Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up, then you’ll love these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home. The combination of roasted cauliflower, crispy chickpeas, and creamy Green Tahini Sauce creates a delightful explosion of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, these bowls are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions when you want something healthy without sacrificing flavor.

These bowls shine at family gatherings too. They cater to various tastes and preferences while being vegan and gluten-free. Trust me—everyone will be coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time.
• Flavor-packed: The spices in the chickpeas and cauliflower bring warmth and depth, making every bite delightful.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or grains to make it your own!
• Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; they reheat beautifully.
• Healthy goodness: Packed with nutrients, this dish will keep you feeling great.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! Let’s gather what we need for these tasty Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls.

For the Roasted Vegetables 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
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves

For the Green Tahini Sauce

• 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

One of the best things about these bowls is how flexible they are! You can easily tweak them to fit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini before roasting for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you like some heat!
• Change the grain: Swap the basmati rice for quinoa or farro for a different texture.
• Include nuts: Top with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for added crunch.

How to Make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven ensures that our cauliflower gets nicely roasted and crispy!

Step 2: Prepare the Spices

In a bowl, combine the curry powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. This spice mix is what gives our roasted vegetables their warm flavor.

Step 3: Roast the Cauliflower and Chickpeas

Spread the chopped cauliflower on one baking sheet and the chickpeas on another. Drizzle with olive oil—2 tablespoons on the cauliflower and 1 tablespoon on the chickpeas. Sprinkle each with their respective portions of the spice mixture. Toss everything together well so every piece is coated in those lovely spices. Place both sheets in the oven; set your timer for 30 minutes. After 15 minutes, give everything a good shake or toss to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Make Your Green Tahini Sauce

While everything roasts away beautifully, let’s whip up that creamy Green Tahini Sauce! In a blender or mini food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, and 1/3 cup of warm water. Blend until smooth—you want it creamy but pourable!

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Once your cauliflower is tender and slightly charred (about 20-25 minutes total), it’s time to put everything together! In four bowls, place half a cup of cooked rice as your base. Divide the roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas among them. If you’re using cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes as toppings, add those now too! Finally, drizzle that delicious Green Tahini Sauce over each bowl.

And there you have it—delicious Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

These bowls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them a joy to prepare. Here are some pro tips to ensure you create the perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls every time!

• Chop Evenly: Cutting your cauliflower into uniform florets ensures that they roast evenly, giving you that perfect crispy texture all around.
• Don’t Rush the Roasting: Allowing your cauliflower and chickpeas to roast until they’re slightly charred enhances their flavors and adds a delightful crunch, elevating your bowl from good to amazing.
• Customize Your Grains: Feel free to swap white basmati rice for quinoa, farro, or any grain of your choice. This not only changes the flavor profile but also adds different textures and nutrients to your meal.
• Make Extra Green Tahini Sauce: This creamy sauce is so delicious that you’ll want extra for drizzling over salads or as a dip for veggies. Make a double batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week!
• Mix Up the Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add other roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. They can complement the dish beautifully while adding color and nutrition.

How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Presentation matters when it comes to enjoying your meal! These Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are visually stunning and can be customized based on your preferences. Here are some serving ideas to make them even more enticing.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with the tahini sauce.
• Fresh Herbs: A handful of fresh mint or dill can brighten up the dish, providing an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, bulgur wheat, and a light lemon dressing complements the spices in the shawarma bowls perfectly while offering a burst of freshness.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances out the savory elements of the bowls. Simply toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil and spices before roasting until tender.
• Hummus Platter: Serve with a side of classic hummus and pita bread for dipping. The creaminess of hummus pairs wonderfully with the roasted flavors of your main dish.
• Cucumber Yogurt Salad: A cool cucumber salad mixed with dairy-free yogurt creates a refreshing contrast to the warm ingredients in your bowls, making every bite satisfying and balanced.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy incredible Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls that are as delightful as they are nourishing!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are fantastic for meal prep! You can easily prepare the components ahead of time, making it a breeze to assemble a nutritious lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roasted cauliflower and chickpeas to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep the Green Tahini Sauce in a separate container; it will stay fresh for about one week.

Freezing

• Roasted cauliflower and chickpeas can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer bag for easy portioning.
• The Green Tahini Sauce can also be frozen; consider pouring it into ice cube trays for convenient single servings.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat roasted cauliflower and chickpeas in the oven at 375°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• The Green Tahini Sauce can be gently warmed on the stove or in the microwave; do not overheat as it may change texture.

FAQs

If you have any questions while preparing your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, I’ve got you covered!

Can I use other vegetables instead of cauliflower in my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just adjust roasting times according to their size and density.

How do I make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any grains or sauces you use are certified gluten-free to keep your meal safe.

What can I serve with my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

These bowls are delicious on their own, but you could also pair them with pita bread, a side salad, or some hummus for extra flavor!

How long will my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls last in the fridge?

When stored properly, your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy them at your convenience!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these vibrant Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls! They’re not only packed with flavor but also perfect for nourishing your body during busy weeks. Enjoy every bite as you dive into this delightful recipe, and feel free to share your experiences or variations. Happy cooking!