Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a vibrant and wholesome dish combining tender roasted cauliflower coated in aromatic shawarma spices with fresh vegetables and creamy sauce. This easy and customizable recipe offers a healthy, flavorful twist on traditional shawarma, perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Shawarma Spice Mix
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Other Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or 1/3 cup tahini
- Salt, to taste
Optional Add-Ons
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (roasted if desired)
- Pickled vegetables, as desired
- 1 cup cooked grains such as quinoa, bulgur, or rice
- Grilled chicken, beef strips, or falafel for added protein
- Cayenne or chili flakes for extra spice
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into florets and toss them with olive oil, half the minced garlic, and the shawarma spice mix. Ensure every piece is well coated to maximize flavor.
- Roast the Cauliflower: Spread the seasoned cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the florets are golden and tender.
- Prep Fresh Vegetables and Herbs: While the cauliflower roasts, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh herbs. This fresh mix will add crunch and balance to the warm roasted cauliflower.
- Make the Sauce: Whisk together yogurt with lemon juice, the remaining minced garlic, and a pinch of salt for a creamy topping. Alternatively, blend tahini with lemon juice, garlic, and salt to create a tangy sauce.
- Assemble the Bowls: Place the roasted cauliflower in serving bowls, top with the fresh vegetables, drizzle generously with the prepared sauce, and add optional toppings such as chickpeas or fresh herbs as desired.
Notes
- Use freshly ground cumin and paprika for a more intense shawarma flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; roast cauliflower in a single layer for crispy edges and avoid sogginess.
- Taste and adjust the yogurt or tahini sauce to balance the tanginess, salt, and garlic.
- Roast chickpeas separately for added crunch if including them in the bowl.
- These bowls can be served warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for leftovers and meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: cauliflower shawarma, roasted cauliflower, shawarma spice, healthy bowls, vegan shawarma, gluten free, meal prep, shawarma recipe