Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Salad

Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Salad

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

For the roasted cauliflower:

• 1 medium head cauliflower (cut into florets)
• 2–3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika (or smoked paprika)
• ½ tsp turmeric (optional, for color)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 2 cloves garlic (minced or powder)

For the salad base:

• 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
• ½ cucumber (sliced)
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ¼ red onion (thinly sliced)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• Optional: ¼ cup chickpeas (roasted or boiled)

For the tahini dressing:

• 3 tbsp tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small garlic clove (grated or minced)
• 2–4 tbsp water (to thin)
• Salt to taste
• Optional: ½ tsp honey (for slight sweetness)

🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Roast the Cauliflower

• Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
• Toss cauliflower florets with:
  • olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, garlic, salt, pepper
• Spread on a baking tray in a single layer
• Roast for 25–35 minutes, flipping halfway
• Roast until edges are golden and slightly crispy

2. Make the Tahini Dressing

• In a bowl, whisk together:
  • tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt
• Add water gradually until it becomes smooth and pourable
  👉 It should look creamy, not paste-like

3. Prep the Salad Base

• In a large bowl or platter:
  • Add greens, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, parsley
  • Add chickpeas if using

4. Assemble the Salad

• Add warm roasted cauliflower on top
• Drizzle generously with tahini dressing
• Toss lightly or serve layered (your choice)

5. Serve

• Best served slightly warm or at room temperature
• Optional garnish:
  • sesame seeds
  • chili flakes
  • extra lemon juice

🌟 Tips for Best Flavor

• Don’t overcrowd the tray—crispy cauliflower needs space
• Add dressing just before serving to keep greens fresh
• Roast cauliflower until deeply golden for a nutty taste

🔄 Variations

• Protein boost: add grilled chicken or boiled eggs
• Mediterranean style: add olives + feta
• Spicy version: add chili paste or cayenne to tahini
• Grain bowl version: serve over quinoa or brown rice