Description

This vibrant Mexican Street Cauliflower offers a delightful plant-based take on classic street food flavors. Thick slices of cauliflower are roasted until tender with beautifully caramelized edges, then generously seasoned with a blend of chili powder and paprika. Each piece is finished with a sprinkle of crumbled Cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of bright lime juice, creating a harmonious balance of savory, tangy, and subtly spicy notes.

Ingredients

Scale

1 large head cauliflower, cut into 1-inch thick "steaks"
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta)
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges, for serving

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange cauliflower steaks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Brush the seasoned oil mixture evenly over both sides of the cauliflower steaks.
Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and has golden-brown, slightly charred edges.
Remove from oven and transfer to a serving platter.
Sprinkle generously with crumbled Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro.
Serve immediately with lime wedges for squeezing over.

Notes

For extra flavor, a thin layer of mayonnaise or Mexican crema can be spread on the cauliflower before adding cheese and cilantro.

Ensure cauliflower steaks are cut evenly for consistent cooking.

This dish can also be grilled or air-fried. For grilling, cook over medium-high heat for 4-6 minutes per side. For air frying, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

To make it vegan, omit the cheese and use a drizzle of vegan crema or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 180
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 8g