Whole roasted cauliflower is a show-stopping plant-based dish that turns a humble vegetable into a stunning centerpiece. At Ahimsa Plant Kitchen, I love creating recipes that are both visually impressive and full of flavor. Roasting an entire cauliflower develops a golden, caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. The result is a dish that feels special, perfect for holiday meals, dinner parties, or any occasion where you want a plant-based main that wows.
What makes this preparation extraordinary is the combination of sauces. I like to serve the cauliflower with zhoug, a vibrant, herbaceous Middle Eastern chili sauce, and creamy tahini sauce. The zhoug adds a spicy, fragrant kick, while the tahini brings richness and smoothness. Together, they balance perfectly with the roasted flavors of the cauliflower. Drizzling the sauces over the whole vegetable before serving creates an elegant presentation that is both inviting and flavorful.
Preparing this dish requires a little attention, but the process is rewarding. Carefully roasting the cauliflower ensures it caramelizes evenly, while arranging the sauces and garnishes adds a personal, creative touch. I enjoy serving it as the centerpiece of a plant-based feast, accompanied by grains, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Each bite is a combination of crisp exterior, tender interior, and bold, zesty flavors from the sauces.
Whole roasted cauliflower is fully vegan, nutrient-rich, and a memorable addition to any menu. It celebrates the natural sweetness and texture of vegetables while elevating them with Middle Eastern-inspired flavors. Whether you are hosting guests or enjoying a special dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone with its flavor, presentation, and wholesome goodness.
Whole Roasted Cauliflower
Ingredients
- 1 cauliflower medium-sized
For the marinade:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp sumac
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/2 tsp pepper or to taste
For the tahini sauce:
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/2 cup water adjust as needed.
- 1 lemon juiced
- 1/4 tsp salt or to taste
For the zhoug sauce (spicy cilantro sauce):
- 1 bunch cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 jalapeños
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp cardamom
- 1/4 cup olive oil adjust as needed
- 1 lemon juiced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or to taste
For the sumac onions:
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 lemon juiced
- pinch of salt
- 1/2 tsp sumac
For serving:
- 1/2 cup parsley leaves chopped
- cracked pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F / 200°C. Remove any leaves from the cauliflower and trim the stem so it sits flat. In a small jar, mix together all the ingredients for the marinade. Shake well.
- Brush the mixture all over the cauliflower, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Place the cauliflower in a Dutch oven. Cover the bottom with water, which allows the cauliflower to steam.
- Roast in the oven with the lid on for around 40–45 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and golden brown. Remove the lid and cook for 5-10 more minutes without the lid until the top has gotten lightly crispy.
- Meanwhile, prepare the tahini dressing and the zhoug sauce by blending all the ingredients in a small blender. Massage the red onion with lemon juice, salt, and sumac. Let it sit until it is ready to serve.
- Drizzle the cauliflower with the tahini dressing and the zhough sauce. Garnish with parsley, the sumac onions, and cracked pepper. Let the cauliflower cool for a few minutes before slicing it into wedges. Enjoy!