a punch without overpowering their natural taste. I discovered that marinating the cauliflower for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, enhancing the overall dish.

What surprised me was how versatile this recipe turned out to be. I often serve it with rice and peas, but it also pairs beautifully with a salad or as a taco filling. Every time I make it, friends and family rave about the flavors and ask for the recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful blend of spices adds depth and flavor
Healthy, low-calorie alternative to traditional jerk dishes
Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion

      

Understanding Jerk Seasoning

Jamaican jerk seasoning is a key element that distinguishes this dish with its signature flavor profile. Comprised of a blend of spices like allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers, it creates a unique balance between smoky, spicy, and sweet notes. When mixing it with the cauliflower, the seasoning not only infuses the vegetable with flavor but also provides a delightful char when baked. If you're looking for a milder option, consider substituting the Scotch bonnet with a jalapeño for less heat while still keeping the complexity.

The marinating period is crucial in this recipe. Allowing the seasoned cauliflower to rest for at least 30 minutes enables the spices to deeply penetrate each floret, enhancing the overall taste. If you're short on time, even a quick 10-minute marination will still make a noticeable difference, though the longer you wait, the more robust the flavor will be. I recommend using a covered bowl or a zip-top bag to ensure the cauliflower is well-coated throughout.

Perfecting the Bake

Baking the cauliflower at 400°F (200°C) is essential for achieving that perfect texture. This temperature allows the edges to crisp up while ensuring the insides become tender. To avoid overcrowding, spread the florets in a single layer, which will help them roast evenly and develop a rich golden color. If space is limited, consider using multiple baking sheets or roasting in batches.

During the baking process, turning the cauliflower halfway through promotes uniform cooking and prevents any steaming, which can lead to a soggy texture. You’ll know it's ready when the florets are golden brown and tender, typically around the 25-minute mark. For extra caramelization, you can broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, but be sure to keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this flavorful dish:

Ingredients

1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro for garnish

With your ingredients ready, you're one step closer to a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower:

Prepare Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, Jamaican jerk seasoning, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Marinate

Let the cauliflower marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

Bake

Spread the marinated cauliflower on a baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes or until the florets are golden brown and tender, turning halfway through.

Serve

Once baked, drizzle with lime juice and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Your meal is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños when baking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the jerk seasoning to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower can stand alone as a satisfying main dish, but it also pairs wonderfully with rice and peas or a crisp salad. To elevate the dish further, serve it with a side of avocado or a cooling yogurt sauce to balance out the heat from the jerk seasoning. You can also add a sprinkle of feta cheese or nuts for an unexpected textural contrast.

This dish is also fantastic in a wrap or taco. Use large lettuce leaves as a low-carb alternative or whole-grain tortillas for a more traditional approach. Fill your wraps with jerk cauliflower, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of lime crema for a party-worthy bite.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the baked cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheating can be done in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the florets crispy. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but be aware this may soften the texture. If you prefer a crisp finish, consider giving them a quick pan fry after microwaving.

For longer storage, freeze the uncooked marinated cauliflower. Lay the seasoned florets flat on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen; however, you may need to extend the baking time by 5-10 minutes, keeping an eye on their progress for even cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the cauliflower and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Is it possible to add other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can mix in bell peppers, zucchini, or any other vegetables you enjoy.

→ How can I make it vegan?

This recipe is already vegan as it contains no animal products. Enjoy it guilt-free!

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower?

It pairs wonderfully with rice and peas or can be used as a filling for tacos.