Vegetarian Christmas Main Dishes

A Healthy and Bold Holiday Centerpiece: Whole-Roasted Cauliflower with Spiced Tahini Sauce

2. Meal Prep and Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Grams per Serving: Approx. 200 grams

Ingredients Checklist

For the Cauliflower







For the Spiced Tahini Sauce






4. Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. Remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower, keeping the head intact. Rinse and pat dry.
  3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
  4. Rub the cauliflower generously with the spice mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated.
  5. Place the cauliflower on the prepared baking tray and roast for 40-45 minutes, or until tender and golden brown. Check doneness with a knife.
  6. While the cauliflower roasts, prepare the tahini sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, ground cumin, and water until smooth. Adjust seasoning and consistency as needed.
  7. Remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven, drizzle with the tahini sauce, and serve immediately.

5. Why This Recipe Works

This whole-roasted cauliflower is a simple yet impressive dish that combines bold flavors with minimal effort. The spiced coating provides a smoky, savory crust, while the creamy tahini sauce adds richness and tang. Perfect as a holiday centerpiece or a healthy weeknight dinner option.


6. Healthy Aspect

This recipe is nutrient-rich, featuring cauliflower as a low-calorie, high-fiber vegetable packed with vitamins C and K. The tahini sauce offers healthy fats and plant-based protein, while the spices provide antioxidants and enhance flavor without added sodium or sugar.

Nutritional Information Table
Nutritional Information – Per 100g
CaloriesProtein (g)Carbohydrates (g)Fiber (g)Sugars (g)Fat (g)Saturated Fat (g)
953.27.83.62.36.40.9