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Cauliflower popcorn

We all have that one veggie we get weirdly creative with—mine is cauliflower. I’ve riced it, mashed it, turned it into “steak,” and yes… now I’ve popped it. Well, sort of.
Enter: Cauliflower Popcorn. It’s crispy, savory, ridiculously snackable, and just healthy enough to eat the whole batch without guilt. It’s not trying to be popcorn—it’s doing its own thing and totally pulling it off.
Whether you're looking for a lighter snack, a fun way to eat more veggies, or just something to dip into your favorite sauce, this recipe’s got you. Four ingredients, one tray, endless flavor potential.

This easy and delicious cauliflower popcorn is a fun take on the classic movie snack – but way healthier! Perfect as a light bite, a party nibble, or even a quirky side dish.

Cauliflower popcorn

Cauliflower Popcorn (Yes, Really)

My friend loves to tease me about my cauliflower creations. I’ve done cauliflower “rice pudding,” cauliflower “steak,” and now… cauliflower popcorn. Look, I know it’s not technically popcorn – aside from the looks – but when you’re making veggie-inspired remakes, names can be tricky. So yes, I’m calling it cauliflower popcorn. Don’t judge me until you try it. It’s pretty addictive. O and if you’re looking for more veggie inspiration. Make sure to check out the page where you can select your favorite vegetables and find all the recipes that way easily.

Just Four Ingredients

What I love most about this recipe is how ridiculously simple it is – only four ingredients (and that’s including the olive oil and salt, which barely count). The magic happens in the oven: the cauliflower roasts up until the edges are golden, crisp, and oh-so-snackable.

The Secret’s in the Seasoning

To give this snack its more-ish, popcorn-like vibe, seasoning is everything. I went minimal here: smoked paprika, sea salt, and olive oil. That’s it. But feel free to play around – garlic powder, curry spices, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can completely transform the flavor.

Cauliflower popcorn

How to Roast It

After tossing your cauliflower florets with the seasoning, spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast in a preheated oven at 200°C (about 400°F) for 20 – 25 minutes, or until the florets are tender and the edges are crispy. Cooking time might vary depending on the size of your pieces – poke with a fork to check for doneness.

Dip It, Of Course

Everything’s better with a dip, right? My current favorite: a mix of crispy chili oil, mayo, and a splash of lemon juice. Creamy, spicy, tangy – basically addictive. Want something milder? Swap the chili oil for sweet chili sauce for a gentler heat with a touch of sweetness.

Serve your cauliflower popcorn as a satisfying snack, a side dish, or even a fun appetizer. It’s not popcorn, sure – but it’s definitely popping with flavor.

Cauliflower popcorn
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Cauliflower popcorn

Prep time 5 minutes
Cooking time 25 minutes
Total time 30 minutes
Servings4 people

Ingredients

  • ½ cauliflower in small florets
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika ground
  • 2 tsp olive oil or coconut oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 200˚C (400˚F)
  2. Put the cauliflower and the rest of the ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Then spread out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  3. Roast the cauliflower for about 20-30 minutes or until golden brown and tender.
  4. Serve immediately

Notes

This cauliflower snack is best eaten fresh from the oven. 
Author recipeSimone

Nutrition Information per portion:

Calories: 37kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 603mg | Potassium: 226mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 246IU | Vitamin C: 35mg | Calcium: 17mg | Iron: 0.4mg

Disclaimer:

The nutritional values above are calculated per portion. The details are based on standard nutritional tables and do not constitute a professional nutritional advice.

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About Simone van den Berg

Food photographer | Food- and travel blogger | Recipe development | Loves to cook, experiment with vegetables and most of all, loves to eat. Whenever I travel (and I do try to do that as often as possible) it's always about food too! Love exploring flavors around the world. Lives together with cats Humphrey and Buffy in the Netherlands.