Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delightful and nutritious meal option that combines roasted cauliflower, crispy chickpeas, and a vibrant Green Tahini Sauce. These bowls are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s meal prep for the week or a quick dinner on a busy night. The unique flavors and textures come together to create an exciting dish that is both vegan and gluten-free.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Spices: The combination of curry powder, paprika, and cumin adds depth and warmth to the roasted vegetables.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with plant-based protein from chickpeas and healthy fats from tahini, these bowls are both filling and nourishing.
• Easy to Make: With simple instructions and minimal prep time, this recipe is great for any cook, regardless of skill level.
• Versatile Meal: Customize your bowls with various toppings like cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them ideal for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Essential for roasting the cauliflower and chickpeas evenly, ensuring crispy textures.
• Blender or mini food processor: Allows you to create a smooth Green Tahini Sauce effortlessly.
• Mixing bowls: Helps in combining ingredients easily while keeping your workspace organized.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurements of spices and liquids for balanced flavor.

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 (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

How to Make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F to prepare for roasting the vegetables.

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

Spread the cauliflower florets on one baking sheet and chickpeas on another (or use one large sheet if space allows). Toss cauliflower with 2 Tbsp. olive oil, then sprinkle half of the spice mixture over it.

For chickpeas:
– Toss with remaining 1 Tbsp. oil.
– Sprinkle 1 Tbsp. of spice mixture over them.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Place both baking sheets in the oven:
– After 15 minutes, shake the pan of chickpeas.
– Give cauliflower a good toss.

When timer goes off at 30 minutes:
– Remove chickpeas from oven.
– Let cauliflower roast an additional 5–10 minutes until lightly charred at tips.

Step 4: Make the Green Tahini Sauce

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

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

In four serving bowls:
– Place 1/2 cup cooked rice as a base.
– Top evenly with roasted cauliflower and chickpeas.
– Add cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes if desired.
– Drizzle generous amounts of Green Tahini Sauce over everything for extra flavor!

How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re preparing a meal for yourself or hosting friends, these bowls can be presented in various delightful ways.

Add Fresh Vegetables

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

Include Extra Proteins

• Grilled Chicken: For non-vegan options, grilled chicken can enhance protein content.
• Tofu: Crispy tofu cubes offer a plant-based protein boost for vegan diets.

Garnish with Herbs

• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro leaves enhances flavor and adds vibrancy.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brings freshness and brightens the dish visually.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Green Tahini Sauce: A generous drizzle of this creamy sauce ties all flavors together beautifully.
• Spicy Harissa: For those who enjoy heat, adding harissa can elevate the spice level.

How to Perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Creating the perfect Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure delicious results every time.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to maximize flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give cauliflower and chickpeas space on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust spices according to your taste; don’t hesitate to experiment with additional herbs or spices.
• Use Warm Water for Sauces: When blending sauces, warm water helps achieve a smoother consistency.
• Prep Ahead of Time: Many components can be made in advance, making it easy to assemble bowls when ready to serve.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover bowls separate in airtight containers for optimal freshness during storage.

Best Side Dishes for Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Pair your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls with complementary side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Hummus: Creamy chickpea dip that adds richness; serve with pita chips or fresh veggies.
2. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing salad made with bulgur, parsley, mint, tomato, and lemon juice that pairs well with Mediterranean flavors.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs offer a comforting side that everyone loves.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled until tender enhance both flavor and nutrition in your meal.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad tossed with veggies and lemon dressing adds variety and texture.
6. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): Flavorful rice-stuffed grape leaves provide an authentic Mediterranean touch.

By incorporating these serving suggestions, tips, and sides, you can enjoy a delightful experience with your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s taste and texture.

• Skipping the spice mix: Not seasoning your cauliflower and chickpeas properly can lead to bland bowls. Make sure to evenly coat them with the spice blend for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: If you place too many items on one baking sheet, they may steam instead of roast. Use separate sheets or ensure enough space for air circulation.
• Using cold water for the sauce: Adding cold water to your Green Tahini Sauce can result in a lumpy texture. Always use warm water to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Neglecting the toss: Failing to toss your chickpeas and cauliflower halfway through cooking can lead to uneven roasting. Remember to give them a good shake at the 15-minute mark for even crispiness.
• Ignoring optional toppings: Skipping fresh toppings like cucumber and cherry tomatoes will miss out on added crunch and freshness. Don’t overlook these simple enhancements!
• Not adjusting cooking times: Ovens vary, and undercooking or overcooking can change your bowl’s texture. Keep an eye on your ingredients as they roast.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Allow the bowls to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Freeze components separately (cauliflower, chickpeas, rice) for best results.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F; spread ingredients on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish; cover and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed; stir occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls.

Can I make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls ahead of time?

You can prepare all components in advance. Store them separately and assemble when ready to serve for optimal freshness.

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

If you don’t have tahini, try using almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.

Are Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These bowls store well and are perfect for meal prep lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Can I add protein to my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

Yes! Feel free to add grilled chicken, turkey, or beef for additional protein if desired while keeping with the overall flavor theme.

How do I customize my Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls?

You can customize these bowls with various toppings like avocado, pickled vegetables, or even a dollop of hummus for added richness!

Final Thoughts

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite grains or vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch option or a quick dinner idea, these bowls will satisfy your cravings while offering plenty of room for creativity!