Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for anyone seeking a healthy and satisfying meal. This vegan and gluten-free dish is not only visually appealing but also versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. With crispy chickpeas, roasted cauliflower, and a creamy Green Tahini Sauce, these bowls stand out as a wholesome option for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Spices: The combination of curry powder, paprika, and cumin creates a mouthwatering taste that elevates the humble cauliflower.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies and plant-based protein from chickpeas, this dish is a healthy choice for any meal.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal cooking time, you can whip up these bowls in under an hour.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them perfect for weekly meal prep or quick lunches.
- Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite veggies or proteins to make each bowl unique to your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To create delicious Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, having the right tools makes all the difference. Below are essential items that will help you prepare this dish efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheets
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Blender or mini food processor
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheets: Large enough to roast both cauliflower and chickpeas evenly for optimal crispiness.
- Blender or mini food processor: Essential for creating the smooth Green Tahini Sauce that ties the dish together.
Ingredients
For these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls with crispy chickpeas and Green Tahini Sauce, gather the following ingredients:
Spices
- 1 Tbsp. curry powder
- 2 tsp. paprika
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
For Roasting
- 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 large head cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, rinsed, drained, and patted dry
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white basmati rice (sub grain of choice)
Optional Toppings
- Thinly sliced English or Persian cucumber
- 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). This ensures that your vegetables roast perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning Mix
In a bowl, combine:
1. Curry powder
2. Paprika
3. Ground cumin
4. Kosher salt
5. Black pepper
Spread cauliflower florets and chickpeas on separate baking sheets (or one large sheet if preferred). Toss cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and chickpeas with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Step 3: Roast Cauliflower and Chickpeas
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the spice mixture over the chickpeas; toss to coat them evenly. Use the remaining spice mixture for the cauliflower.
Place both baking sheets in the oven:
1. Roast for 30 minutes.
2. After 15 minutes, shake the pan with chickpeas and toss cauliflower.
3. Remove chickpeas when golden brown; let cauliflower roast an additional 5-10 minutes until charred.
Step 4: Make Green Tahini Sauce
Blend together:
1. Fresh cilantro leaves
2. Fresh parsley leaves
3. Tahini
4. Lemon juice
5. Minced garlic
6. Ground cumin
7. Kosher salt
8. Black pepper
With the blender running, gradually add 1/3 cup warm water until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
In four bowls:
1. Place ½ cup cooked rice as a base.
2. Divide roasted cauliflower and chickpeas evenly over rice.
3. Add optional toppings like cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes.
4. Drizzle with generous amounts of Green Tahini Sauce before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls!
How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
Customize with Fresh Vegetables
- Cucumbers: Thinly sliced English or Persian cucumbers add a refreshing crunch.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and color to the bowls.
Add More Protein
- Grilled Tofu: Marinated grilled tofu can enhance the protein content while complementing the flavors.
- Lentils: Cooked lentils provide extra nutrition and texture.
Garnish for Flavor
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley on top for an aromatic finish.
- Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for an extra zing when squeezed over the dish.
Dressing Variations
- Yogurt Sauce: A dollop of dairy-free yogurt sauce can add creaminess and balance the spices.
- Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, drizzle some favorite hot sauce over the top.
How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Creating the perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is delightful every time.
- Roast Until Crispy: Ensure both cauliflower and chickpeas are roasted until crispy for texture.
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to alter spice amounts according to your taste preferences; don’t hesitate to experiment!
- Use Quality Tahini: A good quality tahini will enhance the flavor of your Green Tahini Sauce significantly.
- Serve Warm: These bowls are best enjoyed warm, so serve them right after assembling for maximum flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Pairing side dishes with your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls can create a more fulfilling meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Hummus: Creamy hummus pairs well with pita bread for dipping.
- Tabbouleh Salad: A fresh tabbouleh salad adds brightness and complements the spices in the bowls.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can provide additional protein and a nutty flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add variety and nutrition to your meal.
- Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is great for scooping up all the delicious ingredients in your bowl.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves: These provide a delightful Mediterranean touch that complements the flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls even more delicious and enjoyable. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the spice mix: Not using the spice mixture evenly on both the cauliflower and chickpeas can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to coat them well for enhanced taste.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many vegetables on one sheet can cause steaming instead of roasting. Use separate sheets or ensure there’s enough space for even roasting.
- Not preheating the oven: Starting in a cold oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 425°F for crispy textures.
- Ignoring optional toppings: Skipping toppings like cucumber and cherry tomatoes misses extra freshness. Include these for added flavor and nutrition.
- Forgetting to shake the chickpeas: Not shaking or tossing the chickpeas halfway through can prevent even crispiness. Remember to give them a good shake at the 15-minute mark.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in airtight containers.
- Keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
- These bowls can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed, until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls that might help you.
Can I customize my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or grains. Quinoa or farro work great as substitutes for rice.
Are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
How do I make the Green Tahini Sauce?
To prepare the sauce, blend tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, cilantro, and parsley with warm water until smooth.
What other proteins can I add?
You can include grilled chicken or tofu for added protein if desired. Just be sure to adjust seasonings accordingly.
How long does it take to prepare Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?
The total time is around 50 minutes—15 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cooking.
Final Thoughts
These Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are not only flavorful but also versatile! You can easily customize them with different grains and toppings based on your preferences. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, you’ll love how satisfying they are. Try this delightful recipe today!
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a vibrant and nutritious meal option that beautifully combines roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas with a creamy Green Tahini Sauce. This vegan and gluten-free dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas
- 2 cups cooked white basmati rice
- 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
- 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
- Thinly sliced English or Persian cucumber (optional)
- Halved cherry tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, mix spices: curry powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Toss cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons olive oil and chickpeas with 1 tablespoon olive oil separately. Coat chickpeas with 1 tablespoon spice mixture; use the remaining spices for the cauliflower.
- Roast both on separate baking sheets for about 30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- For the Green Tahini Sauce, blend all sauce ingredients together with warm water until smooth.
- Assemble bowls by placing rice at the base and topping with roasted cauliflower and chickpeas. Drizzle with the Green Tahini Sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 375mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
