Roasted Cauliflower with Creamy Tahini Sauce

Roasted cauliflower with creamy tahini sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dish that highlights the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables. This simple recipe combines tender, caramelized cauliflower with a rich tahini sauce, making it an excellent side dish or a light main course.

Ingredients

• 1 head of cauliflower
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2-4 tablespoons water
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the cauliflower into florets and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water until smooth and creamy.
6. Drizzle the creamy tahini sauce over the roasted cauliflower.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 and has a total time of approximately 35-40 minutes, including 10 minutes of prep time.

Variations

• Spices: Add spices like cumin, paprika, or chili powder to the cauliflower before roasting for extra flavor.
• Add-ins: Consider tossing in other vegetables, such as chickpeas or bell peppers, to roast alongside the cauliflower.
• Sauce: Experiment with the tahini sauce by adding ingredients like maple syrup for sweetness or sriracha for heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
   Yes, but fresh cauliflower will yield a better texture and flavor.
2. What can I serve this with?
   This dish pairs well with grilled meats, rice, or as part of a mezze platter.
3. Is tahini gluten-free?
   Yes, tahini is naturally gluten-free.
4. Can I make the tahini sauce ahead of time?
   Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
5. How do I know when the cauliflower is done?
   It should be golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Can I substitute tahini with something else?
   You can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter, though the flavor will differ.
7. Is this dish vegan?
   Yes, both the roasted cauliflower and the tahini sauce are vegan-friendly.
8. Can I add nuts or seeds for crunch?
   Absolutely! Toasted sesame seeds or pine nuts make great toppings.
9. How do I prevent the cauliflower from burning?
   Keep an eye on it while roasting and stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
10. What other sauces would pair well?
    A yogurt-based sauce or a lemon vinaigrette can also complement roasted cauliflower.

Conclusion

Roasted cauliflower with creamy tahini sauce is a deliciously simple dish that brings together wholesome ingredients for a nutritious meal. Its rich flavors and textures make it a versatile addition to any table, whether as a side dish or a satisfying vegetarian option. Enjoy this delightful recipe as a testament to the beauty of vegetables!

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