Grilled Cauliflower Steaks with Yogurt Tahini Sauce: A Flavorful Vegetarian Delight
Grilled Cauliflower Steaks with Yogurt Tahini Sauce transforms the humble cauliflower into an extraordinary culinary experience. Forget the usual steamed or roasted florets; this recipe introduces you to the magic of grilling, where cauliflower develops a beautiful smoky char and a delightfully crispy outer layer. Inside, the florets become incredibly tender, soaking up the aromatic flavors of za’atar and olive oil. Each succulent “steak” is then elegantly finished with a generous drizzle of tangy yogurt tahini sauce and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will impress even the most discerning palates.
This innovative approach to cooking cauliflower is not just delicious; it’s an exciting way to enjoy vegetables, perfect for anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet or simply seeking a fresh, vibrant side dish. The robust flavors and satisfying texture make these cauliflower steaks a standout dish, whether served as a vegetarian main course or a compelling accompaniment to your favorite grilled proteins.
I am thrilled to share today’s Grilled Cauliflower Steaks with Yogurt Tahini Sauce, brought to you in partnership with ADA Mideast. This collaboration highlights the versatility of dairy products, particularly yogurt, in creating healthy and delicious meals. Yogurt not only adds a wonderful creamy texture and tangy flavor to our tahini sauce but also provides essential nutrients like protein and calcium, making this dish both flavorful and nourishing.
This recipe is truly the perfect way to savor the last days of summer, making it an excellent addition to your Labor Day celebrations or any casual backyard gathering. Its light yet satisfying nature is ideal for warm weather, offering a refreshing alternative to heavier meals.
The star of this dish, beyond the cauliflower, is undoubtedly the versatile yogurt tahini sauce. Its bright, tangy profile is not limited to just vegetables; it’s a fantastic condiment that can elevate a variety of dishes. Imagine drizzling it over these Grilled Beef Kofta Kebabs, adding a fresh zest to a Mediterranean Salmon Bowl, enhancing the flavor of these Grilled Chicken Thighs with Greek Marinade, or serving it alongside savory Lebanese Meat Pies. Its adaptability makes it a staple in any kitchen.
In Lebanese culture, yogurt is a cornerstone ingredient, embraced in countless recipes across the culinary spectrum. From creamy dressings like this Creamy Dill Sauce, to tenderizing marinades for dishes such as Yogurt Marinated Chicken, and even delightful breakfast options like Greek Yogurt Waffles, its presence is fundamental. This rich tradition underscores the natural fit of yogurt in our tahini sauce, bringing authentic depth and character to our grilled cauliflower steaks.
Cauliflower, itself a remarkably versatile vegetable, frequently graces our menu. Whether it’s the warm, earthy notes of Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower, the spicy kick of Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower, or the fragrant simplicity of Za’atar Cauliflower, we constantly find new and exciting ways to prepare this nutrient-dense cruciferous vegetable. Grilling it into “steaks” is just another creative method to unlock its full potential, offering a unique texture and smoky flavor that sets it apart.
Why You’ll Love These Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this grilled cauliflower steak recipe. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings together diverse flavors and appealing textures, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.
- Incredible Flavor & Texture: The grill imparts an irresistible smoky flavor and creates beautiful, slightly charred edges, while the inside remains wonderfully tender. This contrast is absolutely divine.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Cauliflower is packed with nutrients, fiber, and vitamins, making this a guilt-free and nourishing meal. Paired with protein-rich yogurt, it’s a truly balanced dish.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A fantastic option for vegetarians looking for a hearty, satisfying main course that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Versatile Sauce: The yogurt tahini sauce is a game-changer! It’s creamy, tangy, and complements not only the cauliflower but also a variety of other grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables.
- Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet appearance, this recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Perfect for Grilling Season: Harness the power of your grill to cook this vegetable to perfection, adding that sought-after outdoor cooking essence to your meal.
Essential Recipe Ingredients

