Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower

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

Highlighted under: Traditional Collection

I absolutely love taking classic Jamaican flavors and putting them into unexpected dishes. This Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower is a fantastic plant-based take on the traditional jerk spice blend. The perfect balance of heat and sweetness has become a favorite in our house. Pairing this spicy cauliflower with cooling sides, like a tangy slaw or creamy avocado, elevates the experience. I promise you’ll fall in love with this unique and flavorful dish that offers a true taste of the Caribbean.

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:01:34.519Z

When I first tried Jamaican jerk seasoning, it opened my eyes to a depth of flavor I had never experienced before. After deciding to experiment with cauliflower as the base, I marinated it overnight in that vibrant jerk spice mixture, which really allowed the flavors to infuse deeply. The result was a deliciously spicy yet satisfying dish that became an instant hit during our family dinners.

Cooking the marinated cauliflower at high heat gives the florets a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with their tender inside. I discovered that garnishing with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime really brings this dish to life. It's a game-changer for our weeknight meals!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold and flavorful jerk seasoning that tantalizes your taste buds
Healthy alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste and satisfaction
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding Jamaican Jerk Seasoning

Jamaican jerk seasoning is a vibrant blend of spices that usually includes allspice, thyme, garlic, and scotch bonnet peppers. These elements come together to create a complex flavor profile that can elevate any dish. In the context of this cauliflower recipe, the jerk seasoning not only brings heat but also a depth of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the vegetable's subtlety. Experimenting with different brands of jerk seasoning can yield varying results; I recommend trying a few to find one that resonates with your palate.

When using jerk seasoning, it’s vital to allow enough marinating time for the cauliflower. While 30 minutes is the minimum, you can let it sit longer—up to a few hours in the fridge for deeper flavor penetration. Just ensure it’s covered to prevent the marinade from drying out. The goal is to allow the spices to infuse into the florets fully, which provides that delicious, characteristically bold taste in every bite.

Perfecting the Baking Technique

Baking at a high temperature of 425°F (220°C) is crucial for achieving that golden-brown, crispy exterior that makes this dish satisfying. Spread the marinated cauliflower evenly on your baking sheet, ensuring there's space between each piece; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting. I like to use parchment paper to help with cleanup and prevent sticking, enhancing the crispy texture as they bake.

For optimal results, remember to turn the cauliflower halfway through cooking. This step is essential, as it promotes even browning and ensures each piece is adequately roasted. You’re aiming for that perfect blend of tenderness on the inside and a caramelized surface. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking; you’ll want to pull them when you see golden edges and a slightly crispy surface.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a mouthwatering Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower dish:

Ingredients

1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Jamaican jerk seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1 lime, juiced
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

These ingredients come together to create a dish packed with authentic Jamaican flavors.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower:

Prepare the marinade

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, Jamaican jerk seasoning, and lime juice. Mix well until it forms a marinade.

Marinate the cauliflower

Add cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Bake the cauliflower

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the marinated cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Garnish and serve

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

Enjoy your flavorful Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some sliced jalapeños to the marinade or serve with a spicy dipping sauce.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower with a cooling side like a tangy slaw or creamy avocado slices to balance the heat. You can easily whip up a simple slaw using shredded cabbage, carrots, a squeeze of lime, and a hint of vinegar to enhance the freshness. It's a perfect foil to the spices and adds a refreshing crunch.

For a more substantial meal, feel free to serve this dish over a bed of rice or quinoa, which absorbs any leftover marinade and completes the experience with its fluffiness. If you're looking for a heartier version, adding black beans or chickpeas can complement both texture and protein, making this plant-based dish even more satisfying.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is excellent for meal prep! You can marinate the cauliflower in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to toss it again before spreading on the baking sheet to ensure the marinade is evenly distributed after sitting. This allows flavors to build and makes for a quick cooking option on busy nights.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, consider using an oven or air fryer to retain that crispy texture—microwaving may result in a softer bite. Reheating at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes will help regain some of the crunch while warming it through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-made jerk seasoning?

Absolutely! Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

Yes, Jamaican Jerk Cauliflower is completely plant-based and vegan-friendly.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

You can marinate the cauliflower a day ahead and then bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs beautifully with rice and peas or a refreshing salad to balance the heat.