Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Wholesome Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Bowls are a flavorful and nutritious meal that perfectly balances warm, spiced cauliflower, creamy homemade hummus, and vibrant toppings. The roasted cauliflower is infused with spices like cumin and smoked paprika, adding depth to this satisfying, plant-based dish. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or as part of your meal prep, this bowl is packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for anyone following a vegan or gluten-free lifestyle. With customizable options and the ability to make ahead, these bowls are a versatile and easy meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Cauliflower:

• Fresh cauliflower florets (cut from 1 medium head)

• Extra virgin olive oil

• Ground cumin

• Smoked paprika

• Garlic powder

• Salt and pepper

For the Hummus:

• Cooked chickpeas

• Tahini (sesame seed paste)

• Freshly squeezed lemon juice

• Minced garlic

• Olive oil

• Salt

• Water (to adjust consistency)

For the Bowl Toppings:

• Cherry tomatoes, halved

• Diced cucumber

• Thinly sliced red onion

• Kalamata olives

• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

• Cooked quinoa, brown rice, or couscous (optional)

• Lemon wedges

• Toasted pita bread or flatbread (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

• Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets and place them in a large mixing bowl.

• Drizzle with olive oil and season with cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

• Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender.

• Pro Tip: For added smokiness, char the cauliflower under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch carefully to avoid burning.

Step 2: Make the Hummus

• While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the hummus. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and olive oil.

• Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.

• If the hummus is too thick, add water 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

• Taste and adjust seasoning. Homemade hummus is fresher and lighter than store-bought, but you can use pre-made hummus if you’re in a rush.

Step 3: Prepare the Toppings

• While the cauliflower roasts, prepare your toppings.

• Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, slice the red onion, and chop the parsley or cilantro.

• Set the toppings aside, along with any other optional ingredients like Kalamata olives, cooked quinoa, or toasted pita bread.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

• To assemble, start by spreading a generous scoop of hummus at the bottom of each bowl, creating a creamy base.

• Add a portion of cooked grains (like quinoa or rice) if desired.

• Layer the roasted cauliflower on top.

• Add your chopped vegetables, olives, and fresh herbs.

• Finish with a drizzle of tahini or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

• Garnish with extra parsley or cilantro for color.

Serving Suggestions

These bowls are incredibly versatile! You can enjoy them hot, cold, or at room temperature. For a more filling meal, pair with warm pita or flatbread. If you’re watching carbs, skip the bread or use a gluten-free alternative. For an extra flavor boost, serve with pickled vegetables or a dollop of tzatziki sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Store each component separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge.

• Reheating: Reheat the roasted cauliflower in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 30-60 seconds. Assemble the bowls just before serving to preserve the freshness and texture of the ingredients.

FAQs

Can I make the cauliflower ahead of time?

Yes! You can roast the cauliflower ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before assembling your bowl.

What can I use instead of tahini?

If you don’t have tahini, you can use sunflower seed butter or cashew butter as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the pita bread or flatbread is gluten-free if you’re including it.

Can I add protein to the bowl?

For extra protein, you can add roasted chickpeas, grilled tofu, or even some cooked lentils to the bowl.

What grains can I use in this dish?

You can use quinoa, brown rice, couscous, or any other grain of your choice. For a gluten-free option, quinoa is an excellent choice.

How long will this dish stay fresh?

Stored in the fridge in airtight containers, each component will stay fresh for up to 4 days. The assembled bowls will stay fresh for 1-2 days.

Can I freeze the hummus or cauliflower?

Yes, you can freeze both the hummus and roasted cauliflower. To reheat, simply thaw overnight and warm up in the oven or microwave.

Can I add other vegetables to the bowl?

Definitely! Feel free to add roasted or fresh veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to make the dish even more colorful and nutrient-packed.

What other toppings can I add?

Consider adding feta cheese, olives, avocado, or a drizzle of olive oil to enhance the flavor and texture of the bowl.

Conclusion

Wholesome Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Bowls are a vibrant, satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or preparing it as part of your meal prep for the week, this recipe is customizable, healthy, and perfect for a variety of dietary needs. The combination of roasted cauliflower, creamy hummus, and fresh toppings creates a balance of textures and flavors that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied. Enjoy these bowls as a fulfilling meal for any time of day!