Save to Pinterest Thick slices of cauliflower are brushed with a cumin and smoked paprika marinade, then oven-roasted until golden and tender. A smooth tahini sauce enriched with fresh lemon juice and garlic is drizzled generously over the warm cauliflower steaks. Optional garnishes like toasted pine nuts, pomegranate seeds, and parsley add texture and freshness, creating a satisfying plant-based main or side dish. This dish combines simple ingredients and flavors for a wholesome, Middle Eastern-inspired result that’s both vibrant and nutritious.
Discovering roasted cauliflower steaks with tahini was like uncovering a hidden gem in my plant-based cooking journey. The way the cauliflower transforms into golden, tender slices bathed in a creamy lemony sauce made me fall in love instantly.
I still remember the first time unexpected guests arrived and these cauliflower steaks saved the day—they looked restaurant-worthy but were effortless to make, earning me plenty of compliments.
Ingredients
- Cauliflower: I choose large heads for thick steaks that roast evenly and hold up well under the sauce
- Olive oil and spices: The cumin and smoked paprika add warmth and depth that elevates the flavor beyond simple roasted veggies
- Tahini sauce: Using fresh lemon juice and gradually adding water ensures a smooth, pourable texture that brightens the dish
- Garnish: Parsley, toasted nuts, and pomegranate seeds add a fresh, crunchy contrast that makes each bite exciting
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven and line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Gather the spices and tahini sauce ingredients—you'll appreciate having everything at hand.
- Prep Your Steaks:
- Trim the cauliflower, slicing into thick 1-inch steaks. Don't toss those loose florets—they're perfect for salads or roasting later. The aroma of fresh cauliflower always hints at the comfort to come.
- Marinate and Roast:
- Brush both sides of each steak generously with the spiced olive oil mixture. Roast until golden and tender, turning once to get those beautifully caramelized edges and that irresistible roasted smell filling your kitchen.
- Whisk the Sauce:
- Blend tahini with garlic and lemon juice, adding water slowly. The smooth, creamy sauce balances the smoky cauliflower perfectly, making your kitchen smell fresh and inviting.
- Plate and Garnish:
- Arrange the steaks on a platter, drizzle with tahini sauce, and sprinkle with parsley, nuts, and pomegranate seeds. The pop of color and texture makes serving feel like a celebration.
Save to Pinterest This dish quickly became a comfort food for family gatherings—a warm embrace on a plate that brings everyone together through its flavors and memories.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
I love pairing these steaks with a fluffy millet salad or warm quinoa, which soak up the tahini sauce beautifully and create a balanced meal full of textures.
Keeping It Fresh
Leftover cauliflower steaks are fantastic cold or lightly reheated; adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving refreshes the flavors instantly.
A Time This Recipe Saved the Day
Once, when last-minute guests showed up, I quickly roasted these cauliflower steaks, and everyone raved about how impressive yet effortless they tasted.
- Don't forget to toast your nuts for extra crunch and aroma
- For a nut-free twist, swap pine nuts with sunflower seeds without losing that satisfying texture
- Adding a pinch of sumac right before serving can bring an exciting tang that wakes up your palate
Save to Pinterest Thanks for hanging out in the kitchen with me! I hope this recipe becomes one of your favorites to share and remake over and over.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I slice cauliflower steaks evenly?
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Remove the outer leaves and trim the stem while keeping the core intact. Slice the cauliflower into 1-inch-thick pieces, ensuring they hold together as steaks.
- → What spices enhance the flavor before roasting?
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A marinade of olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper adds a warm, smoky flavor to the cauliflower.
- → How can I adjust the consistency of the tahini sauce?
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Whisk tahini with lemon juice and garlic, then gradually add water to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency that coats the cauliflower nicely.
- → What are good garnish options?
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Chopped parsley, toasted pine nuts or almonds, and pomegranate seeds provide color, crunch, and freshness to the dish.
- → Can this dish be served as a side or main?
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Yes, the hearty cauliflower steaks work well as a plant-based main course or a flavorful side alongside grains or salad.
