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unusual recipes

Explore bold flavors and a new twist on vegetarian dining with this Spiced Cauliflower Steak drizzled in creamy Tahini Sauce and topped with vibrant Pomegranate Salsa. Perfectly spiced and roasted to tender perfection, this cauliflower steak is not only visually striking but also rich in earthy and savory flavors, complemented by a burst of sweetness from pomegranate. Ideal for an unusual recipes yet delicious main course or a stunning side dish, this recipe offers a creative way to make cauliflower the star of the meal.

Spiced Cauliflower Steak with Tahini Sauce and Pomegranate Salsa

Spiced Cauliflower Steak with Tahini Sauce and Pomegranate Salsa

Make cauliflower the centerpiece with this Spiced Cauliflower Steak topped with Tahini Sauce and Pomegranate Salsa. This unique dish combines roasted spices with creamy tahini and juicy pomegranate for a flavor-packed, visually impressive, and entirely vegetarian option that’s perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

For the cauliflower steak:

  • 1 large head of cauliflower (about 800g)
  • 30ml olive oil
  • 5g ground cumin
  • 5g smoked paprika
  • 5g turmeric
  • 3g salt
  • 2g black pepper

For the tahini sauce:

  • 60g tahini
  • 30ml lemon juice
  • 30ml water (adjust for desired consistency)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste

For the pomegranate salsa:

  • 100g pomegranate seeds
  • 50g red onion, finely chopped
  • 20g fresh parsley, chopped
  • 10ml olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F).
  • Prepare the cauliflower: Remove the leaves from the cauliflower and trim the stem. Slice the cauliflower into thick steaks (about 2.5 cm thick). You should get about 2-3 steaks from one head, with some florets breaking off.
  • Season the cauliflower: In a large bowl, mix olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Brush both sides of each cauliflower steak with the spice mixture.
  • Roast the cauliflower: Place the seasoned cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and tender.
  • Make the tahini sauce: While the cauliflower is roasting, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, minced garlic, and salt in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust water for desired consistency.
  • Prepare the pomegranate salsa: In a separate bowl, combine pomegranate seeds, red onion, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
  • Serve: Once the cauliflower steaks are done roasting, place them on serving plates. Drizzle with tahini sauce and top with pomegranate salsa.

Notes

Here are some creative variations for the Spiced Cauliflower Steak with Tahini Sauce and Pomegranate Salsa recipe:
  1. Harissa-Spiced Cauliflower Steaks
    • Replace the spice mix with 2 tablespoons of harissa paste for a smoky and spicy flavor.
    • Serve with a cooling yogurt sauce made from Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice and chopped mint.
  2. Curry Cauliflower Steaks
    • Season the cauliflower with curry powder (10g) and turmeric (5g) instead of the original spices.
    • Serve with a coconut yogurt sauce made by mixing coconut yogurt with lime juice and cilantro.
  3. Mediterranean Cauliflower Steaks
    • Use olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and garlic powder to marinate the cauliflower.
    • Top with a mixture of diced tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a fresh Mediterranean flair.
  4. BBQ Cauliflower Steaks
    • Brush the steaks with your favorite BBQ sauce before roasting.
    • Serve with a side of coleslaw for a classic BBQ pairing.
  5. Smoky Paprika Cauliflower Steaks
    • Use smoked paprika (10g) and garlic powder (5g) as the primary seasonings.
    • Drizzle with a chipotle aioli made from mayonnaise, chipotle in adobo, and lime juice.
  6. Lemon-Garlic Cauliflower Steaks
    • Marinate the steaks in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic (2 cloves), salt, and pepper.
    • Serve with a lemon-tahini dressing for added creaminess.
  7. Asian-Inspired Cauliflower Steaks
    • Brush the steaks with a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger before roasting.
    • Top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions after cooking.
  8. Cheesy Cauliflower Steaks
    • Sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese on top of the steaks during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
    • Serve with a creamy ranch dressing.
  9. Balsamic-Glazed Cauliflower Steaks
    • Drizzle balsamic glaze over the steaks before roasting for a sweet-tart flavor.
    • Garnish with fresh basil or arugula before serving.
  10. Chimichurri Cauliflower Steaks
    • Brush the steaks with olive oil and season them lightly before roasting.
    • Top with homemade chimichurri sauce made from parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, vinegar, and olive oil.
Keyword Spiced Cauliflower Steak with Tahini Sauce and Pomegranate Salsa, vegetarian steak
Nutrient Amount % Daily Value*
Calories 250 12%
Total Fat 18g 28%
Saturated Fat 3g 15%
Cholesterol 0mg 0%
Sodium 350mg 15%
Total Carbohydrates 22g 7%
Dietary Fiber 6g 24%
Sugars 4g
Protein 6g 12%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.