Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delightful and healthy meal option that is perfect for various occasions. These bowls feature crispy chickpeas and a flavorful Green Tahini Sauce, making them a standout choice for vegan and gluten-free diets. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or preparing meals for the week ahead, these bowls offer versatility and deliciousness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, these bowls are perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of spices on roasted cauliflower and chickpeas creates an explosion of taste.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, these bowls make a wholesome meal.
- Customizable: You can easily swap grains or add different vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them ideal for meal prepping.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Below are some key items you’ll need to create your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheets
- Blender or mini food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheets: These allow even roasting of the cauliflower and chickpeas, ensuring crispy textures.
- Blender or mini food processor: A must-have for creating a smooth Green Tahini Sauce quickly.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients efficiently while keeping everything organized.
Ingredients
For the Spiced 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 will help achieve that perfect char on the cauliflower.
Step 2: Prepare Spices and Vegetables
Combine curry powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Spread cauliflower florets and chickpeas on two separate rimmed baking sheets (or one large sheet if space allows).
– Toss cauliflower with 2 Tbsp. of olive oil.
– Toss chickpeas with the remaining 1 Tbsp. oil.
– Sprinkle 1 Tbsp. of spice mixture over chickpeas; toss to coat.
– Sprinkle remaining spice mixture over cauliflower; toss to coat.
Step 3: Roast Cauliflower and Chickpeas
Place both baking sheets in the oven:
– Set a timer for 30 minutes.
– After 15 minutes, shake the pan of chickpeas and give the cauliflower a good toss.
– Remove chickpeas from the oven when the timer goes off; let cauliflower roast for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until lightly charred.
Step 4: Make Green Tahini Sauce
While roasting, prepare your Green Tahini Sauce:
– Combine cilantro leaves, parsley leaves, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper in a blender or mini food processor.
– With motor running, gradually stream in 1/3 cup warm water until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
To serve:
– Place 1/2 cup cooked rice in four bowls.
– Divide roasted cauliflower and chickpeas evenly over each bowl.
– Add cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes if desired.
– Drizzle generously with Green Tahini Sauce before serving.
Enjoy your delightful Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls!
How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. Whether for a casual meal or a festive gathering, these bowls are sure to impress.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Cucumber Slices: Thinly sliced cucumbers add a refreshing crunch.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes offer a burst of sweetness and color.
Add Extra Protein
- Grilled Chicken: For those who want extra protein, grilled chicken complements the flavors well.
- Tofu: Marinated and grilled tofu provides a hearty vegan option.
Top with Nuts or Seeds
- Chickpeas: While already included, adding more crispy chickpeas can enhance the texture.
- Pumpkin Seeds: Toasted pumpkin seeds add crunch and a nutty flavor.
Drizzle with Additional Sauces
- Hot Sauce: A dash of your favorite hot sauce can spice things up.
- Greek Yogurt: For non-vegan options, a dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess.
Pair with Bread
- Pita Bread: Warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up the ingredients.
- Flatbread: Soft flatbread can be served on the side for extra enjoyment.
How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
To make your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.
- Spices: Use fresh spices to elevate flavor; they make a significant difference.
- Even Roasting: Ensure even spacing on baking sheets for perfectly roasted cauliflower and chickpeas.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences before serving.
- Warm Ingredients: Serve everything warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Serving sides alongside your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls can create a more satisfying meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Mediterranean Salad: A mix of greens, olives, and feta cheese brings freshness to your meal.
- Hummus Platter: Creamy hummus paired with veggies or pita makes for a delightful snack.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies complement the flavors beautifully.
- Quinoa Salad: Quinoa mixed with herbs and lemon adds protein and zest.
- Tabbouleh: This parsley-centric salad is light, refreshing, and pairs well with shawarma flavors.
- Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice cooked with spices enhances the Mediterranean theme of the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Ignoring the Spice Mix: Not fully coating the cauliflower and chickpeas with the spice mixture can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to toss them well for even seasoning.
- Overcooking the Cauliflower: Cooking the cauliflower too long can make it mushy. Aim for a light char on the tips for the best texture.
- Skipping the Tahini Sauce: The Green Tahini Sauce adds essential flavor and creaminess. Don’t skip it; it’s crucial for balancing the dish.
- Using Cold Water for Sauce: If you add cold water to the tahini sauce, it won’t blend smoothly. Use warm water for a creamy consistency.
- Not Prepping Ahead: Meal prepping is key for busy weeks. Spend some time in advance roasting and storing components separately.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- These bowls can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bowls in for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, stir for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls.
How do I customize my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?
You can add any veggies you like, such as bell peppers or zucchini. For protein, consider adding grilled tofu or tempeh.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, these bowls are naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free grains like quinoa or brown rice instead of basmati rice.
What other sauces can I use with Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?
Aside from Green Tahini Sauce, you could try hummus, tzatziki, or even a spicy harissa sauce for an extra kick.
Are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! They store well and can be easily reheated, making them ideal for meal prep lunches or quick dinners.
Final Thoughts
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are not only delicious but also versatile and nutritious. You can customize them with your favorite toppings and sauces to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a wonderful meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a vibrant, flavorful meal that brings together the delightful spices of shawarma with wholesome ingredients. This easy vegan recipe features perfectly roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas, all drizzled with a creamy Green Tahini Sauce. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, these bowls are not only nutritious but also customizable to fit your taste preferences. With fresh vegetables and warm grains, each bite offers a satisfying balance of textures and flavors, making it a perfect option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy yet delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower (chopped into florets)
- 1 can chickpeas (15 oz; rinsed and drained)
- 2 cups cooked white basmati rice (or grain of choice)
- Spices: curry powder, paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper
- 1/4 cup tahini
- Fresh herbs: cilantro and parsley
- Lemon juice and garlic
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, mix spices. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil and half the spice mixture. Toss chickpeas with remaining oil and spices.
- Spread cauliflower and chickpeas on baking sheets. Roast for 30 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- For the Green Tahini Sauce, blend cilantro, parsley, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, spices, and warm water until smooth.
- Assemble bowls with rice base topped with roasted cauliflower and chickpeas. Drizzle with sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 77g
- Fiber: 18g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
