Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delightful combination of roasted cauliflower, crispy chickpeas, and a creamy Green Tahini Sauce. This vegan and gluten-free dish is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for both lunches and easy weeknight dinners. The vibrant flavors and textures make these bowls a standout option for various occasions.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Spices
• Main Ingredients
• Grains
• Optional Toppings
• Fresh Herbs
• Green Tahini Sauce Ingredients
• How to Make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Spice It Up
• Step 3: Coat Your Veggies
• Step 4: Roast to Perfection
• Step 5: Prepare Green Tahini Sauce
• Step 6: Assemble Your Bowls
• How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Fresh Vegetables
• Greens
• Nuts and Seeds
• Additional Sauces
• How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I customize my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?
• How do I make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?
• What can I serve with Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?
• Are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: The blend of spices infuses the cauliflower and chickpeas with bold and aromatic flavors.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, these bowls come together quickly.
• Versatile: Customize your bowls with your favorite grains, veggies, or toppings for endless variations.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients, this recipe is not only filling but also supports a balanced diet.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch at the beginning of the week for quick lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, you will need some essential tools that will simplify your cooking process and enhance the overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Ideal for roasting the cauliflower and chickpeas evenly while achieving that perfect crispiness.
• Blender or food processor: Makes preparing the Green Tahini Sauce quick and effortless, resulting in a smooth texture.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining spices and tossing ingredients without creating a mess.

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.

Spices

• 1 Tbsp. curry powder
• 2 tsp. paprika
• 1 tsp. ground cumin
• 1 tsp. kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

Main Ingredients

• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large head cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, rinsed, drained, and patted dry

Grains

• 2 cups cooked white basmati rice (sub grain of choice)

Optional Toppings

• Thinly sliced English or Persian cucumber
• Halved cherry tomatoes

Fresh Herbs

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves

Green Tahini Sauce Ingredients

• 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 is essential for achieving crispy vegetables.

Step 2: Spice It Up

Combine the curry powder, paprika, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Spread the chopped cauliflower florets on one baking sheet and the chickpeas on another.

Step 3: Coat Your Veggies

Toss the cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of olive oil until well-coated. On the chickpea baking sheet, drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over them. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the spice mixture over the chickpeas; toss to coat. Use the remaining spice mixture on the cauliflower.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Place both baking sheets in your preheated oven. Set a timer for 30 minutes; halfway through at 15 minutes, shake the pan of chickpeas gently and give your cauliflower a good toss. When done, remove chickpeas from the oven but let the cauliflower roast for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until lightly charred.

Step 5: Prepare Green Tahini Sauce

While your veggies roast, prepare the Green Tahini Sauce by placing all sauce ingredients into a blender or mini food processor. Gradually stream in about 1/3 cup warm water while blending until smooth.

Step 6: Assemble Your Bowls

In each of four bowls, place half a cup of cooked rice at the bottom. Evenly divide roasted cauliflower and chickpeas over each bowl. Add optional toppings like cucumber slices or halved cherry tomatoes if desired. Finally, drizzle with Green Tahini Sauce before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls!

How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are versatile and fun to serve. You can customize them with various toppings and sides to suit your taste. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

Fresh Vegetables

• Cucumber Slices: Thinly sliced English or Persian cucumbers add a refreshing crunch.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness and color.

Greens

• Fresh Herbs: Top with chopped cilantro or parsley for added flavor and freshness.
• Spinach or Arugula: Add a handful of spinach or arugula for extra nutrients and texture.

Nuts and Seeds

• Toasted Pine Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts adds a nutty flavor and delightful crunch.
• Sesame Seeds: Garnish with sesame seeds for additional flavor and visual appeal.

Additional Sauces

• Extra Green Tahini Sauce: Drizzle more tahini sauce over the top for enhanced creaminess.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy spice, a few drops of hot sauce can elevate the dish.

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How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Creating the perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve delicious results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spices, herbs, and vegetables to enhance the flavors.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Spread cauliflower and chickpeas out evenly to ensure they roast properly without steaming.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your spice mixture before adding it to ensure it meets your palate preferences.
• Serve Immediately: These bowls are best served fresh; they lose their crispiness if left too long.

Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Pairing side dishes with your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Hummus: A classic Mediterranean dip that complements the spices in the bowls.
2. Pita Bread: Soft pita bread is perfect for scooping up the bowls’ ingredients.
3. Tabbouleh Salad: This refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat adds freshness.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies make a hearty side that pairs beautifully with the bowls.
5. Fattoush Salad: A vibrant salad featuring crispy pita chips, mixed greens, and tangy dressing.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled vegetables provide a nice contrast to the warm, spiced bowls.
7. Grilled Eggplant: Smoky grilled eggplant slices enhance the Mediterranean flavors of the dish.
8. Yogurt Sauce: A tangy yogurt-based sauce can provide creaminess that balances out the spices nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, it’s easy to overlook a few essential steps. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven for even cooking. Skipping this step can lead to unevenly roasted vegetables.

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: If you place too many ingredients on one tray, they will steam instead of roast. Use separate trays or space out your items properly.

• Ignoring seasoning: Properly season both the cauliflower and chickpeas. Insufficient seasoning can make the dish bland. Ensure every component is well coated with spices.

• Neglecting the tahini sauce: The Green Tahini Sauce is key to enhancing flavors. Don’t skip it; blend it well for a smooth texture that binds all ingredients together.

• Serving without toppings: Optional toppings like cucumber and cherry tomatoes add freshness and crunch. Don’t forget these for a delightful contrast in texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers.
• Best used within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls:

Can I customize my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Absolutely! You can swap out the grain, use different vegetables, or add proteins like tofu or tempeh based on your preference.

How do I make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free grains and check your tahini brand for any additives.

What can I serve with Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Serve them alongside a fresh salad, pita bread, or even hummus for a complete Mediterranean meal experience.

Are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These bowls store well and are perfect for meal prep. Just keep sauce separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what you love or have on hand. Enjoy this nourishing bowl that bursts with flavor!