Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mind-blowing Roasted Cauliflower Shawarma Chickpea Salad that promises to revolutionize your meal prep! This isn't just another boring salad - it's a flavor explosion that combines the smoky, spiced magic of shawarma with crispy roasted vegetables and creamy tahini dressing. Perfect for those seeking a quick, nutritious meal that doesn't compromise on taste, this recipe will transport your senses straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East - all from the comfort of your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons shawarma spice blend
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup tahini dressing
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cauliflower florets and drained chickpeas. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle shawarma spice blend evenly over the vegetables. Use your hands to toss and coat thoroughly, ensuring every piece is well-seasoned.
- Spread the cauliflower and chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even roasting and crispy edges.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through cooking. The cauliflower should be golden brown and slightly charred, and the chickpeas crispy.
- While the vegetables are roasting, prepare the mixed greens by washing and patting them dry with a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner.
- Once roasted, remove the cauliflower and chickpeas from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes to prevent wilting the salad greens.
- In a large serving bowl, arrange the mixed greens as a base. Top with the roasted cauliflower and chickpeas.
- Drizzle tahini dressing over the salad, and season with additional salt to taste.
- Serve immediately while the roasted vegetables are still warm, creating a delightful contrast with the cool, crisp greens.
Tips
- Spice Blend Secrets: For the most authentic flavor, consider making your own shawarma spice blend using a mix of cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and garlic powder.
- Crispy Vegetable Technique: To achieve maximum crispiness, ensure your baking sheet is not overcrowded. Use a large sheet or split between two to give vegetables enough space to roast, not steam.
- Tahini Dressing Hack: If your tahini dressing is too thick, thin it out with a little water or lemon juice to achieve the perfect drizzling consistency.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This salad can be partially prepared in advance. Roast the cauliflower and chickpeas ahead of time and store separately, then assemble just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
- Customization Options: Feel free to add extra protein like grilled chicken or falafel, or make it vegan by ensuring your tahini dressing is dairy-free.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 244kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
