Name: Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-482860H38M
Total time: PT-482860H38M
Ingredients: 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1/2 cup hummus; 1/4 cup diced cucumbers; 1/4 cup diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup diced red onion; Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful meal that brings the taste of Middle Eastern shawarma into a vegetarian-friendly dish. Roasted cauliflower florets seasoned with paprika, cumin, and garlic powder offer a smoky, spicy base that pairs perfectly with the creamy, rich hummus and fresh, crisp veggies. Served over a bed of quinoa, these bowls are not only nutritious but also satisfying. Whether you’re following a plant-based diet or just looking for a lighter meal, this dish has everything you need in terms of flavor, texture, and nutrition. The combination of roasted cauliflower and fresh vegetables makes each bite a balanced burst of flavors, while the quinoa adds a wholesome and hearty base. This dish is quick to prepare and can be easily customized, making it perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or a satisfying lunch or dinner. With its vibrant colors and satisfying layers, Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls offer a fresh twist on the traditional shawarma, perfect for anyone looking for a nourishing yet flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthy and Nutritious

Cauliflower is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, while quinoa adds a complete protein, making this dish not only delicious but also highly nutritious.

2. Full of Flavor

The blend of paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and fresh ingredients creates a flavorful and aromatic dish that satisfies your taste buds with every bite.

3. Easy to Prepare

This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, requiring only 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking, making it ideal for busy days.

4. Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly

The recipe is both vegetarian and vegan, making it accessible for anyone following plant-based diets, without compromising on taste or satisfaction.

5. Customizable

The beauty of this bowl is that you can easily adapt it to your tastes. Add or remove toppings like olives, feta cheese, or pickled vegetables to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

Cauliflower florets
Olive oil
Paprika
Cumin
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper
Cooked quinoa
Hummus
Diced cucumbers
Diced tomatoes
Diced red onion
Fresh parsley

Variations

1. Add Protein

For an extra boost of protein, you can add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or falafel to the bowl.

2. Spicy Version

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the cauliflower seasoning for some extra heat.

3. Tahini Sauce

Instead of hummus, drizzle some creamy tahini sauce over the bowl for a rich, nutty flavor that complements the cauliflower perfectly.

4. Add Greens

For added freshness, top the bowl with some mixed greens or spinach before serving.

5. Rice Instead of Quinoa

If you’re not a fan of quinoa, you can easily substitute it with cooked rice or couscous as a base.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for roasting the cauliflower.

Step 2: Season the Cauliflower

In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the cauliflower is evenly coated with the seasonings.

Step 3: Roast the Cauliflower

Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and crispy at the edges.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Once the cauliflower is roasted, it’s time to assemble the bowls. Divide the cooked quinoa into four bowls as the base.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Top the quinoa with roasted cauliflower, hummus, diced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, diced red onion, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the bowls hot, and enjoy the flavors of this satisfying and nutritious meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Even Roasting: To ensure that the cauliflower roasts evenly, make sure the florets are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding.
Season to Taste: Adjust the amount of seasoning based on your preferences. You can always add more paprika or garlic powder if you prefer a stronger flavor.
Use Cooked Quinoa: Quinoa cooks quickly, so make sure it’s ready before assembling the bowls. You can also make it in advance for meal prep.
Top with Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies like cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions add crunch and freshness, which complements the roasted cauliflower perfectly.
Roast the Cauliflower in Batches: If you’re making a larger batch, roast the cauliflower in two batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure crispiness.

How to Serve

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are best served as a complete meal on their own, with the quinoa and roasted cauliflower offering a balanced combination of flavors. Serve the bowls with a side of pita bread or extra hummus for added texture. For an even more satisfying meal, top with additional protein like falafel, grilled chicken, or chickpeas.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of the roasted cauliflower, quinoa, and hummus can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The fresh toppings, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and parsley, are best added just before serving.

Freezing

While the roasted cauliflower can be frozen, it’s best to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. When ready to use, reheat the cauliflower in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, simply warm the roasted cauliflower and quinoa in the oven or microwave. If desired, you can freshen up the toppings with a quick drizzle of extra hummus or tahini.

FAQs

1. Can I make the cauliflower ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the cauliflower in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it before serving.

2. Can I substitute the quinoa with another grain?

Yes, you can substitute quinoa with rice, couscous, or even farro, depending on your preference.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

4. Can I use frozen cauliflower?

Fresh cauliflower is recommended for the best texture, but you can use frozen cauliflower in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain it properly before roasting.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the cauliflower seasoning mix to give it a spicy kick.

6. Can I add a protein to the bowl?

Yes, grilled chicken, falafel, or roasted chickpeas make excellent additions to this dish for extra protein.

7. Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, you can prepare the quinoa and roasted cauliflower in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble the bowls when ready to eat.

8. Can I make the bowls vegan?

Yes, the recipe is already vegan as long as you use plant-based hummus.

9. How long will the roasted cauliflower last in the fridge?

The roasted cauliflower can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

10. Can I make the bowls without quinoa?

Yes, you can substitute quinoa with another base like couscous, rice, or even a green salad for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls offer a fresh, flavorful, and nutritious alternative to traditional shawarma. The combination of roasted cauliflower, creamy hummus, and fresh vegetables makes this dish satisfying and full of flavor. With minimal prep time and the option to customize, these bowls are perfect for anyone seeking a healthy, plant-based meal. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep favorite, Cauliflower Shawarma Bowls are sure to become a go-to in your recipe rotation.