Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines roasted cauliflower with crispy chickpeas and a creamy Green Tahini Sauce. These bowls are not only vegan and gluten-free but also versatile enough for meal prep lunches or a quick weeknight dinner. With their rich spices and fresh ingredients, they bring a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthful Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and legumes, these bowls provide essential nutrients while being low in calories.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and simple steps, you can whip up these delicious bowls in under an hour.
• Flavorful Spices: The aromatic blend of spices like curry powder, paprika, and cumin adds depth to each bite.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or substitute grains to suit your dietary preferences.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them perfect for lunch throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls seamlessly, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Mixing bowls
• Blender or food processor
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: They allow even roasting of cauliflower and chickpeas for optimal flavor and texture.
• Blender or food processor: This tool is vital for creating a smooth Green Tahini Sauce that enhances the dish’s creaminess.

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.

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

How to Make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve crispy textures on the cauliflower and chickpeas.

Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Curry powder
2. Paprika
3. Ground cumin
4. Kosher salt
5. Black pepper

Step 3: Roast the Cauliflower and Chickpeas

Spread cauliflower florets on one baking sheet and chickpeas on another.
– Drizzle 2 Tbsp of olive oil over the cauliflower.
– Toss chickpeas with the remaining 1 Tbsp of olive oil.
– Sprinkle 1 Tbsp of spice mixture over chickpeas and toss to coat.
– Add remaining spice mixture over cauliflower florets and toss as well.
Place both baking sheets in the oven for 30 minutes:
– After 15 minutes, shake the pan of chickpeas and toss cauliflower again.
– Remove chickpeas when timer goes off; let cauliflower roast an additional 5–10 minutes until lightly charred.

Step 4: Make the Green Tahini Sauce

In a blender or mini food processor:
– Combine cilantro, parsley, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
– With motor running, gradually stream in 1/3 cup warm water until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

In four bowls:
– Place 1/2 cup cooked rice in each bowl.
– Divide roasted cauliflower and chickpeas evenly among them.
– Top with cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes if desired.
– Drizzle generously with Green Tahini Sauce before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls as a wholesome meal that’s sure to please everyone!

How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different toppings and sides to suit your taste. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your bowl experience.

Fresh Veggies

• Cucumber Slices: Thinly sliced English or Persian cucumbers add a refreshing crunch.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes provide a sweet burst of flavor.

Herb Garnish

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro for an aromatic touch.
• Chopped Parsley: Add parsley for a vibrant green color and a fresh taste.

Additional Proteins

• Grilled Chicken: For meat lovers, grilled chicken can be added for extra protein.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy, tangy element that pairs well with the flavors.

Nuts and Seeds

• Toasted Almonds: A sprinkle of toasted almonds adds a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds can enhance the tahini sauce’s flavor profile.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Creating the perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is all about balance and flavor. Here are some tips to ensure your bowls are always a hit.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the dish’s overall flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the spices according to your heat preference. More paprika for heat or less cumin for milder flavors works well.
• Don’t Skip the Sauce: The Green Tahini Sauce is essential. It ties all the ingredients together with its creamy texture.
• Cook in Batches: If making larger quantities, roast cauliflower and chickpeas in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Pairing side dishes with your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls can round out your meal perfectly. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Tabbouleh Salad: A fresh salad made with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat. It’s light and complements the bowls well.
2. Hummus Platter: Creamy hummus served with pita bread or veggie sticks makes for an excellent appetizer alongside the bowls.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Quinoa Tabbouleh: A gluten-free twist on traditional tabbouleh using quinoa instead of bulgur.
5. Greek Yogurt Dip: A tangy yogurt dip serves as a cool contrast to the spiced shawarma bowls.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Quick-pickled radishes or carrots add a zesty crunch that brightens up each bite of your bowl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, avoiding common pitfalls can make a big difference in flavor and presentation.

• Skipping the spice mix: Not seasoning the cauliflower and chickpeas properly can lead to bland bowls. Ensure you coat both ingredients evenly with the spice mixture for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many items on one baking sheet can cause steaming instead of roasting. Spread them out to allow for even cooking and crispiness.
• Neglecting the tahini sauce: A bland or poorly blended sauce can detract from your dish. Blend the Green Tahini Sauce until smooth, adding water gradually for the right consistency.
• Ignoring fresh toppings: Forgetting to add fresh vegetables like cucumber or cherry tomatoes can reduce texture and freshness. These toppings provide crunch and enhance visual appeal.
• Not preheating the oven: Cooking in a cold oven can lead to uneven roasting. Always preheat your oven to 425°F before starting to cook your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bowls on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place individual servings in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot (about 5-7 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls that might help you in your cooking journey.

How do I customize my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

You can add different grains like quinoa or farro instead of rice. Feel free to include other roasted vegetables or legumes for added nutrition.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses rice and chickpeas. Just ensure any additional ingredients are also gluten-free.

What other sauces can I use besides Green Tahini Sauce?

You may try using a yogurt-based sauce, hummus, or even a spicy harissa sauce for a different flavor profile.

How do I prepare Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls ahead of time?

You can roast the cauliflower and chickpeas in advance and store them separately. Prepare the sauce fresh when ready to serve for optimal taste.

Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Yes! If using frozen cauliflower, thaw it completely before roasting. You may need to adjust roasting time as frozen veggies often release more moisture.

Final Thoughts

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch prep or dinner. Feel free to customize them with your favorite grains, vegetables, or sauces to suit your tastes!