Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

If you’re looking for a dish that is both nourishing and packed with flavor, let me introduce you to my favorite Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls. These bowls are a delightful combination of roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas, all drizzled with a creamy Green Tahini Sauce. They are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

What makes these bowls even more special is how versatile they are. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: The blend of spices and textures creates a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will love.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Cook once and enjoy multiple meals throughout the week—simply reheat and add fresh toppings!
• Nutritious & Wholesome: Packed with veggies and protein from chickpeas, these bowls offer a healthy balance without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite grains or toppings to make this dish your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Below are everything you’ll need to whip up your very own Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls:

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 the Bowls

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some easy variations to suit your taste buds:

• Swap the grain: Use quinoa or farro instead of rice for a different flavor and texture.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini alongside the cauliflower for added color and nutrition.
• Change up the sauce: Try adding a dollop of hummus or a drizzle of yogurt if you’re not strictly vegan—both pair beautifully!
• Boost the protein: Add some grilled chicken or tofu if you’re looking for extra protein in your bowl.

How to Make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven helps achieve that perfect roast on your cauliflower and chickpeas.

Step 2: Season Your Veggies

In a bowl, combine curry powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Spread the cauliflower florets on one baking sheet and the chickpeas on another. Drizzle with olive oil; toss well to coat everything evenly in those lovely spices! This step is crucial as it enhances the natural flavors of both ingredients.

Step 3: Roast Away!

Pop both baking sheets into the oven and set your timer for 30 minutes. Halfway through, give everything a good toss—the goal is crispy chickpeas and charred cauliflower edges that bring out their sweetness.

Step 4: Make That Sauce

While everything roasts away in the oven, let’s whip up our Green Tahini Sauce! Combine cilantro, parsley, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper in your blender or food processor. Slowly stream in warm water while blending until smooth—this will be your delicious drizzle!

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Once everything is roasted to perfection, it’s time to assemble! Start by placing ½ cup cooked rice into four bowls. Top each with roasted cauliflower and chickpeas as desired. Add optional cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes for freshness before drizzling generously with that amazing Green Tahini Sauce.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls! They’re sure to bring warmth and joy to your table—just like sharing them with good friends would!

Pro Tips for Making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Creating the perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor profile of your bowls. Fresh cilantro and parsley add a burst of brightness that complements the roasted cauliflower beautifully.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice blend according to your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or turmeric can introduce new dimensions of flavor that make each bowl uniquely yours.
• Make Extra Green Tahini Sauce: This versatile sauce is not just for this recipe! Make a double batch and use it as a salad dressing or dip for veggies throughout the week. It’s packed with nutrients and flavor!
• Prep Ahead: For an easy meal prep option, roast extra cauliflower and chickpeas, then store them in airtight containers. They’ll stay fresh for several days, making assembling meals during busy weeks a breeze.
• Add Crunch: If you’re looking for texture, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds on top just before serving. They not only provide crunch but also additional healthy fats and protein.

How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Presenting your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls in an appealing way can make mealtime even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas on how to serve this vibrant dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: A sprinkle of chopped green onions adds a mild onion flavor that complements the earthiness of the chickpeas and cauliflower.
• Pomegranate Seeds: These jewel-like seeds offer a sweet-tart burst that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of the bowl.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside allows everyone to add their preferred amount of zesty brightness right before digging in.

Side Dishes

• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A refreshing mix of quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives tossed in lemon vinaigrette provides a light yet flavorful complement to your bowls.
• Hummus with Veggies: Creamy hummus served with crunchy carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, or cucumber slices makes for an excellent appetizer before diving into your main course.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the spices in the shawarma bowls while adding extra fiber and nutrients.
• Tabbouleh: This classic Middle Eastern salad made with parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and lemon juice offers a bright and herby addition that balances out the hearty flavors in your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy delicious Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls that not only satisfy but also impress! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls recipe is an excellent option for meal prep! You can easily prepare the components in advance, making it a breeze to enjoy healthy meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy your bowls within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.
• Keep the Green Tahini Sauce separate to maintain freshness until serving.

Freezing

• Freeze roasted cauliflower and chickpeas in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Cooked rice can also be frozen; portion it into bags or containers before placing it in the freezer.
• When ready to eat, defrost everything overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Reheat roasted cauliflower and chickpeas on a baking sheet at 350°F until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Microwave cooked rice in a covered dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Drizzle fresh Green Tahini Sauce over your reheated bowls just before serving.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delicious Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, we’ve got you covered!

Can I customize the toppings for my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado, pickled onions, or bell peppers. The versatility of this recipe makes it easy to tailor it to your taste!

How can I make my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls spicy?

To add some heat, include diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes over your bowls. You can also add hot sauce to your Green Tahini Sauce for an extra kick!

Are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These bowls are perfect for meal prep. Prepare all components ahead of time, store them separately, and enjoy them throughout the week.

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

If you don’t have tahini on hand, you can substitute with sunflower seed butter or almond butter. Just keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor profile!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls! They not only offer a burst of flavors but also bring a wholesome balance to your meals. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a lunch packed with love, these bowls will surely brighten your day. I can’t wait for you to try them out—happy cooking!