Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Creamy Tahini Dressing

Cauliflower is currently having a major renaissance, and this recipe highlights exactly why. When roasted, the sulfurous compounds (responsible for that unpleasant boiled smell) dissipate, replaced by deep, nutty, caramelized notes. The bitterness of the tahini and the acidity of the lemon perfectly balance the natural sweetness of the roasted vegetable. This is a cornerstone of modern Israeli cuisine.
🕒 Prep Time 15 mins
🍳 Cook Time 30 mins
Total Time 45 mins
🍽️ Servings 2 servings
🔥 Calories 340 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Middle Eastern

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Large Baking Sheet: Essential so the cauliflower florets don't touch, ensuring they roast rather than steam.
  • Whisk: To whip the tahini into a smooth, lump-free dressing.

Allergen Information

⚠️ Sesame

Instructions

1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the cauliflower into florets; slice larger ones in half.

Tip: The flat cut side provides more surface area to contact the hot pan, resulting in better caramelization.
2

Toss the cauliflower with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, and cumin. Spread evenly on the baking sheet.

Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan! Air needs to circulate around the florets so they roast instead of steam.
3

Roast for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the edges are dark brown.

Tip: Charring is desirable here; it adds a smoky depth of flavor.
4

Make the dressing: Whisk the tahini with the lemon juice, garlic, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Gradually whisk in the cold water until you reach a pourable, yogurt-like consistency.

Tip: Tahini tends to seize (stiffen) when lemon juice is added; the water will loosen it back up.
5

Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving platter and drizzle with the dressing.

Tip: Dress it while still warm so the flavors absorb better.
6

Garnish with fresh parsley and toasted sesame seeds.

Tip: The seeds add texture, while the parsley adds a fresh burst of color and flavor.

Recipe FAQ

The tahini seized up when I added water.
This is totally natural. When you add water to tahini, it first thickens and clumps. Keep adding water and whisking vigorously, and it will suddenly relax into a creamy emulsion.

Ingredients

  • 1 head (approx. 1 lb) Cauliflower
  • 3 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 pinch Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 0.5 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 2 tbsp Tahini Paste
  • 1 clove Garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp Cold Water
  • 1 bunch Fresh Parsley
  • 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds (toasted)