Quick-pickling cauliflower in a curry brine before roasting adds incredible layers of flavor. Slideshow: How to Make Pickles
How to Make It
Prepare a large ice bath. In a large saucepan of salted boiling water, blanch the cauliflower until just starting to soften, 1 to 2 minutes. Drain and transfer to the ice bath to cool. Drain again.
In a large saucepan, combine the vinegar with the water, sugar, curry powder and 1 tablespoon of salt and bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Remove from the heat, stir in the cauliflower and let cool completely. Refrigerate for 1 hour. Drain the cauliflower; reserve the brine to pickle more vegetables, if desired.
Preheat the oven to 375°. On a large rimmed baking sheet, toss the cauliflower with the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 35 minutes, stirring once or twice, until tender and browned in spots. Transfer the cauliflower to a platter and serve.