Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delightful and nutritious option for any meal. These bowls bring together roasted cauliflower, crispy chickpeas, and a creamy Green Tahini Sauce that will satisfy your cravings. Perfect for meal prep, they make a great lunch or an easy weeknight dinner. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet night in, these bowls are sure to impress with their vibrant flavors and textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with plant-based ingredients, these bowls are rich in vitamins and minerals.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in under an hour.
• Versatile Serving Options: Customize your bowls with various toppings like cucumbers or cherry tomatoes.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls store well, making them perfect for meal prep during the week.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and tahini sauce brings an exciting taste to your table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience easier, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need to prepare these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Blender or food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: These provide ample space for roasting the cauliflower and chickpeas evenly.
• Blender or food processor: A must-have for creating the smooth and creamy Green Tahini Sauce effortlessly.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining spices and tossing ingredients before roasting.

Ingredients

For the 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 (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

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 the cauliflower and chickpeas until crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Curry powder
2. Paprika
3. Ground cumin
4. Kosher salt
5. Black pepper

Spread the chopped cauliflower on one baking sheet and the chickpeas on another (or use one large sheet if possible). Toss the cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring it is well coated.

Step 3: Season the Chickpeas

Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the chickpeas. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the spice mixture over them, tossing to ensure even coverage.

Step 4: Roast in Oven

Place both baking sheets in the preheated oven:
1. Set a timer for 30 minutes.
2. After 15 minutes, shake the pan of chickpeas gently and toss the cauliflower for even cooking.
3. The chickpeas will be ready after 30 minutes; let the cauliflower roast for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until lightly charred at the tips.

Step 5: Make Green Tahini Sauce

While everything roasts, prepare your Green Tahini Sauce:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, parsley, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
2. With the motor running, slowly add in about 1/3 cup of warm water until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 6: Assemble Your Bowls

To serve:
1. Place half a cup of cooked rice into four bowls.
2. Evenly distribute roasted cauliflower and chickpeas over each bowl.
3. Add optional toppings like cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes if desired.
4. Drizzle generously with Green Tahini Sauce.

Enjoy your delicious Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls!

How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Fresh Vegetables

• Cucumber Slices: Thinly slice English or Persian cucumbers for a refreshing crunch.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halve cherry tomatoes to add a burst of sweetness and color.

Greens

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for an aromatic touch.
• Chopped Parsley: Add fresh parsley for a vibrant finish and extra flavor.

Extra Protein

• Roasted Chickpeas: For an additional crunch, scatter more roasted chickpeas over the bowl.
• Grilled Chicken or Turkey: Slice grilled chicken or turkey as a hearty protein option if desired.

Sauces

• Green Tahini Sauce: Drizzle generously for rich, nutty flavors.
• Spicy Harissa: For those who enjoy heat, add harissa sauce for a kick.

How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Creating the perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for optimal results.

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor significantly. Check the freshness of your curry powder, paprika, and cumin before use.
• Ensure Even Roasting: Spread cauliflower and chickpeas out in a single layer on baking sheets to ensure they roast evenly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your heat preference. Add more paprika for smokiness or more cumin for earthiness.
• Experiment with Grains: While white basmati rice is delicious, try quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Pairing side dishes with your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Hummus: A classic Middle Eastern dip made from blended chickpeas; serve with pita bread or veggie sticks.
2. Tabbouleh Salad: A fresh salad made with parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, and lemon juice that complements the bowl’s flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add more nutrients and color.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light salad with quinoa, vegetables, and herbs provides extra protein and fiber.
5. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles enhance flavors; try pickled red onions or radishes for a zingy addition.
6. Falafel Bites: Crispy falafel balls made from chickpeas offer additional protein and satisfy your cravings for something crispy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and ensure your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls turn out perfectly.

• Using stale spices: Fresh spices make a difference! Check the expiration dates and replace any that are old to enhance flavor.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Crowded veggies won’t roast properly. Use separate sheets or leave space between items to achieve nice browning.
• Skipping the tossing step: Don’t forget to toss your cauliflower and chickpeas halfway through roasting. This helps them cook evenly for better texture.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Always taste before serving. Adjust spices based on personal preference for a more customized flavor.
• Forgetting about optional toppings: Toppings add freshness and texture. Don’t ignore the cucumbers and cherry tomatoes; they elevate your bowls significantly!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Allow to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Portion out servings for easy meal prep.

Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread bowls on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls.

Can I use other vegetables in my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for added variety.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the spice mixture for a kick. Adjust based on your heat preference.

What can I substitute for tahini in the Green Tahini Sauce?

You can use sunflower seed butter or almond butter as alternatives if you don’t have tahini on hand.

Are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free grains like rice or quinoa, these bowls are entirely gluten-free!

Final Thoughts

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making them perfect for meal prep or an easy weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or grains for an even more personalized dish. Enjoy experimenting with this versatile recipe!