Sesame Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower Quinoa Salad with Creamy Tahini Dressing
This vibrant salad features golden turmeric-roasted cauliflower and protein-packed quinoa, tossed with a creamy tahini-lemon dressing. It’s Mediterranean, plant-based, anti-inflammatory, and filling, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Prep: 10 minutes
Roast: 25 minutes
Assemble: 5 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Serves: 2–3
Ingredients
Roasted Cauliflower
1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp turmeric powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper to taste
Salad Base
1 cup cooked quinoa
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cucumber, diced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Creamy Tahini Dressing
2 tbsp tahini
Juice of ½ lemon
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp maple syrup or 0–1 tsp if weight-loss friendly
2–3 tbsp water (to thin)
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
Roast Cauliflower
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
Toss cauliflower with olive oil, turmeric, paprika, salt & pepper
Roast 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender
Prepare Dressing
Whisk tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup (if using), salt & pepper
Add water gradually to reach creamy, pourable consistency
Assemble Salad
In a large bowl, combine quinoa, roasted cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley
Drizzle dressing and toss gently
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds
Serve
Serve warm or chilled
Optional: add chickpeas or feta for extra protein
Tips
Roast cauliflower until edges are slightly caramelized for best flavor
Add avocado or pumpkin seeds for healthy fats
Can prepare quinoa and cauliflower ahead for meal prep
Tahini dressing can be made in bulk and stored up to 5 days
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this weight-loss friendly?
Yes — high fiber, plant protein, moderate healthy fat
Can I make it vegan?
Yes — naturally vegan; optional feta can be skipped
Can I increase protein?
Yes — add chickpeas, edamame, or grilled tofu
Can I make it ahead?
Yes — store roasted cauliflower and quinoa separately; toss with dressing before serving
Nutritional Information
Calories: 330 kcal
Protein: 12 g
Carbs: 38 g
Fat: 14 g
Fiber: 10 g