Are you ready to spice up your veggie game? This Spicy Sriracha Honey Cauliflower is bold and zesty—a treat you won’t want to miss. With crunchy cauliflower florets coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, it’s perfect as a side dish or a snack. In this post, I’ll share simple steps, tips, and variations to make this dish your own. Let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: This dish combines sweet and spicy flavors that create a delicious taste sensation in every bite.
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Satisfying: Cauliflower is a nutritious alternative to traditional snacks that keeps you feeling full without the guilt.
- Versatile Serving Options: This dish can be served as an appetizer, side, or even a light main course, making it a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
I love using fresh cauliflower for this dish. The florets soak up the flavors well. The olive oil gives a rich base, while Sriracha adds heat. Honey brings sweetness to balance the spice. Soy sauce or tamari gives depth and umami. Garlic powder and smoked paprika enhance the flavor profile. Black pepper and salt round it all off.
Garnish Ingredients
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
For garnish, I use green onions for a fresh crunch. Sesame seeds add a nutty taste and a nice look. These simple touches make the dish pop. They bring color and texture, making the dish more appealing.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures the cauliflower cooks evenly.
- Next, prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup.
Mixing the Sauce
- In a big bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of Sriracha sauce, and 2 tablespoons of honey.
- Add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Whisk everything together until it blends well. The sauce should look smooth and inviting.
Baking Process
- Now, toss the cauliflower florets in the sauce. Make sure every piece gets covered.
- Spread the coated florets in a single layer on the baking sheet. This helps them roast well.
- Roast the cauliflower for 25-30 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking. They should turn golden brown and tender when done.
- Once cooked, take the cauliflower out of the oven. Let it cool slightly before serving.
- For a nice touch, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy your zesty treat!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To achieve the perfect roast, start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat helps the cauliflower get crispy. Spread the florets in a single layer on the baking sheet. This avoids steaming and ensures even cooking. Flip the cauliflower halfway through for an even brown color.
To adjust spice levels, add more or less Sriracha sauce. If you want it milder, reduce the Sriracha by half. You can also add a little extra honey to balance the heat.
Serving Suggestions
For presentation, serve the cauliflower on a large platter. Drizzle some extra honey on top for a sweet touch. Add a splash of Sriracha for those who love heat. Use toothpicks or small skewers for easy serving at parties.
Pair Spicy Sriracha Honey Cauliflower with rice or quinoa for a complete meal. It also goes well with a fresh salad or grilled chicken. Enjoy these bold flavors with friends and family.
Pro Tips
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Sriracha sauce. You can always add more later if you want extra heat.
- Use Fresh Cauliflower: For the best texture and flavor, choose a fresh head of cauliflower with tight, firm florets and vibrant green leaves.
- Crispier Cauliflower: For an extra crispy finish, broil the cauliflower for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa. Consider serving it over a bed of greens for a delicious salad addition.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily switch up the sauce. Try BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor. Buffalo sauce gives a fiery kick. Each choice adds a fun twist to the dish.
You can also add more veggies. Broccoli and carrots work great with the sauce. They add color and nutrients. Mix and match based on what you have in your fridge. This makes the dish even more fun and healthy.
Cooking Methods
If you want a quicker cooking time, try air frying. It gives the cauliflower a nice crunch. Simply toss the florets in the sauce and set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.
Pan-searing is another option. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the coated cauliflower and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Stir often for a golden, crispy texture. This method keeps the flavors vibrant and delicious.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your spicy Sriracha honey cauliflower fresh, follow these steps:
- Let the cauliflower cool completely.
- Place it in an airtight container.
- Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
This helps maintain its flavor and texture. If you want to enjoy it later, avoid leaving it out too long. Bacteria can grow if food sits at room temperature.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to eat your leftovers, here are a couple of easy ways to reheat them:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave Method: Place the cauliflower in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway.
These methods help keep the cauliflower tasty and not soggy. Enjoy your bold and zesty treat!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using. This step helps to avoid excess water during roasting. Frozen florets might need a bit longer to cook. Keep an eye on them to ensure they turn golden.
What can I use instead of honey?
If you want to replace honey, try maple syrup or agave nectar. Both options provide sweetness and work well with the spices. Each will give a slightly different taste, so feel free to experiment.
How to make it vegan-friendly?
To make this dish vegan, simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave. Check that your Sriracha sauce is vegan, as some brands might use honey. This way, you keep all the bold flavors without any animal products.
Cooking & Flavor Questions
How do I adjust the spice level?
To change the spice level, adjust the amount of Sriracha. If you like it milder, start with less Sriracha. You can always add more later. For extra heat, mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
What can I serve with Spicy Sriracha Honey Cauliflower?
This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or as a side to grilled meats. For a fun twist, use toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.
In this blog post, we explored how to make Spicy Sriracha Honey Cauliflower. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting this dish. I shared variations and storage information to help you enjoy your leftovers.
Cooking is fun and creative. With simple swaps, you can make it your own. Try different sauces or serving ideas to mix it up. Enjoy making this dish and impress your friends with your skill

Spicy Sriracha Honey Cauliflower
Ingredients
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 2 green onions sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, Sriracha sauce, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Whisk until well blended.
- Add the cauliflower florets to the bowl and toss them in the sauce until they are evenly coated.
- Spread the coated cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender.
- Remove the cauliflower from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

