Sometimes the trickiest part about putting out a meal isn’t making the food, but timing it so everything is ready at the same time. However, you can really increase your chances of getting it right when you include a side dish that can be made well ahead of time and served at room temperature.
Preheat your over to 450 degrees and cut a head of cauliflower into small florets. Toss with some olive oil and salt and pepper and then roast for approximately 40 minutes, or until it’s caramelized around the edges.
Transfer to a large bowl, let cool for 10 minutes and then stir together with a large handful of chopped mint.
If you’re eating within a few hours, leave at room temperature, otherwise refrigerate until an hour before you need it. Either way, give it a good squeeze of lemon before serving. Or, if you’re really feeling it, prep a sauce with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper to puddle under the cauliflower on a platter.