WHOLE ROASTED CAULIFLOWER W/ TAHINI SAUCE

Whole roasted cauliflower with tahini sauce is a delightful dish that has gained popularity in recent years, especially among those who appreciate plant-based and Mediterranean cuisines. This dish is known for its rich flavors and elegant presentation.

History:
The exact origin of whole roasted cauliflower with tahini sauce is not well-documented, but it is believed to have roots in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Cauliflower has been a staple in these regions for centuries, and tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, is a common ingredient in many dishes. The fusion of these elements likely led to the creation of this flavorful and visually appealing dish.

Components:

1. Cauliflower: You will need a whole head of cauliflower for this recipe.
2. Olive Oil: Used for coating the cauliflower before roasting.
3. Spices: Common spices used include paprika, cumin, coriander, and salt.
4. Tahini Sauce: The sauce is made from tahini paste, lemon juice, garlic, and water. It adds creaminess and flavor to the dish.
5. Garnishes: Typically, chopped parsley, pomegranate seeds, and toasted pine nuts are used for garnishing.

Steps to Prepare Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Sauce:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Cauliflower:

   • Remove the outer leaves from the cauliflower, leaving the core intact.
   • Trim the stem so that the cauliflower sits flat.
   • Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet.

3. Season the Cauliflower:

   • Drizzle olive oil over the cauliflower, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
   • Sprinkle the cauliflower with your choice of spices. A common mix includes paprika, cumin, coriander, and salt. You can adjust the seasoning to your taste.

4. Roast the Cauliflower:

   • Place the baking sheet with the cauliflower in the preheated oven.
   • Roast for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour or until the cauliflower is tender and golden brown. You can use a knife to check for tenderness.

5. Prepare the Tahini Sauce:

   • While the cauliflower is roasting, make the tahini sauce.
   • In a bowl, combine tahini paste, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, and water. Whisk until you achieve a smooth consistency. Adjust the thickness with more water if needed.

6. Serve:

   • Once the cauliflower is done, transfer it to a serving platter.
   • Drizzle the tahini sauce generously over the roasted cauliflower.
   • Garnish with chopped parsley, pomegranate seeds, and toasted pine nuts.

7. Enjoy:

   • Serve the whole roasted cauliflower with tahini sauce immediately while it’s still warm. It’s a visually stunning and delicious dish that can be a centerpiece at any meal.

Time Needed:

• Preparing and roasting the cauliflower: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
• Making the tahini sauce and assembling: About 10-15 minutes.

The total time required will be around 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on your oven and the size of the cauliflower.

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and health information for Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Sauce:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):

• Calories: 200-250 calories per serving
• Protein: 7-10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 12-15 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 4-6 grams
• Sugars: 3-4 grams
• Fat: 15-18 grams
• Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
• Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
• Sodium: 200-300 milligrams
• Potassium: 500-600 milligrams
• Vitamin C: 70-90% of the daily recommended intake
• Calcium: 6-8% of the daily recommended intake
• Iron: 10-15% of the daily recommended intake

Health Information:

1. Low in Calories: Whole roasted cauliflower with tahini sauce is a relatively low-calorie dish, making it suitable for those watching their calorie intake.

2. Good Source of Fiber: The cauliflower itself is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps you feel full.

3. Healthy Fats: The tahini sauce provides healthy fats, primarily from sesame seeds. These fats are heart-healthy and can help with satiety.

4. Protein: The dish contains a moderate amount of protein, which is important for muscle health and overall body function.

5. Vitamin C: Cauliflower is rich in vitamin C, which is essential for the immune system, skin health, and wound healing.

6. Minerals: It provides essential minerals like potassium, which is important for regulating blood pressure, and calcium, which is crucial for bone health.

7. Low in Cholesterol and Saturated Fat: This dish is naturally low in cholesterol and saturated fat, making it a heart-healthy option.

8. Vegan and Gluten-Free: Whole roasted cauliflower with tahini sauce is suitable for vegans and those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

9. Antioxidants: The use of spices, especially paprika and coriander, provides antioxidants that may have various health benefits, including reducing inflammation.

10. Balanced Meal: When served with a variety of other vegetables and whole grains, this dish can be part of a balanced and nutritious meal.

It’s important to note that the specific nutrition content may vary based on factors such as the size of the cauliflower, the amount of tahini sauce used, and any additional ingredients or seasonings. To get the most accurate nutritional information, you can use a nutrition calculator or consult the packaging of the specific products you use to prepare this dish.