Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Mexican Street Style Grilled Cauliflower Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 10 reviews

This Mexican Street Style Grilled Cauliflower recipe features tender, charred cauliflower florets seasoned with a smoky blend of spices, drizzled with a creamy, tangy chili-lime crema, and topped with crumbly Cotija cheese. It’s an easy, flavorful vegetarian appetizer or side dish that brings vibrant street food flavors to your grill or oven.

  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Cauliflower:

  • 1 large head fresh cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 3 Tbsp. olive oil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • ¼ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder

Crema:

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise (your favorite)
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ¼ tsp chili powder
  • ¼ tsp cumin
  • 1-2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 tsp lime juice

To Finish:

  • ⅓ cup crumbled Cotija cheese
  • Chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to a medium-high temperature of 375-400°F to prepare for cooking the cauliflower.
  2. Season the cauliflower: Place the cauliflower florets into a disposable aluminum pan. Sprinkle evenly with salt, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently until all florets are well coated with the seasoning and oil.
  3. Grill the cauliflower: Set the pan directly on the grill grates. Cook the cauliflower for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even charring and caramelization. The florets should become tender and develop a nice char.
  4. Alternative oven method: If not using a grill, spread the seasoned cauliflower on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F. Stir occasionally for 30-35 minutes, until tender and golden brown.
  5. Prepare the crema: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, cumin, minced garlic, salt, and lime juice. Stir well until smooth and evenly blended.
  6. Assemble the dish: Once the cauliflower is cooked, transfer it to a serving platter. Drizzle the prepared crema generously over the top. Sprinkle with crumbled Cotija cheese and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.

Notes

  • If you prefer a spicier crema, add more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to taste.
  • This dish can be made gluten free by ensuring your mayonnaise and sour cream are gluten free.
  • Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor in the crema.
  • For a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan-friendly alternatives and skip the Cotija cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.
  • Leftover grilled cauliflower can be refrigerated and gently reheated or used in salads.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Vegetarian