Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make for a satisfying meal. These bowls feature roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas, all drizzled with a creamy Green Tahini Sauce. Perfect for lunch meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, they are both vegan and gluten-free. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make these bowls not only tasty but also visually appealing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and plant-based protein, these bowls provide essential nutrients without compromising on flavor.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, you can whip up these delicious bowls in just about 50 minutes.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the bowls with your favorite toppings like cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls store well in the refrigerator, making them ideal for preparing ahead of time.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices in the roasted cauliflower and chickpeas delivers an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this recipe, gather your tools to make preparation smooth and efficient. Having the right equipment will enhance your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheets
- Blender or mini food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheets: Ensure even roasting of the cauliflower and chickpeas for maximum crispiness.
- Blender or mini food processor: Helps create a silky-smooth Green Tahini Sauce that perfectly complements the dish.
- Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining spices and tossing ingredients without making a mess.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors in your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls.
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.
Spices
- 1 Tbsp. curry powder
- 2 tsp. paprika
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
For the Roasted Vegetables
- 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
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
For Green Tahini Sauce
- 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) so it’s ready for roasting.
Step 2: Prepare the Spices
Combine curry powder, paprika, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
Step 3: Roast Cauliflower and Chickpeas
Spread cauliflower florets on one baking sheet and chickpeas on another.
– Toss cauliflower with 2 Tbsp. olive oil.
– Toss chickpeas with remaining 1 Tbsp. olive oil.
– Sprinkle 1 Tbsp. spice mixture over chickpeas; toss to coat.
– Sprinkle remaining spice mixture over cauliflower; toss to coat.
Place both baking sheets in the oven for 30 minutes. After 15 minutes:
– Shake the pan of chickpeas.
– Toss the cauliflower well.
Remove chickpeas from oven when timer goes off; let cauliflower roast for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until lightly charred.
Step 4: Make Green Tahini Sauce
In a blender or mini food processor:
– Combine tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper.
– Gradually stream in 1/3 cup warm water while blending until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
In four servings:
– Place 1/2 cup cooked rice in each bowl.
– Top each bowl evenly with roasted cauliflower and chickpeas.
– Add optional cucumber slices or halved cherry tomatoes if desired.
Drizzle Green Tahini Sauce over each bowl before serving. Enjoy your delicious Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls!
How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Serving Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is a delightful experience, as they are both visually appealing and packed with flavor. You can customize each bowl to suit your taste preferences, making them perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Add Fresh Vegetables
- Cucumbers: Thinly sliced English or Persian cucumbers add crunch and freshness.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness and color.
Garnish with Herbs
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves enhance the bowl’s flavor with their aromatic touch.
- Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a vibrant green element that brightens the dish.
Drizzle with Extra Sauce
- Green Tahini Sauce: A generous drizzle of this creamy sauce elevates the bowls, adding richness.
- Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy some heat, a splash of hot sauce can spice things up.
Serve with Lemon Wedges
- Lemon Wedges: Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the bowls enhances the flavors and adds brightness.
Pair with Pita Bread
- Warm Pita Bread: Serving warm pita on the side allows for a fun way to scoop up the ingredients in the bowl.
How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Creating the perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is all about balance and flavor. Here are some tips to help you nail this recipe every time.
- Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices enhance the flavor significantly. Make sure your spices are not expired for optimal taste.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give cauliflower and chickpeas space on baking sheets for even roasting. This helps achieve that crispy texture.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to tweak the spice blend according to your preference. More cumin or paprika can cater to your personal palate.
- Blend Sauce Smoothly: Ensure your Green Tahini Sauce is blended well. The smoother it is, the better it coats your ingredients.
Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Pairing side dishes with your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement this dish beautifully.
- Hummus: Creamy hummus offers a delicious dip that pairs well with pita bread or fresh vegetables.
- Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat adds a zesty contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide additional flavors and textures to your meal.
- Fattoush Salad: A tangy salad featuring crispy pita chips and seasonal veggies that brightens up the whole dish.
- Quinoa Tabbouleh: A gluten-free twist on classic tabbouleh, using quinoa instead of bulgur for added protein.
- Mediterranean Olives: A small bowl of mixed olives brings briny richness that complements the bowls nicely.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These flavorful bites make an excellent finger food alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Skipping the spice mix: Not using the full spice mix can lead to bland cauliflower and chickpeas. Always coat them well for maximum flavor.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many ingredients on one sheet can cause steaming instead of roasting. Use separate sheets or batches if necessary.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness and enhance flavors. Don’t skip the cilantro and parsley; they make a big difference!
- Underestimating tahini sauce: A good tahini sauce elevates the dish. Blend it until smooth and adjust the lemon juice to your taste for a zesty kick.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking times may vary based on your oven. Keep an eye on them to ensure they are perfectly roasted without burning.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Allow components (cauliflower, chickpeas, rice) to cool before sealing.
Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Make sure to label containers with dates for easy tracking.
Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place bowls in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delicious vegan dish featuring roasted cauliflower and chickpeas, served over rice with a flavorful tahini sauce.
Can I use other grains instead of rice?
Yes! You can substitute white basmati rice with quinoa, couscous, or any grain of your choice for added variety.
How can I customize my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?
Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also switch up the sauces by trying hummus or yogurt-based dressings.
Are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How do I enhance the flavor of my tahini sauce?
You can add more lemon juice or even some spicy elements like cayenne pepper or sriracha to give your tahini sauce an extra zing!
Final Thoughts
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that appeal to everyone, whether you’re vegan or not. They are perfect for meal prep or quick dinners after a busy day. Don’t hesitate to customize these bowls with your favorite toppings and grains. Give this recipe a try today!
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a vibrant and satisfying meal that combines roasted cauliflower, crispy chickpeas, and a creamy Green Tahini Sauce. Perfect for lunch meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, these bowls are not only vegan and gluten-free but also packed with essential nutrients. The delightful mix of spices gives each bite an explosion of flavor, making it a favorite for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy yet delicious dish. Customize your bowl with fresh vegetables and herbs for added texture and taste. Enjoy a colorful presentation that’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate!
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 1 can chickpeas
- 2 cups cooked white basmati rice
- 1/4 cup tahini
- Fresh herbs (cilantro and parsley)
- 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 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp. minced fresh garlic
- 1/4 tsp. ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Mix spices in a bowl: curry powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil and half the spice mix. Spread on a baking sheet.
- Toss chickpeas with olive oil and remaining spices; spread on another baking sheet.
- Roast both for 30 minutes—shaking the chickpeas halfway through. Remove chickpeas when golden; roast cauliflower until charred.
- Blend tahini sauce ingredients until smooth.
- Assemble bowls: layer rice, roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, and drizzle with tahini sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 14g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
