Looking for a healthy, low-carb, and satisfying meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor? These Grain-Free Cauliflower Chickpea Bowls with Sunflower Tahini Dressing are the perfect solution! Packed with nutrient-rich roasted cauliflower rice and crispy chickpeas, this dish is a fantastic option for anyone following a grain-free, paleo, or low-carb diet. What truly sets this bowl apart is the nutty sunflower tahini dressing, which adds a rich, creamy texture and a delightful burst of flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a wholesome dinner, this dish is simple, nutritious, and incredibly delicious.

Ingredients:

For the Roasted Cauliflower Rice and Chickpeas:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, grated or pulsed into rice-sized pieces
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sunflower Tahini Dressing:

• ¼ cup sunflower seed butter (or sunflower tahini)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 2-3 tbsp water (to thin)

For Serving:

• 1 large avocado, sliced
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp sunflower seeds (for extra crunch)
• Lemon wedges (optional)

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Preparation:

Step 1: Roast the Chickpeas and Cauliflower Rice

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the cauliflower rice: Remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower. Using a box grater or a food processor, grate the cauliflower into rice-sized pieces.
3. On a large baking sheet, toss the cauliflower rice with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, toss the chickpeas with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread the chickpeas on one side of the baking sheet and the cauliflower rice on the other side, keeping them separate.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cauliflower rice is golden and the chickpeas are crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Sunflower Tahini Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sunflower seed butter, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, maple syrup (if using), minced garlic, cumin, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. It should be creamy but easy to drizzle.
3. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, lemon juice, or maple syrup to balance the flavors.

Step 3: Assemble the Cauliflower Chickpea Bowls

1. Divide the roasted cauliflower rice and chickpeas evenly among bowls.
2. Top with sliced avocado, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Drizzle generously with the sunflower tahini dressing.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle the bowls with fresh parsley or cilantro and sunflower seeds for added texture and flavor.
2. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh citrusy kick.
3. Enjoy the bowls warm or at room temperature!

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Cooking Notes:

• You can roast the chickpeas and cauliflower rice in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving or enjoy cold.
• The sunflower tahini dressing can be made up to a week ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a stir before using, as it may thicken slightly.
• If you’re not a fan of sunflower seed butter, feel free to use traditional tahini or almond butter for a similar nutty flavor.
• For extra flavor, you can toss the chickpeas with additional spices like turmeric, cayenne pepper, or garam masala depending on your taste preference.

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Serving Suggestions:

These Grain-Free Cauliflower Chickpea Bowls are a versatile, all-in-one meal, but they can easily be paired with other dishes or customized based on your preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Add roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for more variety.
• Serve alongside a light side salad with a lemon vinaigrette to add a fresh element to the meal.
• For added protein, top the bowl with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
• These bowls make a great meal-prep option, as all the ingredients store well in the fridge and can be assembled throughout the week.

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Tips:

• Crispy chickpeas: For extra-crispy chickpeas, make sure to pat them dry with a towel before tossing them in the oil and spices. This removes excess moisture and helps them roast to a crunchy finish.
• Sunflower seed butter: If you can’t find sunflower seed butter, you can easily make your own by processing raw or roasted sunflower seeds in a food processor until smooth.
• Meal prep tip: Prepare a large batch of roasted cauliflower rice and chickpeas at the start of the week to have a quick, nutritious base for lunches or dinners. Pair them with different dressings and toppings to keep things exciting.
• Flavor boost: For an added burst of flavor, toss the roasted cauliflower rice with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving.

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Prep Time:

• 15 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 25 minutes

Total Time:

• 40 minutes

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 12g
• Sodium: 320mg

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Conclusion:

These Grain-Free Cauliflower Chickpea Bowls with Sunflower Tahini Dressing are a delicious, low-carb option that’s packed with wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors. The roasted cauliflower rice and crispy chickpeas provide the perfect base for the rich, nutty sunflower tahini dressing, creating a well-balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re following a grain-free diet or just looking for a healthy weeknight meal, these bowls will become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, they’re easy to customize and prep ahead of time, making them a go-to option for busy weeks!

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