Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Unique: Combines the smoky char of grilled cauliflower with a zesty crema and the rich saltiness of Cotija cheese.
Healthy and Satisfying: A low-carb, vegetarian option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Easy to Prepare: Requires minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your personal taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cauliflower:

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Crema:

¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
¼ teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon cumin
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons lime juice
⅓ cup crumbled Cotija cheese

For Garnish:

Chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (approximately 375-400°F).
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder. Sprinkle this seasoning blend over the oiled cauliflower and toss to coat evenly.
Grill the Cauliflower:
- Place the seasoned cauliflower florets in a disposable aluminum pan or directly on the grill grates.
- Grill for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and has developed a nice char.
Prepare the Crema:
- While the cauliflower is grilling, in a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, cumin, minced garlic, and lime juice. Stir until well combined.
Assemble the Dish:
- Once the cauliflower is grilled to your liking, transfer it to a serving platter.
- Drizzle the prepared crema over the warm cauliflower, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
- Sprinkle the crumbled Cotija cheese over the top.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Total Time: 30-40 minutes

Variations

Spice Level: For added heat, sprinkle cayenne pepper over the cauliflower before grilling or mix it into the crema.
Cheese Alternatives: If Cotija cheese is unavailable, crumbled feta or Parmesan can be used as substitutes.
Vegan Option: Use vegan mayonnaise and sour cream alternatives, and substitute the Cotija cheese with vegan cheese crumbles.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or enjoy cold as a salad.

FAQs

Can I bake the cauliflower instead of grilling it?

Yes, you can roast the cauliflower in the oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly caramelized.

What if I can’t find Cotija cheese?

Feta or Parmesan cheese are suitable alternatives that will still provide a delightful flavor to the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, by using plant-based mayonnaise, sour cream, and vegan cheese, this recipe can be adapted for a vegan diet.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the crema and season the cauliflower ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble just before serving.

How can I make this spicier?

Incorporate chopped jalapeños into the crema or sprinkle chili flakes over the grilled cauliflower before serving.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Style Grilled Cauliflower is a vibrant and tasty dish that brings together smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a low-carb, vegetarian option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether served as a side or a main course, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Mexican Street Style Grilled Cauliflower

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Chef Sara
Total Time: 30–40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Mexican Street Style Grilled Cauliflower offers a flavorful and low-carb twist on traditional Mexican street corn. Grilled cauliflower florets are seasoned with spices, topped with creamy, spicy sauce, and garnished with Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro. This vibrant dish is perfect as a side or a vegetarian main course for BBQs, cookouts, and family gatherings.

Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 375–400°F).
- Toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil in a large bowl until evenly coated.
- In a small bowl, combine salt, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder. Sprinkle the seasoning blend over the cauliflower and toss to coat.
Grill the Cauliflower:
- Place the seasoned cauliflower florets on a disposable aluminum pan or directly on the grill grates.
- Grill for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and has developed a nice char.
Prepare the Crema:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, cumin, minced garlic, and lime juice until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Dish:
- Once the cauliflower is grilled, transfer it to a serving platter.
- Drizzle the crema over the warm cauliflower, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
- Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese on top and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Notes

Spice Level: Add cayenne pepper to the crema or sprinkle chili flakes on the grilled cauliflower for extra heat.

Cheese Alternatives: Use crumbled feta or Parmesan cheese if Cotija is unavailable.

Vegan Option: Swap the mayo and sour cream for plant-based versions, and use vegan cheese crumbles instead of Cotija.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or enjoy cold as a salad.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–30 minutes
Category: Side Dish / Vegetarian Main
Method: Grilled
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired