16 Mediterranean Cauliflower Recipes For Every Occasion

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Cauliflower takes on a whole new life in Mediterranean cooking, where simple ingredients and bold flavors come together effortlessly.

Whether you’re craving something light and fresh or warm and comforting, these Mediterranean cauliflower dishes offer plenty of creative ways to make cauliflower the star of your meal.

Cauliflower Shawarma with Lemon Tahini Sauce

Source: panningtheglobe.com

This Cauliflower Shawarma is a flavorful, vegetarian twist on the traditional Middle Eastern street food.

Cauliflower steaks are coated in a spiced butter blend of cumin, cinnamon, and sumac, then grilled or roasted until golden and slightly charred.

Finished with a creamy lemon tahini sauce, toasted pine nuts, and bursts of pomegranate seeds, this dish is rich in texture and taste.

Perfect for serving in wraps, bowls, or as a standout side, it’s a satisfying plant-based meal that’s as bold as it is delicious.

Kounoupidi me Patates Kapamas (Braised Cauliflower with Potatoes)

Source: kopiaste.org

This traditional Greek stew brings together tender cauliflower and golden potatoes, slowly simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with cinnamon, garlic, and red wine.

The cauliflower and potatoes are first lightly fried in olive oil to deepen their flavor, then stewed until perfectly soft.

Finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and served with crusty bread and feta, this comforting, vegan-friendly dish is both hearty and flavorful—perfect as a main course or a satisfying side.

Cauliflower Risotto with Caramelized Pears, Blue Cheese, and Walnuts

Source: happykitchen.rocks

This cauliflower risotto offers a creative, gluten-free twist on the traditional dish. Creamy cauliflower rice replaces Arborio rice, absorbing the rich flavors of sautéed garlic, shallots, and white wine.

Caramelized honey-glazed pears add natural sweetness, while blue cheese melts into the risotto, delivering a bold, savory note. Toasted walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, and a sprinkle of parsley finishes the dish with freshness.

Ready in just 30 minutes, this risotto balances indulgent flavors with wholesome ingredients for a comforting, yet elevated vegetarian meal.

Sautéed Cauliflower with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil

Source: theveganatlas.com

This simple Mediterranean-inspired dish combines tender, golden-brown cauliflower with the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil.

The cauliflower is first steamed until tender-crisp, then sautéed in olive oil until slightly caramelized.

Sun-dried tomatoes add a rich, tangy depth, while fresh basil brightens the dish. It’s a versatile side that pairs beautifully with pasta, grains, or roasted vegetables.

For extra flavor, use the oil from oil-cured sun-dried tomatoes. Quick, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes!

Cauliflower Tomato Pasta with Sausage

Source: therusticfoodie.com

This hearty Italian-inspired dish brings together penne pasta, savory chicken sausage, and tender cauliflower florets in a flavorful tomato sauce.

Garlic and shallots add depth, while Parmesan cheese gives it a creamy finish. Fresh basil or parsley brightens the dish, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.

Ideal for those looking for a filling yet wholesome dinner option.

Cauliflower Fennel Soup

Source: gardeninthekitchen.com

This Cauliflower Fennel Soup is a smooth, comforting dish that’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, keto-friendly, and vegan.

Made with sautéed shallots, garlic, fennel, and cauliflower simmered in vegetable broth, it’s then blended into a velvety, bisque-like soup.

The subtle sweetness of fennel pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of cauliflower, creating a cozy and nourishing meal.

Perfect for a light appetizer or side dish, it can be garnished with toasted mushro

Grilled Cauliflower Hummus Sandwich

Source: karalydon.com

This Grilled Cauliflower Hummus Sandwich offers a creative, plant-based twist on classic sandwiches.

Creamy cauliflower hummus is spread generously on sourdough bread and layered with buttery avocado, peppery arugula, and sweet caramelized onions.

Grilled to perfection with a golden, crispy crust, this sandwich delivers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures.

Perfect for a hearty, wholesome lunch, it’s packed with nutritious ingredients and can easily fit into vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.

Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Sauce & Pomegranate

Source: turkeysforlife.com

This vibrant dish combines golden roasted cauliflower with a creamy, tangy tahini sauce and bursts of fresh pomegranate arils.

Finished with a drizzle of pomegranate molasses and chopped fresh herbs, it’s a flavorful, nutrient-rich plate that works perfectly as a side dish, meze, or vegetarian main.

