Charred Cauliflower Lemon-Pistachio Pasta (Katie's Style)

Ingredientes

Ingredients (Serves 2-4)

For the Cauliflower • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets • 2 Tbsp olive oil • Salt & freshly ground pepper, to taste

For the Pasta • 80z (225 g) pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli) • 3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil • Zest + juice of 1 lemon • ¼ cup toasted pistachios, roughly chopped • 2 Tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish) • Grated Parmesan or pecorino (optional, for serving)

Instruções

Instructions

1. Prep & Char the Cauliflower • Preheat oven to 425 °F (220 °C). • Toss cauliflower florets in 2 Tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. • Spread on a baking sheet without crowding. • Roast 20-25 min, flipping halfway, until deeply golden and charred on edges (tiktok.com, themom100.com, womansday.com, heb.com).

2. Cook Pasta • Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

3. Make Lemon-Pistachio Sauce • In the pasta pot or a large bowl, whisk together 3 Tosp olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. • Add pasta, charred cauliflower, and pistachios. Toss to combine. • If needed, loosen with reserved pasta water for a silky coat.

4. Serve • Plate and garnish with parsley (if using). • Finish with grated cheese if desired.

Notas

Tips & Variations • Enhancements: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or arugula for color and freshness. • Heat factor: Add red pepper flakes or Aleppo chili to the lemon sauce. • Herbal twist: Replace parsley with chopped dill or basil for an aromatic lift. • Make-ahead: Cauliflower can be roasted up to a day in advance; reheat quickly in the oven before tossing.

Why it Works • Charred cauliflower brings caramelized depth — its crispy edges mimic grilled flavor (purewow.com). • Bright lemon balances the roasted veggies, while pistachios introduce crunch and nutty richness. • It's fast, one-bowl, and veggie-centric— perfect for casual dinners or meal prep.

Enjoy Katie's inspired twist on charred cauliflower - zesty, nutty, and full of texture! Let me know if you want a vegan version or other veggie pasta ideas.