Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal. These bowls feature roasted cauliflower, crispy chickpeas, and a creamy Green Tahini Sauce, making them not only delicious but also nutritious. Perfect for meal prep lunches or an easy weeknight dinner, these vegan and gluten-free bowls are a fantastic way to enjoy wholesome ingredients. The standout feature is the unique blend of spices that give this dish its Middle Eastern flair.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Roasted Vegetables
• For Serving
• For the Green Tahini Sauce
• How to Make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Spices and Vegetables
• Step 3: Roast the Vegetables
• Step 4: Make Green Tahini Sauce
• Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
• How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Add Fresh Greens
• Include Additional Vegetables
• Top with Nuts or Seeds
• Drizzle More Sauce
• How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I customize my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?
• How do I make my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls spicier?
• Are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?
• How can I store leftover Green Tahini Sauce?
• Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The combination of spices in the Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls creates a rich flavor that will impress your taste buds.
• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have these bowls ready in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile options: You can customize these bowls with your favorite grains and toppings, ensuring everyone gets a meal they love.
• Nutritious and filling: Packed with vegetables and protein-rich chickpeas, these bowls provide a satisfying and healthy option for any meal.
• Meal prep friendly: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them an excellent choice for planned meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Mixing bowls
• Blender or food processor
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Essential for roasting the cauliflower and chickpeas evenly for that perfect crispiness.
• Blender or food processor: Necessary for creating a smooth Green Tahini Sauce that ties all the flavors together.

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 Vegetables

• 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 temperature is ideal for roasting vegetables until they are perfectly crisp.

Step 2: Prepare the Spices and Vegetables

• In a medium bowl, combine curry powder, paprika, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper.
• Spread chopped cauliflower florets on one baking sheet.
• Place rinsed chickpeas on another baking sheet.
• Toss the cauliflower with 2 Tbsp. of olive oil and sprinkle half of the spice mixture over it. Toss well to coat.
• Drizzle remaining olive oil over chickpeas and sprinkle them with 1 Tbsp. of spice mixture. Toss to coat.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

• Place both baking sheets in the oven. Set a timer for 30 minutes.
• After 15 minutes, shake the pan of chickpeas to ensure even cooking. Toss cauliflower as well.
• Once done, remove chickpeas when golden brown; let cauliflower roast for an additional 5–10 minutes until charred at tips.

Step 4: Make Green Tahini Sauce

• In a blender or food processor, add 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

• Place 1/2 cup cooked rice in four bowls.
• Evenly divide roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas among each bowl.
• Add optional cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes as desired.
• Drizzle with 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 tailored to your taste. Here are some serving suggestions that enhance the flavors and textures of this dish.

Add Fresh Greens

• Spinach or Kale: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or sautéed kale for added nutrients and a pop of color.
• Mixed Greens: A bed of mixed greens adds a crisp texture and balances the warm roasted ingredients.

Include Additional Vegetables

• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp bite that complements the spices.
• Bell Peppers: Roasted or fresh bell peppers provide sweetness and crunch.

Top with Nuts or Seeds

• Toasted Almonds: Chopped toasted almonds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling sesame seeds enhances the tahini sauce’s nuttiness.

Drizzle More Sauce

• Extra Green Tahini Sauce: Drizzle more of the Green Tahini Sauce over the bowls for an added creamy texture.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, a few drops of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the dish.

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How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Creating the perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is all about balance and flavor. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is delightful every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the overall flavor and nutrition of your bowls.
• Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to tweak the spice levels according to your preference. Add more cumin for warmth or paprika for smokiness.
• Cook Until Crispy: Make sure the cauliflower is lightly charred for optimal flavor. This adds depth to each bite.
• Experiment with Grains: Try different grains like quinoa or farro instead of basmati rice for varied textures and flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Pairing side dishes with Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this main course perfectly.

1. Hummus: Creamy hummus pairs well as a dip, adding richness to your meal.
2. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing tabbouleh salad made with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat offers bright flavors.
3. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini provides a smoky flavor that complements roasted vegetables beautifully.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes add sweetness and fiber, balancing the savory elements in your bowl.
5. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with lemon dressing is quick to prepare and adds a fluffy texture.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled vegetables offer acidity that cuts through the richness of tahini sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your ingredients, especially your tahini sauce, are at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Avoid placing too many cauliflower florets and chickpeas on a single sheet. This can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Use multiple sheets if necessary.
• Skipping the spice mix: Don’t forget to use the spice mixture generously on both vegetables. It enhances flavor significantly.
• Not letting the chickpeas dry: Patting the chickpeas dry is crucial. This step ensures they become crispy during roasting.
• Ignoring optional toppings: Enhance your bowls with fresh veggies like cucumber and tomatoes for added crunch and nutrition.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Ensure everything is cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Separate the tahini sauce in a small container for best results.

Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Spread contents on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls.

Can I customize my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Yes! You can add different vegetables or grains based on your preference. Try quinoa or farro as alternatives to rice.

How do I make my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls spicier?

Add more paprika or include diced jalapeños when preparing the vegetables for roasting to increase heat levels.

Are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is entirely gluten-free as it uses rice and does not include any gluten-containing ingredients.

How can I store leftover Green Tahini Sauce?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir well before using again.

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

While fresh cauliflower yields better texture, you can use frozen if that’s what you have on hand. Just ensure it’s thawed and drained well before seasoning and roasting.

Final Thoughts

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. They are versatile, allowing you to customize with various toppings and grains according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; you’re bound to enjoy its deliciousness!