Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delightful and nutritious meal option, perfect for any occasion. These bowls feature crispy chickpeas and roasted cauliflower, drizzled with a vibrant Green Tahini Sauce. Not only are they vegan and gluten-free, but they also offer a burst of flavor that makes them suitable for meal prep lunches or easy weeknight dinners. Enjoy the satisfying textures and colors in every bite!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Spices
• For Roasting
• Base Ingredients
• Optional Toppings
• For Green Tahini Sauce
• How to Make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower and Chickpeas
• Step 3: Roast in the Oven
• Step 4: Make Green Tahini Sauce
• Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
• How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Add Fresh Greens
• Top with Crunchy Veggies
• Incorporate Protein
• Drizzle with Dressing
• How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different grains in my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?
• How do I make my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls spicier?
• Are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?
• Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
• What is the best way to store leftovers?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The spices used bring an authentic shawarma flavor that elevates the dish.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or grains to personalize each bowl.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables, protein, and healthy fats, these bowls are wholesome and filling.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for batch cooking; prepare several servings for the week ahead.

Tools and Preparation

Preparation is straightforward with the right tools. Gather your essential kitchen equipment before you begin to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Blender or food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Essential for roasting the cauliflower and chickpeas evenly.
• Blender or food processor: Required for creating a smooth Green Tahini Sauce effortlessly.
• Measuring spoons: Help ensure accurate spice measurements for consistent flavor.

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 Roasting

• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large head cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, rinsed, drained, and patted dry

Base Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white basmati rice (sub grain of choice)

Optional Toppings

• Thinly sliced English or Persian cucumber
• Halved cherry tomatoes

For 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 key for achieving crispy roasted vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Cauliflower and Chickpeas

1. In a small bowl, combine curry powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread the chopped cauliflower on one baking sheet and the chickpeas on another (or use one large sheet if space allows).
3. Toss cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and chickpeas with the remaining tablespoon of oil.
4. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the spice mixture over the chickpeas and toss to coat evenly.
5. Sprinkle the remaining spice mixture over the cauliflower and toss until coated.

Step 3: Roast in the 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 to ensure even roasting and give the cauliflower a good toss.
3. Remove chickpeas when golden brown after 30 minutes; let cauliflower roast an additional 5-10 minutes until lightly charred at tips.

Step 4: Make Green Tahini Sauce

In a blender or mini food processor:
1. Combine all ingredients listed under Green Tahini Sauce.
2. With motor running, gradually stream in 1/3 cup warm water until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

For serving:
1. Place 1/2 cup cooked rice in four bowls.
2. Divide roasted cauliflower and chickpeas evenly among bowls.
3. Add optional cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes if desired.
4. Drizzle generously with Green Tahini Sauce before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls!

How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Serving Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is simple and versatile. You can customize each bowl to suit your taste, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.

Add Fresh Greens

• Spinach or Kale: Toss in fresh spinach or kale for added nutrients and a pop of color.
• Mixed Greens: Use a blend of arugula or baby greens to enhance the flavor profile.

Top with Crunchy Veggies

• Radishes: Thinly slice radishes for a crunchy texture and peppery flavor.
• Bell Peppers: Add diced bell peppers for sweetness and vibrant color.

Incorporate Protein

• Grilled Tofu: For an extra protein boost, add grilled tofu marinated in your favorite spices.
• Avocado: Slice avocado on top for creaminess that balances the dish well.

Drizzle with Dressing

• Extra Tahini Sauce: A little more Green Tahini Sauce can elevate the flavors even further.
• Hot Sauce: Add a splash of your favorite hot sauce for some heat.

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How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Perfecting your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure a delicious dish every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices will elevate the overall taste of your bowls.
• Roast Until Crispy: Ensure that both the cauliflower and chickpeas are roasted until crispy for the best texture.
• Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to tweak the spice levels based on your preference; more cumin or paprika can add depth.
• Experiment with Grains: While basmati rice is traditional, trying quinoa or farro can change things up nicely.

Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Pairing side dishes with your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Hummus: A classic Middle Eastern dip made from chickpeas that complements the flavors of shawarma bowls well.
2. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing parsley salad with bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and lemon that adds brightness.
3. Pita Bread: Soft pita bread is perfect for scooping up leftovers from your bowl.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection offer smoky flavors that pair beautifully.
5. Cucumber Yogurt Dip (Tzatziki): A cooling dip made from yogurt, cucumber, and garlic adds creaminess.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with savory flavors in the bowls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make common mistakes when preparing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls. These pitfalls can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the spice mix: Not using the spice mixture on both the cauliflower and chickpeas can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with the spices to enhance taste.
• Overcrowding the baking sheets: When roasting, overcrowding can steam rather than roast your ingredients. Spread them out for better caramelization and crunch.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality tahini or stale spices can ruin the dish. Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Neglecting the tahini sauce: Rushing through making the Green Tahini Sauce may yield a lumpy texture. Blend thoroughly for a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Forgetting optional toppings: Skipping toppings like cucumber and tomatoes can make your bowls less vibrant. Add these for freshness and extra flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Keep components separate until ready to eat for maximum freshness.

Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
• Make sure everything is cooled before freezing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until evenly warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or oil until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls.

Can I use different grains in my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Absolutely! You can substitute basmati rice with quinoa, farro, or any grain you prefer.

How do I make my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls spicier?

To add heat, try incorporating cayenne pepper into your spice mix or serving with hot sauce.

Are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses no wheat-based ingredients.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Green Tahini Sauce in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in sealed containers in the fridge. Keep components separate if possible for optimal freshness and texture.

Final Thoughts

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various toppings or grains based on your preferences. This meal is perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, making it a must-try recipe!