Introduction
Enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal with roasted cauliflower and homemade hummus. This vibrant dish is not only full of flavor but also packed with nutrients, making it a great option for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or incorporating it into a larger spread, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Roasted Cauliflower:
– 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon oregano
– A pinch of black pepper
Hummus:
– 2 (14-ounce) cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
– Juice of two lemons (adjust to taste)
For Serving:
– Chopped fresh tomato
– Minced fresh parsley
– Soft-boiled egg or pulled rotisserie chicken
– Warm pita bread
– Harissa
– Olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
50 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
This delightful dish combines the earthy flavors of roasted cauliflower with the creamy smoothness of hummus, perfect for any gathering or a cozy meal at home. The fresh toppings like tomatoes and parsley add brightness, while the optional proteins provide heartiness. Don’t forget to serve it all with warm pita bread for a satisfying experience!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Roast the Cauliflower
– Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
– Place the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
– Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and toss with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon each of paprika, cumin, and oregano, and a pinch of black pepper until evenly coated.
– Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly browned.
Prepare the Hummus
– *Optional:* For an extra smooth texture, peel the skins off the chickpeas. This step is time-consuming but results in a creamier hummus.
– In a blender or food processor, combine the chickpeas, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup water, 2 cloves garlic, 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, and the juice of two lemons.
– Blend until very smooth. Adjust lemon juice and salt to taste.
Assemble the Bowls
– Spread a generous amount of hummus onto each plate or bowl.
– Top with the roasted cauliflower.
– Add chopped fresh tomatoes and minced parsley.
– If desired, include a soft-boiled egg or pulled rotisserie chicken.
– Drizzle with olive oil and, if desired, harissa.
– Season with additional kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
– Serve with warm pita bread.
Notes
Roasting Cauliflower
– Ensure the cauliflower is evenly coated with oil and spices for optimal flavor and browning.
Hummus Texture
– The texture of the hummus can be adjusted by the amount of water added; less water yields a thicker hummus.
Serving Suggestions
– Customize the bowls with your choice of protein and additional toppings for variety.
Storing Leftovers
– Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Roasted cauliflower can also be stored in the fridge and reheated as needed.
Cook techniques
Roasting Cauliflower
To roast cauliflower, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Cut the cauliflower into florets, toss them in olive oil, salt, and spices until evenly coated, and spread them on a lined baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly browned.
Preparing Hummus
For a smoother hummus, consider peeling the skins off chickpeas, although this is optional. Blend the rinsed chickpeas with olive oil, water, garlic, salt, and lemon juice until very smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Assembling the Bowls
Spread hummus on your serving plates or bowls as a base. Layer with roasted cauliflower, chopped tomatoes, minced parsley, and optional proteins like a soft-boiled egg or pulled rotisserie chicken. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil, harissa, and additional seasoning to taste. Serve with warm pita bread.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cauliflower for roasting?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before roasting to achieve the best texture.
How do I store leftover hummus?
Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can drizzle a bit of olive oil on top to help preserve its freshness.
What can I substitute for chickpeas in hummus?
You can substitute chickpeas with other beans like white beans or black beans for a different flavor profile, but the texture will vary.
Can I make the roasted cauliflower ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the cauliflower ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.
Is there a vegan option for the protein?
Yes, you can add additional legumes, grilled vegetables, or avocado to increase protein while keeping the dish vegan.
Conclusion
Roasted cauliflower and hummus create a delightful combination that is not only flavorful but also nutritious. This dish can be enjoyed as a light meal or served as an impressive appetizer. The variety of textures and the richness of the spices ensure that every bite is satisfying. Experiment with additional toppings and flavors to make it your own.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Roasted Chickpeas
Try adding roasted chickpeas seasoned with cayenne pepper for an extra kick alongside your hummus and roasted cauliflower.
Quinoa Salad
Serve the roasted cauliflower and hummus over a bed of quinoa mixed with cucumber, red onion, and a lemon vinaigrette for a filling meal.
Stuffed Pita Pockets
Fill warm pita bread with hummus, roasted cauliflower, fresh spinach, and sliced radishes for a fresh and tasty pocket meal.
Grilled Vegetables
Accompany the dish with a medley of grilled seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant seasoned with Mediterranean herbs.
Herbed Yogurt Sauce
Add a creamy herbed yogurt sauce on the side made with Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, and garlic to complement the flavors of the dish.
