Description
These bowls are inspired by Middle Eastern shawarma flavors, featuring roasted cauliflower coated in warm spices, served over fluffy grains with crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, and a creamy garlic tahini dressing. Perfect for a nourishing lunch or dinner!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Shawarma Cauliflower:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For the Bowl Base:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or couscous (or rice for a gluten-free option)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup hummus
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds (optional)
For the Garlic Tahini Dressing:
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
- 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Roast the Cauliflower:
- In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil and spices until well coated.
- Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
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Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
- Add water a little at a time until the dressing reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
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Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide quinoa or couscous between serving bowls.
- Top with roasted cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Add a dollop of hummus and sprinkle with feta, parsley, and nuts if using.
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Drizzle & Serve:
- Drizzle the garlic tahini dressing over the bowls and serve immediately.
Notes
- Protein Boost: Add roasted chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu for extra protein.
- Spice it up: Serve with a dollop of harissa or spicy chili sauce.
- Make it meal-prep friendly: Store the cauliflower and toppings separately and assemble fresh before eating.