Spicy Roasted Cauliflower Bowl (Printable)

Spicy roasted cauliflower with chili oil, colorful vegetables, avocado and toasted sesame over brown rice or quinoa.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Roasted Cauliflower

01 - 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
02 - 3 tablespoons chili oil
03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
04 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Veggie Bowl Base

07 - 2 cups cooked brown rice or cooked quinoa
08 - 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
09 - 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
10 - 1 cup shredded carrots
11 - 1 cup steamed shelled edamame
12 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced

→ Toppings

13 - 3 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
14 - 1 avocado, sliced
15 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
16 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
17 - Lime wedges

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cauliflower florets with chili oil, olive oil, smoked paprika, sea salt, and ground black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
03 - Spread seasoned cauliflower evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway, until florets are golden and crisp at the edges.
04 - If not cooked in advance, prepare brown rice or quinoa according to package directions.
05 - Divide cooked rice or quinoa among four bowls. Top each with equal portions of roasted cauliflower, bell pepper, purple cabbage, carrots, edamame, and scallions.
06 - Garnish each bowl with avocado slices, toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro if desired, and a drizzle of soy sauce or tamari. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • You can customize the heat and toppings like a secret handshake just between us.
  • Each ingredient brings not just flavor but a little happy contrast in every bite.
02 -
  • I once forgot to stir the cauliflower halfway and ended up with unevenly charred patches—always flip at least once.
  • Letting the chili oil sit too long separates the flavors, so give it a good swirl each time you use it.
03 -
  • Toasted the sesame seeds just right and their nutty aroma made everything shine.
  • Parchment paper on your baking sheet prevents mess and guarantees easier cleanup.