Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delicious and nutritious option for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal. These bowls feature roasted cauliflower, crispy chickpeas, and a creamy Green Tahini Sauce that ties everything together beautifully. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, these vegan and gluten-free bowls will impress at any gathering. Plus, with their vibrant flavors and textures, they’re sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Spices: The combination of curry powder, paprika, and cumin creates an aromatic experience that elevates the dish.
• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and about 35 minutes of cooking, you can whip up this meal in under an hour.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out grains or add your favorite veggies to customize each bowl to your taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them perfect for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Nutrient-Packed: Packed with plant-based proteins and healthy fats, this dish is as nourishing as it is satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Mixing bowls
• Blender or mini food processor

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: These allow for even roasting of the cauliflower and chickpeas, ensuring they turn crispy and delicious.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining spices with vegetables or chickpeas before roasting.
• Blender or mini food processor: Essential for creating a smooth Green Tahini Sauce that adds creaminess to your bowls.

Ingredients

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 high temperature will help achieve that perfect roasted flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

• In a mixing bowl, combine curry powder, paprika, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper.
• Spread cauliflower florets on one baking sheet and chickpeas on another.
• Toss cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and chickpeas with the remaining tablespoon of oil.
• Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of spice mixture over chickpeas; toss to coat evenly.
• Sprinkle the remaining spice mixture over the cauliflower; toss until well coated.

Step 3: Roast in the Oven

Place both baking sheets in the oven and set a timer for 30 minutes. After 15 minutes:
Shake the pan of chickpeas gently.
Give the cauliflower a good toss.
Remove chickpeas when the timer goes off; let cauliflower roast for another 5–10 minutes until lightly charred.

Step 4: Make Green Tahini Sauce

While vegetables are roasting:
Combine cilantro leaves, parsley leaves, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper in a blender or mini food processor.
With the motor running, gradually stream in 1/3 cup warm water until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

To serve:
Place ½ cup cooked rice in each bowl (you’ll have four).
Evenly distribute roasted cauliflower and chickpeas over each bowl.
Add optional toppings like 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

Serving Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is all about enhancing their vibrant flavors and textures. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy these bowls.

Add Fresh Veggies

• Cucumbers: Thinly sliced English or Persian cucumbers add a refreshing crunch.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness and color.

Garnish with Herbs

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves bring a bright, herbal flavor that complements the spices.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a fresh element, enhancing the overall taste.

Drizzle Extra Sauce

• Green Tahini Sauce: Drizzling more of this creamy sauce over your bowl elevates all the flavors.
• Spicy Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, a drizzle of sriracha or harissa can add a nice kick.

Serve with Bread

• Pita Bread: Warm pita bread can be served on the side for scooping up the ingredients.
• Flatbreads: Soft flatbreads pair perfectly with the shawarma bowls, making every bite delightful.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

To achieve the ultimate Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and nutritional value.
• Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to modify spice levels based on personal preference for heat and flavor.
• Roast Until Crispy: Ensure cauliflower and chickpeas are roasted until crisp for added texture.
• Use Quality Tahini: High-quality tahini can significantly improve the richness of your Green Tahini Sauce.
• Layer Ingredients Thoughtfully: Layering rice, veggies, and sauces thoughtfully can create an appealing presentation.
• Meal Prep Ahead: Prepare components in advance for quick assembly during busy weekdays.

Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Pair your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls with these delightful side dishes for a complete meal experience.

1. Hummus: This creamy dip made from chickpeas adds protein and pairs well with pita.
2. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing salad made with parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, and lemon juice complements the bowls beautifully.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and are easy to prepare alongside the main dish.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies bring color and additional nutrients to your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette provides a nutritious side option.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies offer a sharp contrast that balances out the rich flavors of the bowls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Boldly Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many ingredients on one sheet can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Use two separate sheets or ensure there’s enough space for airflow.
• Boldly Ignoring Spice Measurements: Not measuring spices accurately can result in bland flavors. Always use the specified amounts for optimal taste.
• Boldly Skipping Preheating the Oven: Cooking in a cold oven can prevent proper roasting. Preheat your oven to 425°F before you start preparing your ingredients.
• Boldly Neglecting to Shake the Pan: Forgetting to shake the chickpeas halfway through cooking may lead to uneven crispiness. Remember to give them a good toss at 15 minutes.
• Boldly Leaving Out Fresh Herbs: Omitting cilantro or parsley can reduce the fresh flavor of your dish. Always include fresh herbs for an extra burst of taste.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• They can last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• These bowls will be good for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat with a splash of water, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delicious vegan and gluten-free meal featuring roasted cauliflower, crispy chickpeas, and a flavorful Green Tahini Sauce served over rice.

Can I customize my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, switch grains, or try different sauces based on your preferences.

How do I make my own Green Tahini Sauce?

Blend tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, salt, black pepper, and warm water until smooth for a delightful sauce that pairs perfectly with your bowls.

Are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls healthy?

Absolutely! These bowls are packed with fiber, protein from chickpeas, and healthy fats from tahini, making them a nutritious option for any meal.

Final Thoughts

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are not only tasty but also adaptable. Feel free to customize them with your favorite veggies or grains. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner! Give this recipe a try and enjoy its vibrant flavors.