Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up, then these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are just what you need! This recipe is one of my favorites because it brings together vibrant flavors and textures in such a simple way. The roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas are full of spice, while the creamy Green Tahini Sauce ties everything together beautifully. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these bowls are sure to impress and satisfy everyone around the table.

Plus, they’re vegan and gluten-free, making them a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions. Trust me, your friends and family will love this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The spices create a wonderful aroma and taste that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare these bowls in advance for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Colorful Presentation: The bright colors from the veggies make this dish visually appealing and inviting.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. Each component plays an important role in creating those mouthwatering Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls.

For the Roasted 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

Variations

One of the best things about these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is their flexibility! You can easily adapt them based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use roasted sweet potatoes or grilled eggplant instead of chickpeas for an equally tasty option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini before roasting to add even more flavor and nutrition.
• Try different grains: Substitute quinoa, farro, or brown rice for the basmati rice to mix things up.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice mix for an extra kick!

How to Make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is essential for getting that lovely char on the cauliflower and crispiness on the chickpeas.

Step 2: Season the Veggies

In a bowl, combine curry powder, paprika, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. Spread your cauliflower florets and chickpeas out on separate baking sheets. Toss the cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and coat the chickpeas with the remaining tablespoon of oil. Sprinkle one tablespoon of your spice blend over the chickpeas and toss them well to coat evenly while sprinkling the rest over the cauliflower too.

Step 3: Roast Them Up

Place both baking sheets in your preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 15 minutes, shake the pan with chickpeas and give those cauliflower florets a good toss for even cooking. When time’s up for chickpeas, they should be crispy; let cauliflower roast for another 5-10 minutes until nicely browned at the tips.

Step 4: Make Your Green Tahini Sauce

While everything roasts away beautifully in the oven, gather all ingredients for your Green Tahini Sauce in a blender or mini food processor. Blend until smooth while gradually streaming in about 1/3 cup warm water—this helps achieve that perfect creamy texture!

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

For serving, start by placing half a cup of cooked rice into four bowls. Evenly distribute roasted cauliflower and chickpeas over each bowl along with any optional cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes you’d like to add. Finally, drizzle that luscious Green Tahini Sauce over everything—a true labor of love!

Now sit back and enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls!

Pro Tips for Making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

These bowls are not only delicious but also customizable, making them perfect for any occasion! Here are some tips to ensure your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls turn out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices can elevate the flavor profile of your dish. Ground spices lose potency over time, so make sure to use freshly opened containers for maximum flavor.

• Pat Chickpeas Dry: Ensuring your chickpeas are dry before roasting helps them become extra crispy. Moisture will steam them rather than roast them, resulting in a less satisfying texture.

• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to mix up your toppings! Adding ingredients like pickled onions or avocado can enhance both flavor and texture while allowing you to personalize each bowl.

• Make Extra Sauce: The Green Tahini Sauce is versatile and can be drizzled on salads or used as a dip. Consider making extra so you can enjoy it beyond just this meal.

• Meal Prep for Convenience: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them a great option for meal prep. Just keep the sauce separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness.

How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Serving your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is all about presentation and pairing them with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal visually appealing and even more enjoyable!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro and parsley over the bowls right before serving for an added pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Sliced Avocado: Add creamy avocado slices for richness that balances the spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing salad made with parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, and a lemon dressing adds a bright contrast to the warm flavors of the shawarma bowls.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables complements the bowl nicely, adding more nutrients and vibrant colors.
• Pita Bread: Serve warm pita bread on the side for a fun way to scoop up the delicious fillings from your bowl.
• Hummus: A side of hummus can enhance the Mediterranean theme while providing a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the crunchy elements of your dish.

Enjoy crafting these delightful Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls! They’re sure to impress at any gathering or simply make your weeknight dinners something special. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are perfect for meal prep, making them a great option for busy weekdays. You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble your bowls when you’re ready to eat.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover roasted cauliflower and chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep the Green Tahini Sauce separate in a small jar or container in the fridge; it will stay fresh for about a week.
• If you have leftover rice, store it in a separate container.

Freezing

• You can freeze the roasted cauliflower and chickpeas. Just place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will keep for up to 3 months.
• Note that the texture may change slightly after thawing, but they’ll still be delicious!
• The Green Tahini Sauce can also be frozen, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating

• For reheating the cauliflower and chickpeas, spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• The rice can be reheated in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist.
• Serve everything warm with a fresh drizzle of Green Tahini Sauce.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls that might help you out!

Can I use other vegetables in my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out cauliflower for other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I store leftovers from my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep components like sauce and grains separate for optimal freshness.

Can I make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is already gluten-free as long as you choose gluten-free grains such as quinoa or brown rice instead of traditional basmati rice.

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

If you don’t have tahini on hand, you can use sunflower seed butter or almond butter as an alternative. Both will give you a nutty flavor that works well!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls inspires you to create something delicious and satisfying! With its vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy making these bowls, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations with me. Happy cooking!