Harissa Roasted Cauliflower & Chickpea Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing
This Harissa Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Salad is a bold yet balanced Mediterranean dish featuring caramelized cauliflower florets, crispy chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a creamy lemon-tahini dressing. The gentle warmth of harissa pairs beautifully with earthy vegetables and bright citrus, making this salad hearty enough for a meal yet fresh enough for any season.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
For Roasting
1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
1½ cups cooked chickpeas (or canned, rinsed & dried)
1½ tbsp olive oil
1–2 tsp harissa paste (use 1 tsp for mild)
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Salad Base
2 cups baby spinach or arugula
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
For the Lemon-Tahini Dressing
3 tbsp tahini
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 small garlic clove, grated
2–3 tbsp water
Salt, to taste
Optional Toppings
Pomegranate seeds
Toasted almonds or pine nuts
Crumbled feta
Instructions
1. Roast the Cauliflower & Chickpeas
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
In a large bowl, mix olive oil, harissa, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add cauliflower and chickpeas; toss well to coat.
Spread evenly on a lined baking tray.
Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and slightly crispy.
2. Make the Dressing
Whisk tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
Add water gradually until smooth and pourable.
Taste and adjust lemon or salt.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, add spinach/arugula, red onion, parsley, and mint.
Top with warm roasted cauliflower and chickpeas.
Drizzle generously with lemon-tahini dressing.
Finish with optional toppings.
Tips & Notes
Very mild version: Replace harissa with sweet paprika + cumin.
Oil-free: Roast using parchment paper and a splash of lemon juice.
Extra protein: Add grilled chicken or baked tofu.
Meal prep: Keep dressing separate; salad lasts 3 days refrigerated.
Flavor upgrade: A pinch of sumac on top = chef’s kiss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is harissa very spicy?
Not always—many versions are mild. Start with 1 tsp and adjust.
Q2: Can I serve this cold?
Yes! Warm or chilled both taste amazing.
Q3: Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes—thaw and dry well before roasting.
Q4: Is this salad vegan?
Yes, unless you add feta.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~360 kcal
Protein: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fat: 18 g
Fiber: 10 g
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: ~300 mg