Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delightful and nutritious dish that brings bold flavors to your table. These vibrant bowls feature crispy chickpeas and roasted cauliflower, all drizzled with a creamy Green Tahini Sauce. Whether you’re preparing for meal prep or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, these bowls fit the bill perfectly. They are vegan, gluten-free, and packed with wholesome ingredients, making them a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of only 50 minutes, these bowls are perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices creates a deliciously aromatic experience that elevates your meals.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, this dish is as good for you as it is tasty.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap out grains or toppings to suit your dietary preferences or whatever you have on hand.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe yields four servings, making it ideal for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Sheets: Perfect for roasting vegetables evenly in the oven while achieving that desirable crispiness.
• Blender or Food Processor: Essential for quickly creating a smooth Green Tahini Sauce without any lumps.
• Mixing Bowls: Helps in combining spices and tossing ingredients together easily.

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 (or grain of choice)
• Optional toppings: thinly sliced English or Persian cucumber and halved cherry tomatoes

Green Tahini Sauce Ingredients

• 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 step ensures that your vegetables will roast perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Spices

In a mixing bowl, combine the curry powder, paprika, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper to create a spice mixture.

Step 3: Roast the Cauliflower and Chickpeas

Spread the chopped cauliflower on one baking sheet. On another baking sheet (or the same one if space allows), spread out the chickpeas. Toss the cauliflower with 2 Tbsp. of olive oil and sprinkle half of the spice mixture over it. Drizzle the remaining 1 Tbsp. of olive oil over the chickpeas and sprinkle them with 1 Tbsp. of the spice mixture as well.

Place both baking sheets in the oven. Set a timer for 30 minutes:
– After 15 minutes, give both trays a good toss to ensure even cooking.
– Remove chickpeas from the oven after 30 minutes; let cauliflower roast an additional 5-10 minutes until lightly charred at tips.

Step 4: Make the Green Tahini Sauce

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

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

In four serving bowls:
– Place 1/2 cup cooked rice in each bowl.
– Divide roasted cauliflower and chickpeas evenly among them.
– Add optional cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes if desired.
– Drizzle generously with Green Tahini Sauce before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls!

How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. They are perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Cucumber: Thinly slice English or Persian cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
• Tomatoes: Halve cherry tomatoes to add sweetness and color to your bowls.

Include Extra Greens

• Fresh Herbs: Top with fresh cilantro or parsley leaves for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spinach or Kale: Add a handful of spinach or sautéed kale for extra vitamins.

Drizzle More Sauce

• Extra Green Tahini Sauce: For those who love a creamy texture, drizzle more Green Tahini Sauce over the top.
• Chili Sauce: If you enjoy spice, add a dollop of chili sauce or harissa for a kick.

Serve with Bread

• Pita Bread: Warm pita bread on the side allows for dipping and adds a nice texture.
• Flatbreads: Consider serving with flatbreads to scoop up the delicious ingredients.

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How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Creating the ultimate Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is simple with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices bring vibrant flavors. Store your spices properly to maintain their potency.
• Cook Rice Properly: Ensure your basmati rice is fluffy by rinsing it well before cooking and following package instructions.
• Roast Until Crispy: Roast cauliflower until it’s lightly charred; this adds depth of flavor and a pleasing texture.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to customize with different toppings like pickled vegetables or olives for added variety.

Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Pairing side dishes with your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls can make the meal even better. Here are some excellent options:

1. Hummus: Creamy hummus complements the flavors of the bowls beautifully. Serve it as a dip.
2. Tabbouleh Salad: This fresh salad made from bulgur, parsley, and tomatoes adds brightness to the meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables enhances the dish’s overall appeal.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn provides a lovely contrast in flavor and texture.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing makes for a nutritious side.
6. Pickled Red Onions: The tangy crunch of pickled onions adds an exciting burst of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the spice mix: Not using the full spice mix can result in bland flavors. Be sure to coat both the cauliflower and chickpeas thoroughly.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: If you overcrowd, your vegetables may steam instead of roast. Use separate baking sheets or spread them out evenly.
• Ignoring the cooking times: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your chickpeas and cauliflower to prevent burning or undercooking.
• Not preparing the Green Tahini Sauce properly: Failing to blend the sauce until smooth can leave it chunky. Make sure to add enough water gradually while blending.
• Neglecting toppings: Skipping optional toppings like cucumber or cherry tomatoes can make your bowls less vibrant. They add freshness and crunch, so consider including them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Allow ingredients to cool completely before sealing the containers.

Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Separate the Green Tahini Sauce and store it in a small container.

Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, spread on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions often asked about Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls.

Can I use other vegetables in my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Yes! Feel free to substitute or add other roasted vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for more variety.

How spicy are these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

The spice level is mild due to the curry powder and paprika. Adjust spices according to your preference if you like it spicier.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bowls are perfect for meal prep. Just store ingredients separately until ready to serve.

What can I serve with Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

These bowls pair well with pita bread, hummus, or a fresh salad for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different grains, veggies, or sauces based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for meal prep or quick dinners!