Name: Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 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; 2 cups cooked white basmati rice (sub grain of choice); Optional toppings: thinly sliced English or Persian cucumber and halved cherry tomatoes; 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. kosher salt; 1/4 tsp. black pepper

Why Make This Recipe

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a delicious and healthy meal choice. They are packed with flavors from the spices and the roasted vegetables. This recipe is not only vegan but also gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences. The combination of roasted cauliflower and chickpeas with the creamy Green Tahini Sauce makes this dish satisfying and enjoyable. Plus, it is an easy recipe to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week.

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How to Make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Ingredients:

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
2 cups cooked white basmati rice (sub grain of choice)
Optional toppings: thinly sliced English or Persian cucumber and halved cherry tomatoes
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

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 425°F.
In a bowl, combine the curry powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Spread the cauliflower and chickpeas out on two separate rimmed baking sheets. If you have a big enough baking sheet, you can use just one.
Toss the cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the chickpeas with the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the spice mixture over the chickpeas and toss to coat. Then sprinkle the remaining spice mixture over the cauliflower and toss to coat.
Place both baking sheets in the oven and set the timer for 30 minutes.
After 15 minutes, shake the pan of chickpeas and toss the cauliflower.
When the timer goes off, remove the chickpeas from the oven. Let the cauliflower roast for another 5 to 10 minutes until the tips of the florets are lightly charred.
Meanwhile, prepare the Green Tahini Sauce by combining all the sauce ingredients in a blender. With the motor running, gradually add 1/3 cup warm water and blend until smooth.
Prepare the bowls by placing 1/2 cup cooked rice in each of four bowls. Divide the roasted cauliflower and chickpeas over each bowl. Add cucumber slices and/or cherry tomatoes if you are using them. Drizzle the Green Tahini Sauce over everything.

How to Serve Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

These bowls can be served warm or at room temperature. They make for a great lunch or dinner and can be garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and parsley for added flavor. Enjoy with additional toppings like hot sauce for an extra kick!

How to Store Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The roasted vegetables may lose some of their crunch but will still taste great. Reheat in the microwave or a toaster oven before serving.

Tips to Make Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls

Make sure to pat the chickpeas dry; this helps them get crispy while roasting.
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
Adjust the spices according to your taste preference—add more paprika for a smokier flavor or more salt if you like it salty.

Variation

You can substitute the cauliflower with other vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a different twist. You may also add protein like grilled chicken or tofu if you prefer.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower and chickpeas in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
Can I use a different kind of grain?
Absolutely! You can swap the white basmati rice for quinoa, farro, or any grain of your choice.
Is the Green Tahini Sauce necessary?
While it adds a creamy texture and flavor, you can skip it or use another sauce, such as a yogurt sauce or tahini diluted with water and lemon juice.