ROASTED CAULIFLOWER WITH GREMOLATA BREAD CRUMBS

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• TheThinChef's Notes:
  Roasting the cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness, and the bits that turn dark brown are irresistible. Topped with crispy panko swirled with fresh parsley, garlic, and lemon zest, this cauliflower is a lovely side dish—even for people who think they don't like the knobby white veggie. - TheThinChef
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Serves 6

2 large heads cauliflower

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1/2 teaspoon coarse salt, divided

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup panko (Japanese bread crumbs)

Zest of 1 lemon

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Trim tough stem and core from cauliflower and discard. Using a paring knife, cut cauliflower into smaller spears. Place in a large bowl. Add 1/4 cup oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper; toss to combine.
3. Spread cauliflower out on 2 large, rimmed baking sheets. Roast until edges start to brown, about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
4. Meanwhile, heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add panko and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and stir to coat in oil. Cook, stirring constantly, until bread crumbs are golden. Add lemon zest and garlic and toss until mixture is very fragrant and bread crumbs are golden brown, about 2 minutes. Place in a medium bowl and add parsley, stirring to combine. Set aside.
5. Remove cauliflower from oven and place on serving platter. Top with bread crumbs and serve immediately.