Roasted Cauliflower Bowl with Tzatziki & Crispy Lentils
My crispy lentil obsession continues! And they’re the perfect nutrient-dense topping for this Roasted Cauliflower Bowl with Tzatziki & Crispy Lentils. This beautiful bowl is packed with flavor and nutrition, boasting 30 g of protein, 11 mg of iron, and 23 g of fiber per serving. And, of course, it’s loaded with antioxidants—something you’ve probably guessed from the vibrant colors!
The roasted cauliflower, sweet beetroot, crispy lentils, and creamy dairy-free tzatziki come together perfectly to create a satisfying, well-balanced meal. Plus, it’s super easy to make, with the oven doing most of the work!
Why I Love This Recipe (as a Nutritionist)
- High-Protein: With 30 g of protein per serving, this bowl is a fantastic plant-based option to support your daily protein needs.
- Iron-Rich: Packed with 11 mg of iron, combined with garlic and vitamin C, to enhance the absorption rate.
- High-Fiber: With 23 g of fiber and over 8 unique plants, this meal is a feast for our microbiome! And keeps you full for longer.
- Vitamin C Boost: Provides 138 mg of vitamin C, which aids in iron absorption and supports immune health.
- Flavorful and Nourishing: The combination of roasted cauliflower, crispy lentils, and creamy tzatziki creates a balanced and satisfying meal.
Ingredient Notes
- Cauliflower: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, cauliflower roasts beautifully with spices like turmeric and cumin.
- Brown Lentils: Lentils are rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron and folate, supporting muscle health, digestion, and energy levels. Their low glycemic index helps regulate blood sugar, while their high fiber content promotes heart health and fullness.
They get crispy in the oven, adding texture to the dish. You can swap them for black lentils or chickpeas if preferred. - Beetroot: Adds natural sweetness and color. Beetroots contain nitrates, which are converted into nitric oxide in the body, which helps relax and widen blood vessels, improving circulation and lowering blood pressure.
- Dairy-Free Yogurt: Soy yogurt provides a creamy base for the tzatziki. If unavailable, any dairy-free yogurt will work, but keep in mind it might lower the protein intake.
- Pistachios: These nuts add crunch and healthy fats. You can substitute with pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.
How to Make This Recipe (Summary)
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and preparing your spice mix. Coat the cauliflower florets with olive oil and spices, and roast them alongside beetroot cubes for about 30 minutes. Bake the lentils separately until crispy, rotating the tray halfway through for even cooking.
Prepare the tzatziki by grating cucumber, squeezing out the excess water, and mixing it with dairy-free yogurt, dill, garlic, and lemon juice.
Assemble the bowl with layers of tzatziki, roasted vegetables, crispy lentils, and pistachios. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, and serve with a handful of greens like arugula or mixed salad. View recipe card below for detailed instructions.
Variations and Tips
- Spice Swap: Use a pre-made spice blend like ras el hanout for a quick aromatic twist.
- Nut-Free Option: Swap pistachios for toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
- Add More Greens: Mix in baby spinach, kale, or mixed leaf salad for extra nutrients and a touch of freshness.
- Sweeten the Yogurt: If your yogurt is tart, add 1 tsp of maple syrup to balance the flavors.
- Cucumber juice: don’t waste it! It makes the perfect addition to your next mocktail, I love it with some sparkling or tonic water, fresh grapefruit, and rosemary.
- If you like this recipe, you’ll also love our Mediterranean Roasted Potato Tzatziki Bowl, Crispy Lentils & Potato Bowl, or High-Protein Beetroot Medi Bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Cauliflower Bowl
- High-protein
- Iron-rich
- Easy-to-make
- Flavor-packed
- Plant-based