Here’s a detailed look at the simple yet impactful ingredients that come together to create this incredible dish. You’ll find exact amounts and printable instructions on the recipe card below.
- Cauliflower: The star of our dish! This recipe calls for two large heads, yielding a generous serving. If you’re cooking for a smaller group, feel free to halve the recipe and use just one. Look for firm, white heads with no brown spots for the best “steaks.”
- Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is crucial for adding a bright, tangy zest that beautifully cuts through the richness of the olive oil and complements the earthy spices. It’s a flavor enhancer you won’t want to skip.
- Garlic: Minced garlic cloves infuse the cauliflower with a pungent, aromatic flavor that is foundational to many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. Fresh garlic makes all the difference!
- Spices: Our carefully selected blend includes paprika for a mild sweetness and vibrant color, fragrant oregano and thyme for classic Mediterranean notes, and the unique addition of za’atar or sumac. Za’atar, a Middle Eastern spice blend, offers a herbaceous, nutty, and slightly tangy flavor, while sumac provides a distinctive lemony tang. Choose one, or use both for a more complex profile!
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese provides a delightful salty and tangy finish, adding a creamy texture and Mediterranean flair that pairs perfectly with the grilled cauliflower.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is essential not only for coating the cauliflower before grilling, ensuring it becomes beautifully charred and tender, but also for its rich flavor contribution.
- Yogurt Tahini Sauce: This creamy, tangy sauce is the perfect counterpoint to the smoky cauliflower. It’s a simple blend of plain yogurt (preferably full-fat for creaminess, or Greek yogurt for extra thickness), rich tahini (sesame paste), and more fresh lemon juice for brightness. This combination creates a sauce that is both refreshing and deeply satisfying.

How to Craft Perfect Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
Turning a whole head of cauliflower into elegant, grill-ready steaks is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps to achieve beautifully cooked, flavorful cauliflower every time:
Step 1: Prepare the Cauliflower for Steaks. Begin by carefully removing all the tough outer leaves from each cauliflower head. Next, trim off the very bottom of the stem, ensuring you create a flat, stable base that allows the cauliflower to stand upright without wobbling. This is crucial for uniform cutting. Place each cauliflower head on its prepared flat base. Now, with a sharp knife, slice off the sides of the cauliflower, creating large, thick “steaks” from the center. Aim for about three medium-sized steaks per head, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches thick. The key is to cut them large enough so they hold their structure on the grill. Don’t discard the smaller florets and trimmings from the sides; these can be roasted or used in other recipes!
Step 2: Infuse with Oil and Spices. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic. Then, add your carefully selected spices: paprika, oregano, thyme, and either za’atar or sumac (or a combination if you like an extra layer of flavor). Mix everything until well combined. Before seasoning your cauliflower, preheat your grill to a medium heat, aiming for approximately 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures the grill is hot enough to create those desirable char marks and cook the cauliflower efficiently.

Step 3: Grill to Smoky Perfection. Arrange the prepared cauliflower steaks on a large cutting board or a couple of spacious plates. Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously coat each side of the cauliflower with the olive oil and spice mixture. Don’t forget to sprinkle a dash of salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavors. Once your grill is preheated, carefully place the cauliflower steaks directly on the grates. Close the grill lid to allow for even cooking and a good infusion of smoky flavor. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side. You’re looking for the cauliflower to develop attractive char marks and become fork-tender. This timing might vary slightly depending on your grill and the thickness of your steaks, so keep an eye on them. Once grilled, remove the cauliflower from the grill and immediately sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and a generous amount of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness.

Step 4: Create the Tangy Yogurt Tahini Sauce. While your cauliflower is grilling, prepare the sensational yogurt tahini sauce. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, tahini, fresh lemon juice, and a dash of salt and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and well-emulsified. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches your desired drizzling consistency. Once the grilled cauliflower steaks are plated and garnished, generously drizzle the homemade yogurt tahini sauce over them. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmonious blend of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors!

