Roasted Cauliflower with Spicy Tahini Sauce
Roasted Cauliflower with Spicy Tahini Sauce is a savory side with a hint of sweetness from agave and a spicy kick from harissa. The creamy tahini sauce is perfect for drizzling or dipping, making this vegan and gluten-free dish both flavorful and easy to make.
Equipment
- Baking sheet or roasting pan
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets (white, purple, or orange)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Cilantro, for garnish
Spicy Tahini Dressing
- ¼ cup tahini
- 1 tbsp harissa or sriracha (or spicy hot sauce of choice, adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup (agave or honey)
- 1 garlic clove (grated or finely minced)
- A pinch or two of salt
- Water, as needed (to thin sauce to desired consistency)
Instructions
- Prep the Cauliflower: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut 1 large head of cauliflower into florets and spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
- Season and Roast: Drizzle the cauliflower with 2 tbsp olive oil and sprinkle with ½ tsp paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste. Toss well to coat evenly. Roast for 15–25 minutes, depending on floret size, flipping halfway through, until tender and golden at the edges.
- Prepare the Spicy Tahini Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup tahini, 1 tbsp harissa, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 grated or finely minced garlic clove, and a pinch or two of salt. Gradually whisk in water, 1 tbsp at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Assemble and Serve: Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving dish and drizzle generously with the spicy tahini sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Notes
Storage
Store leftover roasted cauliflower and tahini sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the cauliflower in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
Milder Option
For less heat, reduce the amount of harissa or sriracha, or swap in smoked paprika for a more subtle warmth. A classic lemon-tahini dressing also works well if you prefer a non-spicy option.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 servingCalories: 310kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 9gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gSodium: 430mgPotassium: 620mgFiber: 7gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 110IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 140mgIron: 3.1mg
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