Step 1

Depending upon the size of your pan, coat 1 or 2 rimmed baking sheets with nonstick spray. You need enough pan surface area to hold all of the florets in a single layer without touching. Position a rack in the center of the oven (if using 1 baking sheet) or the upper and lower thirds (if using 2 baking sheets) and preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

Step 2

Cut off the stem end of the cauliflower head so that you have a flat base.

Step 3

Stand it up on the base then cut it into four even wedges, slicing from the top of the head down through the stem. Trim away the inner core areas, leaving most of the wedge intact.

Step 4

Next, starting at one of the flat sides, cut the wedge into ½ inch “steaks” so that you have maximum flat surface area. Some of the florets will fall away. With the knife or your fingers, break up any remaining florets that are stuck together. If any florets are wider than 1 1/2 inches, slice them in half again (the goal is to maximize flat surface area, for the best caramelization).

Step 5

Transfer the florets to a baking sheet. Drizzle with the oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper and the paprika and/or Italian seasoning (if using). Toss to evenly coat. Spread the florets into a single layer, dividing them evenly between the two pans if needed. For max caramelization, flip the florets so that the widest, flattest sides are touching the surface of the pan.

Step 6

Roast the cauliflower until it is dark and crispy at the ends and caramelized in the center, about 22 to 30 minutes, depending upon your oven's power and how closely the florets are spaced on the pan. Halfway through the baking time, toss the florets and spread them back into a single layer, rotate the baking sheet(s) 180 degrees F, and (if using 2 pans) switch their positions on the upper and lower racks. Sprinkle with parmesan (if using) and additional salt to taste. Inhale immediately.