Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous

This Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous is a delightful medley of flavors and textures that will satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a potluck dish, this salad combines hearty roasted cauliflower and crispy chickpeas with the nutty richness of tahini dressing. It’s a versatile recipe that works wonderfully as a main course or a side dish, making it ideal for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The combination of spices and fresh herbs creates a vibrant taste experience.
• Easy to prepare: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this salad in about 40 minutes.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with vegetables and plant-based protein, it’s nourishing and satisfying.
• Vegan delight: This salad is entirely plant-based, catering to vegan diets without compromising on flavor.
• Great for meal prep: Leftovers keep well in the fridge, making it perfect for lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Medium saucepan
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting the cauliflower and chickpeas, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills or mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth tahini dressing by blending all components effectively.

Ingredients

This spiced cauliflower and pearl couscous salad with crispy chickpeas, fresh herbs, and creamy tahini dressing is a hearty, flavorful vegan dish.

For the Salad

• 1 medium cauliflower (cut into florets; approx. 1.5 lb / 680g)
• 15 oz chickpeas (1 can; drained and rinsed; approx. 400g)
• 3 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin; approx. 42g)
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 1/2 tsp ground coriander (spice, not cilantro)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt (approx. 6g)
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/4 tsp chili powder (optional; approx. 6g)
• 1 cup pearl couscous (dry; approx. 173g)
• 2 cups vegetable broth (approx. 475ml)
• 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 bunch fresh parsley (roughly chopped)
• 1/2 bunch fresh mint (roughly chopped)

For the Tahini Dressing

• 1/4 cup tahini (hulled; approx. 64g)
• 1 lime (juiced; yields ~2 tbsp / 30ml)
• 2 tbsp water (more if needed to thin dressing)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• salt (to taste)
• black pepper (to taste)

How to Make Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that perfect roast on the cauliflower and chickpeas.

Step 2: Roast the Cauliflower and Chickpeas

In a large mixing bowl:
– Toss together the cauliflower florets and drained chickpeas with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
– Add cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, chili powder (if using), and salt.
– Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
– Drizzle with the remaining olive oil.

Roast for 25–30 minutes:
– Flip halfway through cooking until the cauliflower is golden and tender while the chickpeas become crispy.

Step 3: Cook Pearl Couscous

In a medium saucepan:
– Bring vegetable broth to a boil.
– Add pearl couscous and cook according to package instructions (about 10 minutes).
– Drain any excess liquid if needed, fluff with a fork, then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Tahini Dressing

In a small bowl:
– Whisk together tahini, lime juice, water, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
– If too thick, add more water gradually until desired consistency is reached.

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large bowl:
– Combine cooked couscous with roasted cauliflower and chickpeas.
– Add red onion, parsley, and mint.
– Pour tahini dressing over the salad and toss gently until well coated.

Step 6: Serve Your Salad

Serve warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Enjoy this delicious Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous!

How to Serve Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous

Serving your Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous can elevate the dish and create a delightful experience. Here are a few creative ways to present this vibrant salad.

As a Main Course

• This salad works wonderfully as a substantial main dish, especially for lunch or dinner. The protein from chickpeas and pearl couscous makes it filling.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair the salad with a side of grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. This enhances the flavors and adds a smoky touch.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Serve the salad in large lettuce leaves for a fun twist. This makes it easy to eat and adds a refreshing crunch.

Topped with Avocado

• Add slices of creamy avocado on top of the salad for extra richness and healthy fats. Avocado complements the tahini dressing beautifully.

Alongside Pita Bread

• Offer warm pita bread on the side for dipping into the tahini dressing. It’s great for scooping up portions of the salad too!

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the salad before serving. This adds a delightful crunch and enhances the nutty flavor profile.

How to Perfect Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous

Perfecting your Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and mint brighten up the flavors. Make sure they are chopped just before serving for optimal freshness.
• Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on the cauliflower and chickpeas while roasting. They should be tender but not mushy, retaining some bite.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your tahini dressing before adding it to the salad. You might want more lime juice, salt, or pepper based on your preference.
• Let it cool slightly: Allowing the roasted vegetables to cool down before mixing them with couscous prevents wilting fresh herbs.
• Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness for up to three days.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust or add spices according to your taste preferences. A pinch of za’atar can add an exciting flavor twist!

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous

Pairing side dishes with your Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Hummus Platter: Serve assorted hummus varieties (like beet or roasted garlic) alongside pita chips and fresh veggies for dipping.
2. Grilled Halloumi Cheese: The salty richness of grilled halloumi complements the flavors of the salad perfectly.
3. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing tabbouleh made from bulgur wheat, tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley pairs well due to its bright flavors.
4. Savory Quinoa Pilaf: A quinoa pilaf with spices and dried fruits adds texture and sweetness that balances nicely.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide caramelized sweetness which contrasts beautifully against savory elements of the salad.
6. Spicy Roasted Eggplant: Eggplant seasoned with spices offers a smoky flavor that enhances the overall meal experience.
7. Cucumber Yogurt Sauce: A cool cucumber yogurt sauce can add creaminess and balance out spiciness if you opt for chilis in any other dish.
8. Mediterranean Flatbreads: Warm flatbreads brushed with olive oil and herbs make a perfect accompaniment for scooping up both salad and any dips!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the roasting step: Roasting enhances the flavors of the cauliflower and chickpeas. Don’t rush this step; it makes the dish more delicious.
• Not seasoning enough: Proper seasoning is key for flavor. Be generous with spices and salt to elevate the taste of your salad.
• Overcooking the couscous: Follow package instructions carefully. Overcooked couscous can become mushy, ruining the texture of your salad.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and mint add brightness and flavor. Don’t skip them; they are essential for a well-rounded salad.
• Making dressing too thick: If your tahini dressing is too thick, it won’t coat the salad well. Add water gradually until you reach a creamy consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before consuming.

Reheating Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between for even warming.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat on a pan, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous.

What can I substitute for tahini in this salad?

You can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as alternatives if you don’t have tahini on hand.

Can I add more vegetables to my Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous?

Absolutely! Feel free to add roasted bell peppers or kale to enhance nutrition and flavor.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free pearl couscous or substitute it with quinoa or rice, this salad remains gluten-free.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more chili powder or some diced jalapeños into your salad for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Tahini, Chickpeas & Pearl Couscous is not only hearty but also versatile. You can customize it by adding various vegetables or grains according to your preference. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful mix of flavors!