The roasted cauliflower offers a crisp, nutty bite, balanced by the smooth tahini and the juicy pop of pomegranate, making it an eye-catching and satisfying dish for any occasion.

Roasted Cauliflower Salad with Lentils and Lemon Vinaigrette

Source: thehealthfulideas.com

This hearty and flavorful salad brings together perfectly roasted cauliflower, protein-rich lentils, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes.

Tossed in a bright lemon and sherry vinaigrette and finished with fresh parsley, it’s a versatile dish that can be served warm as a side or cold as a main salad.

Customize it with mixed greens or extra veggies for a complete, satisfying meal.

Creamy Roasted Vegetable Soup

Source: cravingsomethinghealthy.com

This comforting soup combines caramelized roasted vegetables with warming spices for a rich, flavorful dish.

Featuring cauliflower, sweet potato, carrots, and parsnip, blended with creamy cannellini beans and fire-roasted tomatoes, it’s a nutrient-dense, fiber-rich soup without any dairy.

Curry, cumin, and turmeric bring a Mediterranean flair, making it perfect for cozy winter meals.

Sicilian Pasta with Cauliflower, Pine Nuts, Raisins, and Capers

Source: mangiawithmichele.com

This dish is a celebration of Sicilian flavors—combining caramelized onions, fork-tender smashed cauliflower, Marsala-soaked raisins, crispy fried capers, and toasted pine nuts.

The overcooked cauliflower melts into rigatoni, creating a rich, savory-sweet sauce that’s deeply satisfying.

Finished with sharp Pecorino Romano and a drizzle of olive oil, this pasta perfectly balances texture and taste.

It’s a comforting and vibrant meal that captures the essence of Sicilian cuisine.

Italian Broccoli and Cauliflower Salad

Source: christinascucina.com

This Italian-style broccoli and cauliflower salad is a simple, healthy side dish that highlights the natural flavors of fresh vegetables.

Lightly steamed broccoli and cauliflower florets are tossed with extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and sea salt for a crisp, refreshing bite.

Optional dried oregano adds a subtle earthy note. This nutrient-rich dish is quick to prepare and pairs well with any meal, offering a wholesome addition to your table.

Mediterranean Roasted Cauliflower with Lemon Tahini Sauce

Source: therusticfoodie.com

This Mediterranean Roasted Cauliflower is a flavorful vegan side dish featuring crispy, golden cauliflower florets drizzled with a creamy lemon tahini sauce.

Toasted pine nuts add crunch, while fresh mint provides a refreshing finish. Roasted with garlic, salt, and pepper, the cauliflower becomes tender and caramelized.

The tangy tahini sauce, made with sesame paste, lemon juice, and water, brings a zesty richness that elevates the dish. Perfect as a side or a light main, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.

Roasted Cauliflower Pasta with Browned Butter Sauce

Source: rachaelhartleynutrition.com

This Roasted Cauliflower Pasta is a comforting dish that combines caramelized cauliflower and red onions with a rich browned butter sauce.

Briny capers, sweet golden raisins, zesty lemon, and savory anchovies create a complex blend of flavors.

Cherry tomatoes add a fresh pop, while parsley and Parmesan provide a bright, savory finish.

Perfect for cozy nights or when you’re craving something indulgent yet wholesome.

Roasted Cauliflower Tabbouleh Salad

Source: chefjar.com

This Roasted Cauliflower Tabbouleh Salad is a fresh twist on the classic Middle Eastern dish. Replacing traditional bulgur with roasted cauliflower rice makes it light, gluten-free, and full of flavor.

The salad is loaded with crisp parsley, cool mint, juicy tomatoes, and hearty chickpeas. A zesty lemon-Dijon dressing ties it all together, while toasted almonds add a satisfying crunch.

This dish is perfect as a refreshing side or a wholesome vegan main. Letting it chill before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Mediterranean Cauliflower Salad

Source: sabrinacurrie.com

This Mediterranean Cauliflower Salad is a fresh and vibrant side dish packed with bold flavors.

Crunchy cauliflower florets are paired with sweet red peppers, savory red onions, and tossed in a tangy red wine vinegar dressing.

Fresh parsley and mint bring a burst of herbal brightness, while hints of oregano, honey, and olive oil tie everything together.

It’s a refreshing, gluten-free, and vegan salad that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light, healthy meal.