Indulge in the warm, aromatic flavors of these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls, a plant-based twist on the classic Middle Eastern dish. The golden-roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas are coated in an earthy shawarma spice blend, giving them a bold, smoky flavor. Served over a bed of fluffy basmati rice and drizzled with a creamy Green Tahini Sauce, this bowl is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal or a nutritious option for meal prep, these bowls deliver big on both taste and health. The fresh cucumber and juicy cherry tomatoes add a refreshing crunch, while the tahini sauce ties everything together with its nutty, zesty goodness. This is the kind of meal that keeps you coming back for more rich, wholesome, and incredibly delicious!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 large head cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, rinsed, drained, and patted dry
- 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 Tbsp. curry powder
- 2 tsp. paprika
- 1 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 2 cups cooked white basmati rice (or grain of choice)
- Optional toppings: Thinly sliced English or Persian cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes
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
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, mix the curry powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the cauliflower and chickpeas on separate baking sheets (or one large sheet if space allows).
- Toss cauliflower with 2 Tbsp. of olive oil, and chickpeas with 1 Tbsp. of olive oil.
- Sprinkle 1 Tbsp. of the spice mixture over chickpeas and toss. Then, sprinkle the remaining spice mixture over cauliflower and toss well.
- Roast both trays in the oven: chickpeas for 30 minutes (shake pan halfway through), and cauliflower for 35-40 minutes, until golden brown.
- While roasting, prepare the Green Tahini Sauce by blending all sauce ingredients with 1/3 cup warm water until smooth.
- Assemble bowls by placing ½ cup cooked rice in each bowl. Top with roasted cauliflower and chickpeas, and optional cucumber slices or tomatoes.
- Drizzle generously with Green Tahini Sauce and serve warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes Kcal: 402 kcal | Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Packed with Flavor
The combination of curry powder, paprika, cumin, and black pepper creates a warm and aromatic spice blend that enhances the natural nutty flavors of cauliflower. Roasting the cauliflower brings out its sweetness while creating a crispy, slightly charred exterior.
2. Protein-Rich and Satisfying
While cauliflower is the star of this dish, crispy roasted chickpeas add a hearty dose of plant-based protein and fiber. This makes the bowl more filling, helping to keep you satiated for hours. The chickpeas also add a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the softer texture of the cauliflower and rice.
3. Versatile and Customizable
One of the best things about these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls is their versatility. You can swap the rice for other grains like quinoa, farro, or bulgur, or even serve it over leafy greens for a lighter version. The toppings can be adjusted to your preference—add avocado, pickled onions, shredded carrots, or fresh herbs for extra freshness.
4. Easy to Make
This dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights. The cauliflower and chickpeas roast in the oven at the same time, allowing you to focus on preparing the Green Tahini Sauce and assembling the bowls. The entire meal comes together in under an hour, making it a convenient yet impressive dish.
5. Great for Meal Prep
If you’re looking for a meal prep-friendly recipe, this bowl is a fantastic choice. You can prepare all components in advance and store them separately in airtight containers. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the roasted cauliflower and chickpeas, assemble your bowl, and drizzle with the sauce. This makes it an ideal option for work lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
What Makes This Bowl So Special?
Cauliflower – A Nutritious Powerhouse
Cauliflower is a versatile and nutrient-dense vegetable that provides an excellent source of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins. It is low in calories yet incredibly filling, making it a fantastic choice for a light but satisfying meal. When roasted, cauliflower develops a deep caramelized flavor, which pairs beautifully with the warm shawarma spices.
Chickpeas – The Crunchy Protein Addition
Chickpeas not only bring a boost of protein and fiber to this dish, but they also add an irresistible crunch when roasted. Tossed with olive oil and the spice blend, they become crispy on the outside while remaining soft and tender inside.
Green Tahini Sauce – The Creamy Finishing Touch
What truly ties this bowl together is the Green Tahini Sauce. Made with tahini, fresh herbs (cilantro and parsley), lemon juice, and garlic, this sauce adds a zesty, nutty, and creamy element that complements the spices beautifully. The sauce is so delicious that you might find yourself making an extra batch to drizzle over salads, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls throughout the week.
Health Benefits of Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Beyond their incredible taste, these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are packed with nutritional benefits. Here’s why they’re a great addition to your diet:
✔ Rich in Fiber: Both cauliflower and chickpeas are excellent sources of fiber, which helps improve digestion and keeps you feeling full.
✔ High in Plant-Based Protein: Chickpeas provide a good amount of protein, making this meal ideal for vegetarians and vegans looking to meet their protein needs.
✔ Loaded with Antioxidants: The spices used in this recipe curry powder, paprika, and cumin—are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, supporting overall health.
✔ Heart-Healthy Fats: The olive oil and tahini in this recipe contribute healthy fats that are beneficial for brain function and heart health.
✔ Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
These bowls are highly customizable, allowing you to tailor them to your personal preferences. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shawarma spice mix for extra heat.
- Add More Protein: If you want even more protein, you can serve these bowls with grilled chicken, tofu, or tempeh.
- Swap the Grains: Instead of basmati rice, try using quinoa, farro, or bulgur for a different texture.
- Turn It Into a Wrap: Stuff the roasted cauliflower and chickpeas into warm pita bread or naan, add some shredded lettuce and tomatoes, and drizzle with the tahini sauce for a delicious shawarma wrap.
- Try Different Toppings: Avocado, pickled onions, feta cheese (if not vegan), or a dollop of hummus would be great additions.
Conclusion:
The Cauliflower Shawarma Bowl is a dish that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. With its warm and aromatic spices, crispy textures, and creamy tahini drizzle, every bite is packed with delicious, well-balanced flavors. Whether you’re looking for a plant-based meal option, a meal prep-friendly dish, or simply a flavorful dinner idea, this bowl is a fantastic choice.
Easy to prepare, nutrient-rich, and highly customizable, these Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try them out and enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste!