Name: Cauliflower Shawarma Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 head cauliflower; 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 red onion, sliced; 1 cup quinoa; 1 cup diced cucumber; 1 cup diced tomato; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/3 cup tahini; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 garlic clove, minced; 2–3 tablespoons warm water

Packed with bold spices, hearty vegetables, and protein-rich chickpeas, this Cauliflower Shawarma Bowl is the ultimate flavor-loaded meal that checks all the boxes. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking for a healthy dinner idea, this bowl delivers taste, texture, and comfort with every bite.

Roasted cauliflower is tossed in a warming mix of Middle Eastern-inspired spices, then paired with crispy chickpeas, fresh cucumber-tomato salad, fluffy quinoa, and a tangy tahini drizzle. It’s a satisfying meatless meal that’s equally great for weekday meal prep or dinner parties with friends.

What Kind of Cauliflower Should I Use?

Go for a fresh, firm head of cauliflower with tightly packed florets. You can also use pre-cut cauliflower florets from the store for convenience, but make sure they aren’t too small, so they don’t burn during roasting.

Ingredients for the Cauliflower Shawarma Bowl

Cauliflower: The star of the dish. When roasted, it becomes tender with beautifully crispy edges, absorbing all the spice flavors.

Chickpeas: Roasted until golden and slightly crispy for a hearty, protein-packed crunch.

Red Onion: Adds a sweet, caramelized note when roasted alongside the cauliflower.

Quinoa: A fluffy, gluten-free grain that provides balance and substance to the bowl.

Cucumber & Tomato Salad: A refreshing contrast to the warm spices, adding crunch and brightness.

Fresh Parsley: Brings freshness and a pop of color.

Tahini Sauce: Creamy, nutty, and slightly tangy—perfect for drizzling over everything.

How To Make the Cauliflower Shawarma Bowl

Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower and Chickpeas

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cauliflower florets and chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 2: Cook the Quinoa

While the cauliflower roasts, rinse the quinoa under cold water. Add it to a pot with water (2:1 ratio), bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy. Let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 3: Make the Salad

Dice cucumber and tomatoes, season with salt and a squeeze of lemon juice. Add chopped parsley and stir to combine. Set aside.

Step 4: Whip Up the Tahini Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and warm water until smooth and pourable.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Divide quinoa among bowls. Top with roasted cauliflower, chickpeas, red onion, and cucumber-tomato salad. Drizzle generously with tahini sauce and sprinkle extra parsley on top.

Serving and Storing Your Shawarma Bowl

Serve your Cauliflower Shawarma Bowl warm right after assembly for the best contrast between hot and cold elements. Leftovers can be stored separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat the cauliflower and chickpeas in the oven or air fryer for crispiness. Keep the salad and tahini sauce chilled until ready to serve.

What to Serve With Cauliflower Shawarma Bowl?

Warm Pita Bread

Soft, fluffy pita is perfect for scooping up every bite and soaking up that delicious tahini sauce.

Pickled Onions

Bright and tangy pickled onions make a great topping for even more flavor punch.

Hummus

A creamy side of hummus brings extra protein and that classic Mediterranean feel.

Tzatziki Sauce

A cool, garlicky yogurt sauce is great if you want a creamy alternative to tahini.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes add a soft and sweet element that balances the spices.

Spiced Lentil Soup

A cozy addition if you’re serving this bowl for dinner in colder weather.

Want More Healthy Bowl Ideas?

If you love this veggie-packed Shawarma Bowl, check out these other flavorful creations:

Tex-Mex Salad loaded with avocado, beans, and bold spices.
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight for a protein-rich, one-pan wonder.
Chicken Spinach and Mushroom is a cozy, one-skillet option.
Cabbage Fat Burning Soup for a low-calorie warm-up.
Creamy Crab Pasta Salad when you’re in the mood for chilled seafood pasta.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this flavor-loaded plant-based bowl to your go-to Pinterest board so you can whip it up on a busy weeknight or for your next meal prep session.

Tried adding extra spice? A dash of harissa or cayenne? Let me know in the comments what twists you gave it!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Cauliflower Shawarma Bowl

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

Craving a flavorful plant-based dinner idea? This Cauliflower Shawarma Bowl is here to satisfy! Roasted spiced cauliflower meets crispy chickpeas, fresh cucumber-tomato salad, fluffy quinoa, and a creamy tahini sauce for a bold, nourishing bowl packed with vibrant flavor and texture. Perfect for quick dinners, easy meal prep, or healthy lunch ideas. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free meal, meatless Monday inspiration, or just a comforting bowl of food, this easy recipe checks every box.