Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Rice Bowl

Name: Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 cup uncooked brown rice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup tahini; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making this Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Rice Bowl as it combines my favorite flavors into a nutritious and satisfying meal. The roasted cauliflower adds a smoky depth while the tahini brings a creamy, nutty richness that complements the fluffy rice. I enjoy whipping this up for lunch or dinner, and it's become a go-to recipe for busy weekdays. Plus, it's versatile enough to incorporate any veggies I have on hand, making it a fantastic use of leftovers!

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:25:34.952Z

When I first tried combining roasted cauliflower with tahini, I was amazed at how well the flavors melded together. The nutty tahini balances the slight bitterness of the cauliflower, creating a perfect harmony. It’s a great way to showcase vegetables in a dish that feels hearty and satisfying.

I also discovered that adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens everything up beautifully. This simple trick elevates the flavors and transforms this bowl into a delightful meal that I'm sure you will enjoy as much as I do!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Nutty tahini pairs perfectly with roasted cauliflower, creating a delicious flavor combination.
The rice serves as a comforting base that enhances the dish's overall texture and heartiness.
It's a flexible recipe that allows for the use of any vegetables you have on hand.

Mastering the Roasting of Cauliflower

Roasting cauliflower is a game-changer for flavor, as the high heat caramelizes its natural sugars, resulting in beautifully browned florets. To achieve the best texture, ensure the cauliflower is evenly coated in olive oil and seasonings. Spread it in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring the pieces do not touch, which helps them roast rather than steam. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 25 minutes, keeping an eye out for a golden brown color and fork-tender texture.

If you want to elevate the flavor even more, consider adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a dusting of Parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of roasting. This can create a savory, cheesy finish that pairs wonderfully with the tahini sauce. Also, if you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be tossed in with the seasoning mix.

Cooking Brown Rice Perfectly

Achieving perfectly cooked brown rice can be tricky, as it requires a bit more time and water than white rice. The standard ratio is 2 cups of water to 1 cup of rice, which you can adjust based on your desired texture. I recommend bringing the water to a boil with a pinch of salt, then adding the rinsed brown rice, reducing the heat to low, and covering to simmer for about 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by tasting; it should be tender but still provide a slight chew.

After cooking, let the rice sit covered for 5-10 minutes off the heat. This resting period allows any remaining moisture to redistribute, resulting in fluffier grains. For a touch of flavor, consider cooking the rice in vegetable broth instead of water, enhancing its taste as the base for this vibrant bowl.

Crafting the Perfect Tahini Sauce

The tahini sauce is essential in bringing creaminess and a complex nutty flavor to your Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Rice Bowl. To ensure a smooth consistency, start by whisking tahini with lemon juice and a pinch of salt. It’s important to add water gradually; I usually start with a tablespoon at a time until it reaches the desired drizzle-able thickness. If you find the sauce too bitter, a touch of maple syrup or honey can balance the flavors beautifully.

If you like additional layers of flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a dash of cumin to the tahini mixture. These enhancements deepen the complexity and can make the sauce even more exciting. This versatile sauce can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it an excellent make-ahead component for quick meals throughout the week.

Ingredients

Gather these delicious ingredients to make your Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Rice Bowl:

For the Bowl

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 cup uncooked brown rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup tahini
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and nutritious bowl.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Rice Bowl:

Roast the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes, or until golden and tender.

Cook the Rice

While the cauliflower is roasting, cook the brown rice according to package instructions. This usually takes about 30-35 minutes for perfect fluffiness.

Prepare the Tahini Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. If the mixture is too thick, add a little water until it reaches a drizzle-able consistency.

Assemble the Bowl

To serve, divide the cooked rice between two bowls. Top with the roasted cauliflower and drizzle generously with tahini sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in any vegetables you have leftover
roasted carrots or broccoli work particularly well. Adjust the tahini sauce thickness by adding more or less water, depending on your preference!

Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Rice Bowl is incredibly versatile. While it stands out on its own, don’t hesitate to augment the bowl with other toppings, such as sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, or cooked chickpeas to boost protein. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and an extra touch of flavor.

For a fresh twist, serve the bowl with a side of pickled vegetables, which cuts through the richness of the tahini sauce. A simple cucumber and radish pickling can be done a day in advance, providing a tangy counterbalance to the creamy textures of the dish.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

If you're making this bowl in advance, store the roasted cauliflower, rice, and tahini sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will keep everything fresh, allowing you to reassemble the bowl just before serving. The components will stay fresh for about 4-5 days, making it a perfect option for meal prep.

When reheating the rice and cauliflower, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent dryness. I often reheat the cauliflower in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to regain some of that crispness. This way, you preserve the delicious textures and flavors of your original dish.

Variations to Try

Feel free to switch out the roasted cauliflower for other seasonal vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or sweet potatoes. Each will add its unique flavor and texture, so have fun experimenting based on what’s available or what you enjoy most.

For a protein boost, add cooked lentils or diced grilled chicken on top of the bowl. This not only enhances nutritional content but also makes the dish more filling, converting it into a hearty meal that's perfect for either lunch or dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice is healthier and more nutritious. Regular white rice will cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

→ Is tahini a necessary ingredient?

While tahini adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with sunflower seed butter or even a yogurt dressing for a different take.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly, thanks to the tahini and vegetables.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before enjoying.