Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

If you’re looking for a delicious, healthy meal that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! These Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are not just packed with flavor; they also bring a wonderful variety of textures to your table. Imagine crispy chickpeas mixed with tender roasted cauliflower, all drizzled with a creamy Green Tahini Sauce. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or hosting friends for dinner, these bowls are sure to impress!

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly versatile and easy to make. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it perfect for everyone at the table. You can whip this up in under an hour, and it works beautifully as leftovers for lunch the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices creates a delightful taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week—perfect for busy days!
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite fresh veggies or herbs to personalize each bowl.
• Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein and fiber, these bowls will keep you fueled and satisfied.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, wholesome, and easy to find. Each one contributes to the rich flavors and satisfying textures of the 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 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use lentils instead of chickpeas for an added twist while keeping it plant-based.
• Change up the grains: Try quinoa or farro for a different texture and flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some bell peppers or zucchini alongside the cauliflower for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix if you’re looking for some heat!

How to Make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving those perfectly roasted vegetables that are crispy on the outside yet tender inside.

Step 2: Season the Cauliflower and Chickpeas

In a bowl, combine curry powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Spread your chopped cauliflower on one baking sheet and your chickpeas on another (or use one big sheet if it fits!). Toss the cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and coat the chickpeas with the remaining tablespoon. Sprinkle about a tablespoon of your spice mix over the chickpeas, tossing them well to ensure they’re coated evenly. Use the remaining spice mix on the cauliflower.

Step 3: Roast Until Golden

Place both baking sheets in the oven at once—set your timer for 30 minutes! After 15 minutes, shake up those chickpeas and give your cauliflower a good toss. The chickpeas will be done when they are crispy; let that cauliflower roast for another 5-10 minutes until it’s got lovely charred tips.

Step 4: Prepare Your Green Tahini Sauce

While everything is roasting away in the oven, make your Green Tahini Sauce! In a blender or mini food processor, add cilantro leaves, parsley leaves, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. With everything whirring away smoothly, stream in about ⅓ cup warm water until you’ve got that creamy consistency just right.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

It’s time to put this all together! Start by placing ½ cup of cooked rice in each bowl (you should have enough rice for four servings). Divide your roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas among them. If you’re using them, add thinly sliced cucumbers or halved cherry tomatoes on top before drizzling that luscious Green Tahini Sauce over everything.

Enjoy these delightful Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls as a fantastic main course any day of the week!

Pro Tips for Making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Creating the perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is all about the details, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh spices: Fresh spices can make a world of difference in flavor. If your spices have been sitting in the pantry for a while, consider replacing them to ensure maximum taste.

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheets: Giving your cauliflower and chickpeas room to breathe while roasting helps achieve that crispy texture we all love. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Adding ingredients like pickled red onions or avocado can give your bowls an extra burst of flavor and texture.

• Make it meal prep-friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Roast extra cauliflower and chickpeas so you can quickly assemble lunches throughout the week. Just store them separately from the rice and sauce until ready to eat.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some cayenne pepper to the spice mix or serving with hot sauce on the side.

How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Serving your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls beautifully not only enhances the dining experience but also makes for stunning photos if you’re sharing online! Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh crunch and added color.
• Pomegranate seeds: These little jewels add a pop of sweetness and a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the roasted elements.

Side Dishes

• Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A refreshing mix of chickpeas, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley dressed in lemon vinaigrette. It’s light and complements the warm spices perfectly.
• Tabbouleh: This herby salad made with bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice adds a zesty freshness that pairs beautifully with the flavors of shawarma.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances out the savory notes of the bowls while providing extra fiber and nutrients.
• Hummus with Veggies: A creamy hummus served alongside crunchy vegetables like carrots or bell peppers offers a delightful dip option that enhances your meal’s overall experience.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas at your fingertips, you’re ready to enjoy your delightful Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are fantastic for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week. You can prepare the components in advance and store them separately for quick assembly later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing.
• Place roasted cauliflower and chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Store cooked rice separately in another container for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the roasted cauliflower and chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Cooked rice can also be frozen in portions in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Use within 2-3 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen ingredients overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat the cauliflower and chickpeas on a baking sheet at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Warm cooked rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delicious bowls, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might help.

Can I customize my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini. You can also swap out the tahini sauce for hummus or a yogurt alternative if desired.

How do I make these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free! Just ensure that your grain alternative (if not using basmati rice) is certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare the Green Tahini Sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The Green Tahini Sauce can be made up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving!

What are some great toppings for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

In addition to cucumber and cherry tomatoes, consider adding avocado slices, pickled red onions, or even fresh pomegranate seeds for extra flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to make these delightful Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls! They’re not only delicious but also versatile and perfect for any meal of the day. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and flavors that reflect your personal taste. Happy cooking!