Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Bowl

Name: Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup tahini; 3 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; Water to thin the dressing; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Optional toppings: pumpkin seeds, pomegranate seeds

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I always enjoy creating vibrant and wholesome meals that are not only nutritious but packed with flavor. The Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Bowl has become one of my go-to dishes because of its delicious combination of roasted vegetables and a creamy tahini dressing. The nutty, rich taste of tahini elevates the roasted cauliflower, making it a satisfying main or side dish. I love how this bowl is not only beautiful but also incredibly easy to prepare, allowing me to indulge in healthy eating without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Natalie Warren

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:22:17.366Z

When I first made this Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Bowl, I was surprised by how the roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the cauliflower. I let the florets develop a lovely golden-brown color, which enhances their flavor immensely. The easy tahini dressing adds a creamy richness that ties everything together perfectly.

One tip I've learned is to drizzle the tahini dressing right before serving. This keeps the vegetables crisp and gives the bowl a fresh touch. I often pair this with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or some crunchy seeds for an extra layer of texture. It really takes the dish to the next level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutty tahini flavor combined with caramelized cauliflower
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
Versatile dish that can be served warm or cold

      

Unlocking Flavor Through Roasting

Roasting is a key technique in this recipe that enhances the natural sweetness of the cauliflower. By cooking the florets at a high temperature of 425°F (220°C), you encourage browning and caramelization, which contribute to a deeper, more complex flavor. Aim for golden edges: they are an indicator that the cauliflower is perfectly roasted and will provide that desired rich, nutty undertone that pairs beautifully with tahini.

Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet while roasting. This can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which can prevent the development of flavor. If you have a lot of cauliflower, consider using two baking sheets. Arrange the florets in a single layer to ensure optimal roasting and even cooking.

The Art of Tahini Dressing

The tahini dressing is not just a topping; it's what brings this bowl together. Tahini provides creaminess and a nutty flavor, but its thick texture can be challenging. When mixing, start with the tahini, then slowly whisk in lemon juice and maple syrup, combining thoroughly before adding water. This gradual incorporation helps maintain a smooth, glossy texture that's essential to the dressing's appeal. If your dressing becomes too thin, add more tahini to reach a better consistency.

Lemon juice not only adds acidity but also brightens up the flavors. If you prefer a different tang, try substituting with vinegar or a splash of tamari for a unique twist. Additionally, adjusting the maple syrup can help balance out the bitterness of the tahini, making the dressing perfect for your taste.

Serving and Storing Tips

This Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Bowl is incredibly versatile! Enjoy it warm right after assembly or let it cool to room temperature for a refreshing cold dish. The flavors marry beautifully after a few hours, so consider preparing your bowl in advance for lunch or dinner. It’s also worth mentioning that you can double the tahini dressing and store it in the fridge. It will keep well for about a week, making it an excellent addition for drizzling over salads or roasted veggies.

For variations, consider adding grains like quinoa or brown rice to increase protein and texture. You can also experiment with seasonal vegetables, substituting in sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts for additional flavor profiles. If you have leftovers, simply store the components separately to maintain freshness, as the dressing can soften the roasted cauliflower over time.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Bowl:

Ingredients

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup tahini
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon maple syrup
Water to thin the dressing
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional toppings: pumpkin seeds, pomegranate seeds

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a delicious and healthy bowl!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Bowl:

Roast the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.

Prepare the Tahini Dressing

While the cauliflower is roasting, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, and enough water to reach your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Assemble the Bowl

Once the cauliflower is done, let it cool for a couple of minutes. In bowl, place a generous serving of roasted cauliflower, drizzle with tahini dressing, and garnish with fresh parsley and optional toppings like pumpkin or pomegranate seeds.

Your delicious and nutritious Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Bowl is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this bowl by adding your favorite grains, like quinoa or rice, and using different roasted vegetables for variety.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have tahini on hand, you can substitute it with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a similar creamy texture. While the flavor will vary slightly, both options still provide a satisfying richness. For those needing to avoid nuts, sunflower seed butter is a safe choice for a nut-free tahini alternative.

Garlic powder can be replaced with fresh minced garlic if you prefer a more robust garlic flavor. Use one clove of garlic for every teaspoon of garlic powder. If fresh garlic is used, be careful not to burn it during roasting, as it can add an unpleasant bitterness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your roasted cauliflower isn't browning as expected, double-check your oven temperature. An oven thermometer can be helpful if you’re unsure about your oven’s accuracy. Additionally, ensure the florets are evenly spaced and pat them dry before oiling to eliminate excess moisture, which can inhibit roasting.

In case your tahini dressing is too bitter, adjusting the sweetness with more maple syrup can help balance the flavors. On the other hand, if the dressing is too thick, adding water gradually until you reach the desired consistency is key. Avoid adding too much at once to maintain control over the texture.

Scaling the Recipe

To scale this Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Bowl recipe for a larger crowd, simply multiply the ingredient quantities. For best results, consider roasting the cauliflower in batches to prevent overcrowding on the baking sheet, especially if you are preparing for more than four people. This ensures even cooking and enhances flavor development.

For meal prep efficiency, prepare the tahini dressing in larger batches and store it in airtight containers in the fridge. This way, you can quickly assemble meals throughout the week without needing to make the dressing each time. Each component of this bowl can be stored separately, allowing you to mix and match as desired.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the tahini dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tahini dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What can I substitute for tahini?

You can use sunflower seed butter or almond butter if you're looking for a tahini alternative.

→ Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Fresh cauliflower is recommended for optimal texture, but if using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and dried before roasting.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare and store the components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.