These Harissa Spiced Cauliflower Steaks are a plant-based twist on a classic steak-and-potatoes dinner. I sear thick slabs of cauliflower until golden brown, glaze them with a sweet and smoky harissa-inspired spice mix, and serve them alongside a silky cauliflower mash and lemony chickpeas. The dish feels indulgent yet light, and it comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for a cozy dinner for two.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe uses the whole cauliflower—steaks from the center and a creamy mash from the leftover florets. The harissa-inspired spices add depth without overwhelming heat, and the chickpeas with lemon and greens make the plate bright and satisfying. It feels special enough for a date night, but it’s also quick enough for a weeknight meal.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cauliflower steaks and mash

• 1½ lb head of cauliflower

• ¾ cup + 2 teaspoons water, divided (more to thin if needed)

• 1 large clove garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

• ¼ + ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt, divided

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

• ¾ teaspoon paprika

• ¾ teaspoon ground cumin

• ¾ teaspoon ground coriander

• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne

• Tahini for drizzling (optional)

Warm lemon chickpeas

• 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

• 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and patted dry

• 1 cup finely chopped lacinato kale

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons currants

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Trim cauliflower leaves but keep the stem intact. Slice into two thick steaks (about 1½ inches). Chop the remaining florets for the mash.

3. For the mash, steam chopped cauliflower in ¾ cup water until tender, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until water evaporates. Transfer to a food processor with lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Blend until smooth, adding water if needed.

4. Heat a skillet with 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear cauliflower steaks until golden on both sides, about 3 minutes per side.

5. Stir maple syrup, paprika, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne, and 2 teaspoons water into a quick glaze. Brush over steaks, then transfer them to the oven for a few minutes to stay warm.

6. For the chickpeas, sauté them in olive oil with kale until warmed. Stir in lemon juice, currants, parsley, salt, and pepper.

7. Plate the mash, top with steaks, and drizzle with tahini if desired. Serve with chickpeas.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 servings. Prep time is 10 minutes, cook time is 20 minutes, for a total of 30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap kale for spinach or arugula if that’s what I have on hand. Dried cranberries or golden raisins work in place of currants. If I want more heat, I add extra cayenne or use a spoonful of harissa paste instead of the spice blend.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I store the components separately so the cauliflower steaks don’t get soggy. To reheat, I warm the mash and chickpeas on the stovetop and re-crisp the steaks in a hot skillet or oven.

FAQs

Can I make more than two cauliflower steaks from one head?

I usually only get two solid steaks because they hold together best around the stem. The remaining florets go into the mash, so nothing is wasted.

Can I use store-bought harissa paste?

Yes, but it’s usually spicier. I’d start with a small amount and adjust to taste so it doesn’t overpower the dish.

What can I serve with this meal?

I like serving it with a simple green salad or warm flatbread for a more filling dinner.

Can I make this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

It’s already naturally vegan and gluten-free, which makes it a great option for different dietary needs.

Can I prepare any parts ahead of time?

Yes, I often make the cauliflower mash and chickpeas earlier in the day, then just sear and glaze the steaks right before dinner.

Conclusion

I find these Harissa Spiced Cauliflower Steaks to be a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. They’re hearty, flavorful, and satisfying without being heavy. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a stay-at-home date night, this recipe always feels like something special.