Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delicious and healthy option for any meal! These bowls feature roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas, all drizzled with a creamy Green Tahini Sauce. They are vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these bowls are sure to impress with their vibrant flavors and textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-packed: The combination of spices creates a delicious taste that elevates the humble cauliflower.
- Healthy and nutritious: Packed with fiber and plant-based protein, these bowls support a balanced diet.
- Quick preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a wholesome meal ready in no time.
- Versatile serving options: Customize your bowls with fresh veggies or grains to suit your taste preferences.
- Meal prep friendly: Make ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheets
- Mixing bowls
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring spoons
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheets: Ensure even roasting of cauliflower and chickpeas for optimal texture.
- Blender or food processor: Essential for creating the smooth Green Tahini Sauce that ties the dish together.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements help achieve balanced flavors in your spice blend.
Ingredients
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls with crispy chickpeas and Green Tahini Sauce. These vegan and gluten-free bowls are perfect for meal prep lunch or easy weeknight dinner.
For the Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpeas
- 1 Tbsp. curry powder
- 2 tsp. paprika
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 large head cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, rinsed, drained, and patted dry
For Serving
- 2 cups cooked white basmati rice (sub grain of choice)
- Optional toppings: thinly sliced English or Persian cucumber and halved cherry tomatoes
For the Green Tahini Sauce
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
- 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp. minced fresh garlic
- 1/4 tsp. ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp. each kosher salt and black pepper
How to Make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting.
Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower and Chickpeas
- In a mixing bowl, combine curry powder, paprika, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Spread chopped cauliflower on one baking sheet.
- Spread chickpeas on another baking sheet (or use one large sheet if space allows).
- Toss cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of olive oil; toss chickpeas with remaining tablespoon of oil.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of spice mixture over chickpeas; toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle remaining spice mixture over cauliflower; toss well.
Step 3: Roast in the Oven
Place both baking sheets in the oven:
– Set timer for 30 minutes.
– After 15 minutes, shake the chickpea pan gently and give the cauliflower a good toss.
– When timer goes off for chickpeas, remove them from the oven; let cauliflower roast an additional 5 to 10 minutes until lightly charred.
Step 4: Make Green Tahini Sauce
In a blender or mini food processor:
– Combine cilantro leaves, parsley leaves, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper.
– While blending, gradually stream in 1/3 cup warm water until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
In four bowls:
– Place 1/2 cup cooked rice at the bottom of each bowl.
– Top with an even distribution of roasted cauliflower and chickpeas.
– Add optional cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes if desired.
– Drizzle generously with Green Tahini Sauce before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls!
How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are versatile and can be personalized according to your taste. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
Toppings
- Fresh Herbs: Add chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Vegetables: Include thinly sliced cucumbers or halved cherry tomatoes for added crunch and flavor.
- Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sesame seeds for a delightful crunch.
Sauces
- Green Tahini Sauce: Drizzle this creamy sauce over your bowls for enhanced flavor.
- Hot Sauce: If you like heat, a dash of your favorite hot sauce can add a spicy kick.
Garnishes
- Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over the bowls for brightness.
- Avocado Slices: Add creamy avocado slices for extra richness.
How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
To make your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls even better, consider these tips. They will help you achieve the best results every time.
- Flavoring: Ensure you coat the cauliflower and chickpeas thoroughly with spices. This enhances their taste during roasting.
- Even Roasting: Use separate baking sheets for cauliflower and chickpeas if possible—this allows for even cooking.
- Monitor Cook Time: Keep an eye on the cauliflower; it should be charred but not burnt. Adjust the time as needed.
- Blend Well: For the Green Tahini Sauce, blend until completely smooth. This ensures a creamy texture that coats well.
Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls pair beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some top recommendations to complement your meal.
- Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing salad made with chopped parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat, offering a bright contrast.
- Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up the bowls and adds a lovely texture.
- Hummus: Creamy hummus served on the side is great for dipping veggies or pita.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing can enhance the flavors of your bowls.
- Grilled Eggplant: Smoky grilled eggplant slices add depth and richness when served alongside.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you get the best results.
- Skipping the spice blend: Not using enough spices can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to coat the cauliflower well with the spice mixture for a delicious taste.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many ingredients on one sheet can cause steaming rather than roasting. Use separate sheets or spread the ingredients out for even cooking.
- Ignoring the oven temperature: Cooking at too low a temperature may result in soggy vegetables. Preheat your oven to 425°F for crispy results.
- Forgetting about the sauce: The Green Tahini Sauce is essential for flavor. Don’t skip it; blend all ingredients thoroughly for a smooth, creamy dressing.
- Not customizing toppings: Sticking to just one type of topping can limit flavor. Experiment with various toppings like pickles or nuts for added texture and taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls in airtight containers in the fridge.
- They will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers.
- They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm bowls for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls.
Can I make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls ahead of time?
Yes, these bowls are great for meal prep! You can roast the vegetables and prepare the sauce a day in advance.
What can I substitute for tahini in the Green Tahini Sauce?
You can use sunflower seed butter or almond butter as alternatives if you’re allergic to sesame.
Are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, perfect for all diets.
How can I customize my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?
Feel free to add your favorite veggies, grains, or proteins. Roasted sweet potatoes or quinoa work wonderfully!
Can I use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cauliflower can be used but may need less cooking time since it’s often pre-cooked before freezing.
Final Thoughts
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With crispy chickpeas and flavorful tahini sauce, they make a satisfying meal any day of the week. Feel free to customize your bowls with different toppings and grains to suit your taste!
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a vibrant and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Featuring roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas, these bowls are drizzled with a creamy Green Tahini Sauce that adds a burst of flavor. Ideal for vegan and gluten-free diets, they can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making them an excellent choice for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep. Customize your bowl with fresh veggies and grains to suit your taste, ensuring every bite is packed with nutrition and taste.
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas
- 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 Tbsp. curry powder
- 2 tsp. paprika
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 2 cups cooked white basmati rice (or grain of choice)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
- 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp. minced fresh garlic
- 1/4 tsp. ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp. each kosher salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine spices. Toss chopped cauliflower with 2 Tbsp oil and half of the spice mix; toss chickpeas with remaining oil and spices.
- Spread cauliflower and chickpeas on separate baking sheets.
- Roast for 30 minutes; shake chickpeas halfway through.
- Blend Green Tahini Sauce ingredients until smooth.
- Assemble bowls by layering rice, roasted vegetables, and topping with sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
