Roasted Cauliflower Lemon Tahini

Name: Roasted Cauliflower Lemon Tahini
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons tahini; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons water; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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I absolutely love roasted vegetables, and this Roasted Cauliflower Lemon Tahini dish has become one of my favorites! The combination of caramelized cauliflower with a tangy, creamy tahini sauce elevates the flavor profile to a whole new level. It’s the perfect side dish or even a light main course that never fails to impress. I've made this dish countless times for gatherings, and each time it disappears within minutes. Let's dive in and explore this vibrant and delicious recipe together!

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:34:47.317Z

When I first experimented with roasting cauliflower, I was blown away by how caramelization brought out its natural sweetness. Pairing it with a zesty lemon tahini sauce takes it to the next level, adding a delightful creaminess that complements the roasted flavor perfectly. I often play around with the seasoning, adding a touch more cumin or paprika depending on my mood.

This dish works wonderfully as a standalone meal, but I’ve also enjoyed it as a side at family dinners. The tahini sauce keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent dressing to have on hand for other salads or roasted veggies throughout the week!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The roasted cauliflower brings out a delicious nutty flavor.
The lemon tahini sauce adds brightness and creaminess.
It's versatile and can be served warm or cold.

The Importance of Roasting

Roasting is a transformative cooking technique, especially for vegetables like cauliflower. When roasted, the natural sugars caramelize, creating a sweet and nutty flavor profile that elevates the dish's overall taste. Make sure to use high heat—425°F (220°C) is ideal—as this not only helps the cauliflower brown beautifully but also keeps it tender inside. Stirring halfway through ensures even roasting and prevents any pieces from burning.

For best results, choose fresh cauliflower with tightly packed florets and sturdy green leaves. Aged or soft spots can compromise texture. If you're unsure about the doneness, look for golden brown edges that indicate caramelization has occurred. It’s this contrast of textures—crispy on the outside while tender on the inside—that makes roasted cauliflower so appealing.

Crafting the Perfect Tahini Sauce

The tahini sauce is where this dish gets its creamy, tangy finishing touch. Quality tahini is crucial; aim for a brand that uses only sesame seeds and salt. This ensures a pure, rich flavor without added oils or preservatives. When combining tahini with lemon juice and garlic, the flavor becomes vibrant and complex. Adjusting the water can help achieve your desired consistency, whether you prefer it thicker for drizzling or thinner for a dressing-like texture.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the tahini sauce! For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or some harissa. Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can also bring a refreshing twist. The brightness of the lemon enhances the earthiness of the tahini, creating a delightful balance that complements the roasted cauliflower beautifully.

Customizing and Serving Suggestions

This Roasted Cauliflower Lemon Tahini dish is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a side alongside grilled meats, or as part of a mezze platter featuring hummus and pita. If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding roasted chickpeas for extra protein or mixing in some roasted bell peppers for color and sweetness. Feel free to top it with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.

If you're preparing this dish ahead of time, the roasted cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just before serving, reheat it briefly in the oven to regain that roasted texture, and drizzle with fresh tahini sauce. This dish can also be served cold, making it a great option for meal prep or potlucks.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this delicious roasted cauliflower dish:

Ingredients

1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons tahini
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons water
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Roasted Cauliflower with Lemon Tahini:

Prepare the Cauliflower

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper until well coated.

Roast the Cauliflower

Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown, stirring halfway through.

Make the Tahini Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, and minced garlic until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed.

Serve

Once the cauliflower is roasted, transfer it to a serving platter. Drizzle with the tahini sauce and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes or sesame seeds before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of tahini or prefer a nut-free option, you can easily substitute with sunflower seed butter. It offers a similar creamy texture while contributing its own distinct flavor. Alternatively, Greek yogurt can be used to create a tangy, creamy sauce without the nut elements. Just remember to adjust the salt to avoid overpowering the dish.

Olive oil can also be swapped here; if you're looking for a different twist, avocado oil or even melted coconut oil can provide a unique flavor while maintaining that rich mouthfeel. For the spices, feel free to experiment with smoked paprika or even curry powder to add depth and complexity to the roasted cauliflower.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To keep roasted cauliflower at its best, store leftover pieces in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh for about three days. If you want to maintain the crispy texture during reheating, consider using the oven instead of the microwave. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the cauliflower on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes or until heated through and slightly crispy once again.

If you're interested in meal-prepping this dish, you can roast a large batch of cauliflower at once and portion it out for the week. Just prepare the tahini sauce fresh each time you serve it to keep that tangy flavor and creamy texture intact. This approach not only saves time but also ensures you have a delicious, healthy component ready to complement any meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! This tahini sauce works well with roasted carrots, broccoli, or even Brussels sprouts.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Is the tahini sauce vegan?

Yes, the tahini sauce is completely vegan and dairy-free, making it suitable for various diets.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can roast the cauliflower ahead of time, but it’s best to prepare the tahini sauce just before serving for optimal freshness.