Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delightful way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. Packed with flavor, these bowls feature roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas, drizzled with a creamy Green Tahini Sauce. They are perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners, making them ideal for busy lifestyles. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply looking for a tasty dish, Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls deliver on all fronts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Filling: These bowls are loaded with veggies and protein, keeping you full longer.
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or substitute grains to suit your taste preferences.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free: A wholesome option for those following plant-based or gluten-free diets.
- Flavor-Packed: The spices used in this recipe create an explosion of flavors that will satisfy your cravings.
Tools and Preparation
To make the perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheets
- Blender or mini food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheets: Ideal for roasting vegetables evenly, ensuring your cauliflower gets perfectly charred.
- Blender or mini food processor: Essential for creating a smooth and creamy tahini sauce without lumps.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for combining spices and tossing ingredients without mess.
- Knife and cutting board: Necessary for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
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). This high temperature is key to achieving crispy roasted cauliflower and chickpeas.
Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mix
In a bowl, combine:
1. Curry powder
2. Paprika
3. Ground cumin
4. Kosher salt
5. Black pepper
Spread cauliflower florets and chickpeas onto two separate baking sheets (or one large sheet if space allows).
Step 3: Season the Vegetables
Toss the cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of olive oil from the total amount listed above. Toss the chickpeas with the remaining tablespoon of oil.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the spice mixture over the chickpeas; toss to coat well. Use the remaining spice mix on the cauliflower.
Step 4: Roast in the Oven
Place both baking sheets in your preheated oven:
1. Set a timer for 30 minutes.
2. After 15 minutes, shake the pan of chickpeas gently; toss the cauliflower as well.
3. When time is up, remove chickpeas from oven; let cauliflower roast for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until lightly charred at edges.
Step 5: Make Green Tahini Sauce
While veggies are roasting, prepare your sauce by blending:
– Cilantro leaves
– Parsley leaves
– Tahini
– Lemon juice
– Minced garlic
– Ground cumin
– Salt
– Pepper
While blending, gradually stream in about 1/3 cup warm water until smooth.
Step 6: Assemble Your Bowls
In four bowls:
1. Place ½ cup cooked rice as a base.
2. Evenly distribute roasted cauliflower and chickpeas on top.
3. Add optional cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes if desired.
4. Drizzle generously with Green Tahini Sauce before serving.
Enjoy these vibrant Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls packed with flavor!
How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are serving them for a meal prep lunch or an easy weeknight dinner, these bowls can be customized to suit your taste and preferences.
Add Fresh Vegetables
- Cucumbers: Thinly sliced English or Persian cucumbers add a refreshing crunch.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and color to the bowl.
Incorporate Extra Proteins
- Chickpeas: While already included, adding more crispy chickpeas can boost protein content.
- Tofu: For additional protein, try marinating and roasting tofu cubes as a topping.
Include Nuts and Seeds
- Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts provide a rich, buttery flavor.
- Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for extra texture and flavor.
Drizzle More Sauce
- Extra Green Tahini Sauce: Add more sauce for added creaminess and flavor.
- Hot Sauce: A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can spice things up.
How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Creating the perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is all about balance and flavor. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:
- Spices: Use fresh spices for the seasoning mix to ensure vibrant flavors.
- Roast Until Crispy: Make sure both cauliflower and chickpeas are roasted until crispy for the best texture.
- Use Warm Water in Sauce: Mixing tahini sauce with warm water helps achieve a smooth consistency.
- Layer Ingredients Thoughtfully: Start with rice, then add vegetables, proteins, and finish with sauce for an appealing presentation.
Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Pairing side dishes with your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Pita Bread: Soft pita bread is perfect for scooping up the delicious components of the bowl.
- Hummus: Creamy hummus adds richness and pairs well with the spices in the bowl.
- Tabbouleh Salad: This fresh parsley salad adds brightness and complements the flavors of the shawarma bowls.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide additional nutrients and flavors.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad is a nutritious option that can bring extra texture.
- Olive Oil Drizzled Greens: Simple greens drizzled with olive oil offer freshness alongside the hearty bowls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.
- Skipping the spice mix: Don’t forget to season your cauliflower and chickpeas properly. This adds essential flavor, so be sure to coat them well with the spice mixture.
- Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven before roasting. This ensures even cooking and gets those delicious crispy edges on your cauliflower and chickpeas.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Avoid placing too many vegetables on one tray. Spacing them out allows for better airflow, resulting in a perfect roast.
- Using cold water for tahini sauce: When blending the Green Tahini Sauce, using warm water helps achieve a smooth consistency. Cold water can make it clumpy and hard to blend.
- Neglecting optional toppings: Don’t skip on fresh toppings like cucumber and cherry tomatoes. They add crunch and freshness, enhancing the overall dish.
- Rushing the cooling time: Allow your roasted ingredients to cool slightly before assembling your bowls. This prevents the rice from becoming soggy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Keep components separate (rice, veggies, sauce) if possible for best texture.
Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Consider freezing rice separately to maintain its quality.
Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of water if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls.
Can I use other vegetables in Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?
You can definitely swap in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Just ensure they roast well within the same time frame.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is already gluten-free! Just confirm that the spices and tahini you use are certified gluten-free.
Can I meal prep Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?
Absolutely! These bowls are perfect for meal prep. Prepare all components ahead of time, store separately, and assemble when ready to eat.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is mild but flavorful; you can adjust by adding more paprika or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
What can I serve with Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?
These bowls pair well with pita bread or a side salad for a complete Mediterranean experience.
Final Thoughts
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls offer an exciting blend of flavors that’s both satisfying and customizable. You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or switching up the sauce. Enjoy these delightful bowls as a hearty meal any day of the week!
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a vibrant and satisfying meal that combines roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas with a luscious Green Tahini Sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with plant-based protein and nutrients, making it an excellent choice for vegans and anyone seeking a healthy option. Perfect for meal prep or quick dinners, these bowls allow for customization with your favorite toppings, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or a fresh Mediterranean-inspired dish, these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls deliver on all fronts.
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 Tbsp. curry powder
- 2 tsp. paprika
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked white basmati rice
- Green Tahini Sauce (made with tahini, fresh herbs, lemon juice, garlic)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Mix curry powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Toss cauliflower and chickpeas separately with olive oil and spice mix.
- Roast on baking sheets for about 30 minutes until crispy.
- While they roast, blend tahini sauce ingredients until smooth.
- Assemble bowls with rice as the base and top with roasted veggies.
- Drizzle generously with Green Tahini Sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 14g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
