Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

If you’re looking for a vibrant and delicious meal that’s both satisfying and healthy, you’ve come to the right place! These Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to whip up. With crispy chickpeas, roasted cauliflower, and a creamy Green Tahini Sauce, this dish has become a staple in my kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, these bowls are perfect for any occasion.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can prep everything ahead of time for lunch or dinner, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love the flavors in these bowls; it’s a great way to sneak in veggies!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep all the ingredients in advance for effortless lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: With its balance of spices and the creamy tahini sauce, every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this dish. Let’s gather what you’ll need for these fantastic Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls!

For the Roasted Veggies

• 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 (or 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

Variations

One of the best things about these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is how flexible they are! Feel free to mix things up based on your tastes or what you have available.

• Swap the grain: Use quinoa, farro, or even cauliflower rice instead of basmati rice for a different base.
• Change up the veggies: Add roasted sweet potatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
• Add some crunch: Top with crunchy nuts like almonds or pistachios for an added texture boost.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.

How to Make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key to getting that lovely char on your cauliflower and crispy texture on your chickpeas.

Step 2: Seasoning Time

In a bowl, combine curry powder, paprika, cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. This spice mix brings depth to our roasted veggies! Spread the cauliflower florets and chickpeas onto two separate baking sheets (or one large one if you have space). Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the cauliflower and toss well to coat. Toss the chickpeas with the remaining tablespoon of oil along with 1 tablespoon of your spice mixture.

Step 3: Roast Away

Place both baking sheets in the oven and set your timer for 30 minutes. Halfway through at 15 minutes, give those chickpeas a gentle shake and toss the cauliflower again; this ensures even roasting. When your timer goes off, check if your chickpeas are golden brown before removing them from the oven—those crispy bites are irresistible! Let your cauliflower roast for an additional 5-10 minutes until lightly charred at the tips.

Step 4: Make Your Green Tahini Sauce

While everything roasts away beautifully, it’s time to whip up that amazing Green Tahini Sauce! In a blender or mini food processor, combine cilantro leaves, parsley leaves, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. With the motor running, slowly stream in about 1/3 cup of warm water until smooth. This sauce will be a delightful finishing touch!

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Now comes the fun part—assembly! Start by placing 1/2 cup of cooked rice into each of four bowls. Divide your roasted cauliflower florets and crispy chickpeas evenly over each bowl. If you’re using cucumbers or cherry tomatoes as toppings—now’s their time to shine! Finally, drizzle that luscious Green Tahini Sauce over everything.

And there you have it—your delicious Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Creating delicious Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls can be a breeze with just a few handy tips!

• Prep Ahead: Preparing your ingredients in advance saves time during busy weeknights. Chop the cauliflower and rinse the chickpeas the night before, making it easy to throw everything together when you’re ready to cook.
• Get Creative with Spices: Feel free to play around with spices! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or turmeric can elevate the flavor profile and give your bowls an extra kick.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley not only adds vibrant color but also enhances the dish’s flavor. They bring freshness that complements the roasted elements beautifully.
• Adjust for Texture: If you prefer a crunchier texture, let the chickpeas roast longer until they reach your desired crispness. A little extra time can make all the difference in creating that satisfying bite.
• Make Extra Sauce: The Green Tahini Sauce is so versatile! Make a bit more than needed and use it to drizzle over salads or grain bowls throughout the week for added flavor.

How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Serving your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is where you can truly let your creativity shine! Here are some ideas to make them visually stunning and even more delicious.

Garnishes

• Crumbled Feta Alternative: For those who enjoy a creamy touch, sprinkle some plant-based feta cheese on top. It adds an extra layer of flavor and creaminess without any animal-derived ingredients.
• Pomegranate Seeds: These jewels add a burst of sweetness and color, making your bowls not just tasty but visually appealing too.
• Chopped Nuts: Consider adding some toasted pine nuts or almonds for an unexpected crunch that complements the other textures in the bowl.

Side Dishes

• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A refreshing mix of quinoa, diced vegetables, and lemon dressing pairs perfectly with the warm spices in the shawarma bowls.
• Roasted Vegetables: Sweet potatoes or bell peppers roasted with olive oil and herbs make a delightful side that enhances the overall meal while providing additional nutrients.
• Hummus with Veggies: Serve alongside a platter of colorful raw veggies with hummus for dipping. This combo makes for a great appetizer or snack before diving into your main dish.
• Cucumber Yogurt Dip (Dairy-Free): A cool, creamy dip made from coconut yogurt mixed with cucumber, garlic, and dill can provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the shawarma bowls.

Enjoy crafting your perfect meal with these serving suggestions! Your friends and family will love how beautiful and flavorful these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls turn out!

Make Ahead and Storage

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal throughout the week. Here’s how to store them properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bowls to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best taste and freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, separate the roasted cauliflower and chickpeas from the rice and sauce.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to store portions.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months; just label them with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a microwave-safe dish until warm, about 2-3 minutes.
• For a crispy texture, reheat roasted ingredients in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common inquiries about Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls:

Can I customize my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or grains. Quinoa, farro, or even a mix of greens can enhance your bowls.

How do I make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free as long as you choose a gluten-free grain option like quinoa or brown rice.

What can I use instead of tahini in the Green Tahini Sauce?

If you don’t have tahini, try using sunflower seed butter or almond butter for a nutty flavor. Just adjust the consistency with water as needed.

How long does it take to make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

The total time is about 50 minutes, which includes preparation and cooking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls! They not only burst with flavor but also offer a nutritious meal option that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, these bowls are sure to satisfy. Wishing you happy cooking and delightful eating—please share your experience with me!