Mediterranean Roasted Cauliflower Couscous Bowl with Feta & Lemon Tahini
This Mediterranean Roasted Cauliflower Couscous Bowl is the kind of meal that feels comforting and fresh at the same time. Roasted cauliflower brings deep, caramelized flavor, while fluffy couscous keeps the bowl light and satisfying. Crumbled feta adds saltiness, and the lemon tahini dressing ties everything together with a creamy, tangy finish. It is a balanced, everyday dish you can enjoy for lunch or dinner, whether you are eating lighter, meal prepping, or simply craving Mediterranean flavors. This bowl is naturally vegetarian, filling without being heavy, and easy to customize based on what you have on hand.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: About 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Roasted Cauliflower
1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Couscous Bowl
1 cup couscous
1 cup hot vegetable broth or water
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cucumber, diced
¼ red onion, finely sliced
⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or mint
For the Lemon Tahini Dressing
3 tablespoons tahini
Juice of 1 lemon
1 small clove garlic, finely grated
2 to 3 tablespoons warm water
Salt, to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Place cauliflower florets on the tray, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Toss well to coat evenly, then spread in a single layer.
Roast for 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender with crisp edges.
While the cauliflower roasts, place couscous in a heatproof bowl.
Pour hot vegetable broth or water over the couscous, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes.
Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.
In a small bowl, whisk tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt until smooth, adding warm water gradually.
Assemble the bowl by layering couscous, roasted cauliflower, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
Finish with feta, fresh herbs, and a generous drizzle of lemon tahini dressing.
Tips
Cut cauliflower into similar sizes so it roasts evenly.
Do not overcrowd the baking tray or the cauliflower will steam.
Use hot liquid for couscous to ensure proper absorption.
Fluff couscous gently to keep it light and airy.
Taste tahini before using, as bitterness varies by brand.
Add water slowly to the dressing to control thickness.
Roast cauliflower until deeply golden for maximum flavor.
Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter dressing.
Let roasted cauliflower cool slightly before assembling.
Season each layer lightly rather than over-salting at the end.
Variations
Add chickpeas to the roasting tray for extra protein.
Replace couscous with quinoa for a gluten-free option.
Use roasted sweet potato instead of cauliflower.
Add olives for a briny Mediterranean touch.
Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or almonds for crunch.
Swap feta with grilled halloumi for a heartier bowl.
Add spinach or arugula for extra greens.
Mix za’atar into the cauliflower seasoning.
Add a spoon of hummus for extra creaminess.
Use orange juice instead of lemon for a milder dressing.
Q&A
Can I make this bowl ahead of time?
Yes, keep components separate and assemble before serving.
Is this dish good for weight management?
Yes, it is balanced, fiber-rich, and satisfying.
Can I serve it warm or cold?
It works well both ways.
What can replace tahini?
Greek yogurt or almond butter can work as alternatives.
Is couscous healthy?
It is light, quick-cooking, and pairs well with vegetables.
Can I make it vegan?
Skip feta or use a plant-based alternative.
How long does it keep in the fridge?
Up to 3 days when stored properly.
Can I add meat?
Grilled chicken or fish pairs nicely with this bowl.
Does tahini dressing thicken over time?
Yes, add a splash of water before serving.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and approachable.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 420–450
Protein: 13–15 g
Carbohydrates: 45–50 g
Fiber: 7–9 g
Fat: 20–22 g
Rich in calcium, vitamin C, and healthy fats
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Roasted Cauliflower Couscous Bowl with Feta & Lemon Tahini is proof that simple ingredients can create a deeply satisfying meal. It offers warmth from roasted vegetables, freshness from raw toppings, and richness from a creamy dressing without feeling heavy. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weekday lunch or a relaxed dinner, this bowl fits effortlessly into a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired routine. It is flexible, nourishing, and flavorful enough to return to again and again.