Weeknights, am I right? It feels like a constant race against the clock to get a nourishing meal on the table. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are quick, easy, and, most importantly, bursting with flavor. This Moroccan cauliflower with tahini-honey is a lifesaver in my house, and I know it will be for you too. Ready in about 45 minutes, this dish is a simple way to enjoy a healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Table of contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Moroccan Cauliflower with Tahini-Honey
I know you’re busy, so I wouldn’t waste your time with just any recipe. This Moroccan cauliflower is special, and here’s why:
- Quick to make: From fridge to table in under an hour.
- Packed with nutrients and satisfyingly delicious.
- Healthy and delicious: Packed with nutrients and satisfyingly delicious.
- Easy cleanup: One pan and a bowl, that’s it!
What Makes This Moroccan Cauliflower “Moroccan?”
Moroccan cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, influenced by Berber, Arab, and French traditions. It’s known for its bold use of spices like cumin, coriander, ginger, and, of course, harissa. These spices create a warm, aromatic flavor profile that’s both comforting and exotic. I fell in love with Moroccan food when I visited Marrakech years ago; the bustling markets filled with fragrant spices were so inspiring. This cauliflower recipe captures a bit of that magic, bringing the warmth and flavor of Morocco to your kitchen.
Decoding Harissa
Harissa is more than just a chili paste; it’s the heart and soul of Moroccan cooking. It’s a fiery blend of chili peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices like cumin, coriander, and caraway. You can find harissa in different heat levels, from mild to intensely spicy. I prefer using a mild harissa, like the Mina brand, which adds a lovely depth of flavor without being overpowering. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even make harissa from scratch, but for a quick weeknight meal, store-bought is perfectly fine.
The Star Ingredients
This recipe shines because of its simple, yet powerful ingredients. Cauliflower is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Tahini, made from sesame seeds, is a great source of healthy fats and adds a creamy, nutty flavor. Honey not only provides a touch of sweetness but also has antibacterial properties. Together, these ingredients create a dish that’s both good for you and incredibly delicious.
Sensational Moroccan Cauliflower with Tahini-Honey
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- In a large bowl, combine 2 Tbsp. of the oil, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 2 Tbsp. harissa; mix well. Add cauliflower and toss to evenly coat. Spread on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 35 minutes, tossing once halfway through, until tender.Remove from oven and toss with remaining 2 Tbsp. harissa; bake for another 5 to 7 minutes, until caramelized and charred in some spots.
- Meanwhile, prepare Tahini-Honey by combining remaining 2 Tbsp. olive oil, tahini, honey, 1 Tbsp. lemon juice, remaining 1/4 tsp. salt, and black pepper; stir with a whisk. Whisk in 1 Tbsp. water to thin out to desired consistency.
- Transfer roasted cauliflower to a bowl or serving platter. Drizzle with tahini-honey, and squeeze remaining 1 Tbsp. lemon juice overtop. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired
Notes
Ingredients for Moroccan Cauliflower with Tahini-Honey
Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:
- 4 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 3/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided
- 4 Tbsp. mild harissa, divided (such as Mina brand)
- 1 large head cauliflower, trimmed and sliced into florets ((about 7 to 8 cups))
- 2 Tbsp. tahini
- 1 Tbsp. honey
- 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice, divided
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Moroccan Cauliflower with Tahini-Honey
Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for delicious Moroccan cauliflower:
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- In a large bowl, combine 2 Tbsp. of the oil, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 2 Tbsp. harissa; mix well. Add cauliflower and toss to evenly coat. Spread on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 35 minutes, tossing once halfway through, until tender.Remove from oven and toss with remaining 2 Tbsp. harissa; bake for another 5 to 7 minutes, until caramelized and charred in some spots.
- Meanwhile, prepare Tahini-Honey by combining remaining 2 Tbsp. olive oil, tahini, honey, 1 Tbsp. lemon juice, remaining 1/4 tsp. salt, and black pepper; stir with a whisk. Whisk in 1 Tbsp. water to thin out to desired consistency.
- Transfer roasted cauliflower to a bowl or serving platter. Drizzle with tahini-honey, and squeeze remaining 1 Tbsp. lemon juice overtop. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired
Tips for Perfect Moroccan Cauliflower with Tahini-Honey
Want to take your cauliflower game to the next level? Here are a few tips:
- Cut the cauliflower florets evenly: This ensures that they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the cauliflower space to roast and caramelize, rather than steam.
- Roast until slightly charred: This adds a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
We all make mistakes in the kitchen; here’s how to avoid some common ones with this recipe:
- Undercooked or burnt cauliflower: Keep an eye on the cauliflower while it roasts, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Tahini sauce being too thick: Add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Dish being too spicy (or not spicy enough): Adjust the amount of harissa to your liking.
Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations to try:
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Spicy version | Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat. |
| Smoked paprika | Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. |
| Add other veggies | Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for a heartier dish. |
Serving Suggestions: What to Serve with Moroccan Cauliflower?
This Moroccan cauliflower is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of dishes:
- Moroccan spiced chicken
- Lamb tagine
- Chickpea tagine
- Serve over couscous
Make-Ahead Instructions
Want to get a head start? You can trim the cauliflower florets a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also make the tahini-honey sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature before drizzling over the roasted cauliflower.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Store leftover Moroccan cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Moroccan cauliflower made of?
It’s made with cauliflower, harissa, olive oil, and a tahini-honey sauce.
What is tahini made of?
Tahini is made from ground sesame seeds.
What does tahini go well with?
Tahini goes well with roasted vegetables, falafel, hummus, and salads.
How long does tahini last in the fridge?
Tahini can last for several months in the fridge, as long as it’s stored properly in an airtight container.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy this Moroccan cauliflower with tahini-honey as much as I do! It’s a simple, flavorful way to add some excitement to your weeknight meals. I can’t wait to see what you think. Please leave a comment below with any questions or share your own variations. Happy cooking!