Expert Tips for Perfect Grilled Cauliflower Steaks
To ensure your grilled cauliflower steaks are nothing short of spectacular, consider these helpful tips:
- Choose the Right Head: Select a large, firm head of cauliflower that is dense and white. Avoid any with soft spots or discoloration, as these may not hold up well during grilling.
- Sharp Knife is Key: A very sharp chef’s knife will make cutting the steaks much easier and cleaner, helping the florets stay intact.
- Don’t Skimp on Oil: The olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps the cauliflower get those beautiful char marks without sticking to the grill. Don’t be shy with brushing it on!
- Preheat Your Grill Properly: A hot grill is essential for a good sear. Make sure it reaches medium heat (around 350°F / 175°C) before placing the steaks on it.
- Keep the Lid Closed: Closing the grill lid helps to trap heat and smoke, which cooks the cauliflower more evenly and infuses it with that irresistible smoky flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Grill in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the grill can lower the temperature and lead to steaming instead of charring, preventing those crispy edges.
- Watch for Tenderness: Cauliflower cooks relatively quickly. Grill until fork-tender and slightly charred, but not mushy. The goal is tender-crisp.
- Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to customize the spice blend. If you love heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes would be a great addition.
- Rest if Needed: While not strictly necessary for vegetables, letting the cauliflower rest for a minute or two off the grill before serving can allow the flavors to meld further.
Storage & Reheating Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store the grilled cauliflower steaks and the yogurt tahini sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating Cauliflower: To reheat, the best method is to use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or a conventional oven at the same temperature for 10-15 minutes, until heated through and slightly crisp again. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the cauliflower soggy.
- Reheating Sauce: The yogurt tahini sauce is best served chilled or at room temperature. Give it a good whisk before serving again, as it might thicken slightly in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions for Your Cauliflower Steaks
These grilled cauliflower steaks are incredibly versatile and can be the star of your meal or a vibrant side dish. Here are some ideas to complete your culinary creation:
- As a Vegetarian Main: Serve two cauliflower steaks per person as a satisfying main course. Pair them with a fresh green salad, quinoa, or a simple rice pilaf.
- Side Dish: They make an excellent side to grilled chicken, fish, or beef. Their smoky flavor and tangy sauce perfectly complement a variety of proteins.
- Mediterranean Feast: Create a full Mediterranean spread by serving them alongside hummus, pita bread, tabbouleh, and falafel.
- Holiday Dish: These steaks are impressive enough for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving or Christmas, offering a delicious plant-based option that everyone will enjoy.
- Bowl Meal: Chop the grilled cauliflower and add it to a grain bowl with your favorite greens, roasted vegetables, and an extra dollop of tahini sauce.
Explore More Delicious Cauliflower Recipes
Vegetarian
Roasted Cauliflower with Almonds and Panko Topping
Experience a delightful crunch with this roasted cauliflower, elevated by a crispy almond and panko topping.
Mediterranean
Cauliflower Tabbouleh
A fresh and healthy twist on the classic tabbouleh, replacing traditional bulgur with finely chopped cauliflower.
Vegetarian
Za’atar Roasted Cauliflower with Yogurt Tahini Sauce
Take your roasted cauliflower to the next level with the aromatic goodness of za’atar, perfectly complemented by a creamy tahini sauce.
Mediterranean
Air Fryer Cauliflower
Achieve perfectly crispy and tender cauliflower florets with minimal oil using your air fryer.
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Grilled Cauliflower Steaks with Yogurt Tahini Sauce

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Ingredients
- 2 large heads cauliflower
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil + more for the grill
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1 to 2 teaspoons za’atar or sumac {optional}
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Dash of pepper
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh parsley, chopped
For the yogurt tahini sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 teaspoon tahini
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Dash of salt and pepper
Instructions
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Remove all of the outer leaves that are on each of the cauliflower heads. Cut off the stem at the bottom of each cauliflower. You want the cauliflower to stand up on a flat base when set down.
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Set each cauliflower head on its base. Cut the sides off of the cauliflower. Cut the rest of the cauliflower into 3 medium sized steaks. You want them to be large enough so they stay intact on the grill.
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In a medium bowl mix together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, thyme, za’atar or sumac {optional}. Heat a grill to medium (about 350 degrees F).
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Place the cauliflower steaks on a large cutting board or two large plates. Brush each side of the cauliflower with the olive oil mixture and sprinkle and dash of salt and pepper on each side. Set the cauliflower steaks on the grill and close the grill. Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side. You want the cauliflower to just begin to char and also become tender.
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Remove from the grill and sprinkle feta cheese and fresh parsley on the cauliflower steaks.
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In a medium mixing bowl combine the yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, salt and pepper and whisk well. Drizzle the yogurt tahini sauce over the cauliflower steaks. Enjoy!
Notes
- The yogurt tahini sauce would be a great sauce to drizzle on grilled chicken, steak, salmon or shrimp.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Today’s post is sponsored by ADA Mideast.