Roasted Cauliflower with Greek Yogurt and Tahini Dressing

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent the cauliflower from sticking.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into even florets, making sure they’re not too large so that they cook evenly. You can also slice the cauliflower into thick steaks if you prefer.
3. Season the Cauliflower: In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, ground cumin, coriander, turmeric (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure the cauliflower is evenly coated with the spices and oil.
4. Roast the Cauliflower: Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender. Halfway through the roasting time, toss the florets to ensure they cook evenly and get a nice caramelization on all sides.

Step 2: Make the Greek Yogurt and Tahini Dressing

1. Combine the Ingredients: While the cauliflower is roasting, whisk together the Greek yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Adjust the Consistency: Add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, to thin the dressing to your desired consistency. It should be smooth and pourable but still thick enough to coat the cauliflower.
3. Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. If you like a little extra tang, you can add more lemon juice or a touch of vinegar.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Plate the Roasted Cauliflower: Once the cauliflower is done roasting, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving platter or individual plates.
2. Drizzle with Dressing: Generously drizzle the Greek yogurt and tahini dressing over the roasted cauliflower. You can either drizzle it directly or serve the dressing on the side for dipping.
3. Garnish: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve this roasted cauliflower with Greek yogurt and tahini dressing warm or at room temperature. It makes a great side dish for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as part of a vegetarian meal. You can also enjoy it on its own for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.

Tips for the Perfect Roasted Cauliflower

• Even Roasting: To ensure that the cauliflower roasts evenly, make sure the florets are cut into similar sizes. This way, they will cook at the same rate and get that perfect golden-brown color.
• Crispier Cauliflower: For extra crispiness, try flipping the cauliflower halfway through the roasting process. If you like a more caramelized exterior, you can also roast the cauliflower a little longer, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
• Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your preferences. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes can add a subtle smokiness or heat to the dish. You can also experiment with adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cauliflower before roasting.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can make the tahini dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify. Just give it a quick stir and add a little water to loosen it up before serving.

Health Benefits of This Dish

This roasted cauliflower with Greek yogurt and tahini dressing is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Cauliflower is a nutrient-dense vegetable, high in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins C and K. Greek yogurt provides a dose of protein and probiotics, which support digestive health. Tahini, made from sesame seeds, is rich in healthy fats, calcium, and iron. Together, these ingredients make for a dish that’s not only flavorful but also nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This roasted cauliflower with Greek yogurt and tahini dressing is a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The cauliflower’s natural sweetness and nuttiness are enhanced by the savory, creamy dressing, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and light. The tanginess of the Greek yogurt balances the richness of the tahini, making each bite feel indulgent without being overly heavy. It’s a great choice for a healthy side dish or a light vegetarian meal that everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion

Roasted cauliflower with Greek yogurt and tahini dressing is a delicious, simple, and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a flavorful side dish to complement your meal or a main course that’s light yet filling, this recipe is sure to impress. With its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and nutritious ingredients, it’s a dish that will become a staple in your cooking routine. Try it today and experience the perfect combination of roasted vegetables and creamy dressing!