This Lebanese Roasted Cauliflower with a creamy tahini sauce brings together a mix of rich flavors, crispy textures, and vibrant garnishes for a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish. It’s perfect for serving alongside pita, grilled meats, or part of a mezze platter. This recipe is simple, nutritious, and packs a bold flavor that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The nutty, slightly bitter flavor of roasted cauliflower combined with the creamy tahini sauce and bursts of freshness from pomegranate seeds or parsley makes this side dish a versatile and healthy choice. It’s ideal for anyone looking to add more plant-based dishes to their table, and it’s quick to prepare with ingredients you likely already have.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Roasted Cauliflower
- 1 large head of cauliflower: Cut into bite-sized florets for even roasting.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Enhances the golden, crispy texture.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional): Adds a warm, earthy flavor that pairs well with the tahini sauce.
For the Tahini Sauce
- 1/4 cup tahini: Gives a creamy, nutty base for the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and a slight tang.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: For a punch of flavor.
- 2-3 tablespoons water: Adjust to get a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Salt, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds color and freshness.
- Pomegranate seeds: For a sweet-tart crunch.
- Toasted pine nuts: Adds a nutty, buttery flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Roast the Cauliflower
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Season and Prepare: Place cauliflower florets on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and ground cumin (if using). Toss everything to ensure an even coating.
- Roast: Spread the florets in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and tender.
2. Prepare the Tahini Sauce
- Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
- Adjust Consistency: Slowly add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce is smooth and pourable.
3. Assemble and Serve
- Drizzle: Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving plate and drizzle generously with the tahini sauce.
- Garnish: For added texture and color, sprinkle fresh parsley, pomegranate seeds, and toasted pine nuts over the top.
Serving Suggestions
This Lebanese Roasted Cauliflower with tahini sauce pairs beautifully with other Mediterranean dishes. Try serving it with:
- Warm pita bread
- Grilled meats or fish
- Other mezze items like hummus, baba ghanoush, or tabbouleh
Tips for Success
- Uniform Florets: Cut cauliflower into similar-sized pieces to ensure even roasting.
- Thin the Sauce: Add water gradually to get the right consistency for drizzling without making the sauce too runny.
- Watch the Cauliflower: Oven times can vary, so check the cauliflower in the last few minutes to avoid over-roasting.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The tahini sauce can also be refrigerated separately for up to a week.
- Reheating: Reheat cauliflower in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the tahini sauce a day in advance to save time.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
This Lebanese Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Sauce is a simple yet sophisticated side dish that brings together rich flavors, beautiful colors, and delightful textures. Enjoy it as a part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal or as a healthy side for any occasion.
