Whole Roasted Cauliflower Tahini Drizzle (Printable version)
A tender, golden-roasted cauliflower dish, elegantly finished with a creamy, zesty tahini-lemon sauce. A stunning plant-based centerpiece.
# Ingredient list:
→ Cauliflower
01 - 1 large head cauliflower
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
04 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Tahini Lemon Drizzle
08 - 1/3 cup tahini
09 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
10 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave
11 - 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
12 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
13 - 3–5 tablespoons cold water (to thin)
→ Garnish
14 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
15 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
16 - Lemon wedges (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
02 - Remove the outer leaves from the cauliflower and trim the stem, ensuring the head remains intact. Rinse the cauliflower thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels.
03 - In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a uniform seasoning paste.
04 - Place the prepared cauliflower on the lined baking sheet. Using a pastry brush or your hands, thoroughly coat the entire surface of the cauliflower with the seasoning mixture, ensuring even coverage.
05 - Roast the cauliflower in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes, or until it is golden brown, tender, and easily pierced with a knife. If the cauliflower begins to brown too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
06 - While the cauliflower roasts, whisk together the tahini, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup or agave, finely grated garlic clove, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl. Begin by adding 3 tablespoons of cold water, then gradually add more, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce achieves a smooth, pourable consistency.
07 - Carefully transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving platter. Generously drizzle the prepared tahini lemon sauce over the entire head of cauliflower.
08 - Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley and toasted sesame seeds over the drizzled cauliflower. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side for an optional burst of freshness.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- It's surprisingly easy to achieve a stunning centerpiece that tastes incredible.
- The warm, spiced cauliflower with the bright, creamy drizzle is a flavor combination you'll crave.
02 -
- Don't be afraid to really massage that spice rub into the cauliflower; it's the secret to deep flavor.
- The consistency of your tahini drizzle is crucial; it should be thick enough to cling but thin enough to flow.
03 -
- For an extra layer of flavor, try steaming the cauliflower for 5-10 minutes before roasting — it ensures a super tender interior while still allowing for good caramelization.
- If your tahini is very thick, warm it slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before mixing the drizzle; it will blend much more smoothly.