Easy Cauliflower Shawarma Bowl
This vibrant bowl features spiced roasted cauliflower tossed in classic Middle Eastern shawarma seasonings, served over fluffy herbed rice (or quinoa) with crisp veggies, tangy pickled onions, and a creamy lemon-tahini dressing. It’s a plant-based Mediterranean meal that’s both satisfying and nutrient-rich — full of warm, smoky, and zesty flavors.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 2–3
Ingredients
For the Roasted Cauliflower
1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp turmeric
½ tsp ground coriander
¼ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Juice of ½ lemon
For the Herbed Rice
1 cup basmati rice
2 cups water
Pinch of salt
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Optional: lemon zest for brightness
For the Creamy Tahini Sauce
3 tbsp tahini
1½ tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp warm water
Salt, to taste
For the Toppings
¼ cup pickled red onions
½ cucumber, diced
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup hummus
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
Fresh mint or parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Roast the Cauliflower
Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Roast for 25 minutes, tossing halfway, until golden and crisp on edges.
2. Cook the Herbed Rice
Rinse rice until water runs clear.
Combine rice, water, olive oil, and salt in a saucepan.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes.
Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped herbs and lemon zest.
3. Make the Tahini Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and water.
Add more water as needed to reach a creamy drizzle consistency.
4. Assemble the Shawarma Bowl
Add a base of herbed rice to each bowl.
Top with roasted cauliflower.
Add cucumber, tomatoes, and pickled onions.
Spoon on hummus and drizzle generously with tahini sauce.
Sprinkle with feta cheese and fresh mint or parsley.
Notes & Tips
For extra protein, add crispy chickpeas or grilled halloumi.
Want more heat? Sprinkle with Aleppo pepper or a pinch of chili flakes.
To meal prep: store components separately for up to 4 days and assemble before eating.
Serve with warm pita bread or flatbread on the side for dipping.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 540
Protein: 15 g
Carbs: 56 g
Fat: 26 g
Fiber: 9 g