Name: Mexican Street Cauliflower with Cotija and Cilantro Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 head Cauliflower (Choose a large, fresh head); 2 tablespoons Mild Tasting Oil (avocado, safflower, or sunflower oil); 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (homemade or high-quality store-bought); 1 teaspoon Chili Powder (adjust based on heat preference); 1/2 cup Cotija Cheese (substitute with feta or ricotta salata); 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (can substitute parsley); 2 Lime Wedges (or lemon wedges for serving)

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Introduction

Mexican Street Cauliflower is a delightful low-carb take on the classic elote, featuring grilled cauliflower steaks topped with creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a flavorful side that everyone will enjoy.

A wooden bowl filled with one main layer of roasted cauliflower florets that are golden with dark charred spots and uneven textures. The florets are drizzled unevenly with a bright orange sauce and sprinkled with small white crumbles. There are fresh green cilantro leaves scattered on top, adding touches of green color. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with partial lime halves blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 head cauliflower (choose a large, fresh head)
2 tablespoons mild tasting oil (options include avocado, safflower, or sunflower oil)
1/4 cup mayonnaise (homemade is best but high-quality store-bought works)
1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust based on your heat preference)
1/2 cup cotija cheese (substitutes include feta or ricotta salata)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro (can substitute parsley)
2 lime wedges (feel free to use lemon instead)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower, then cut it into four thick steaks.
Step 3: Brush both sides of each cauliflower steak generously with the mild tasting oil.
Step 4: Grill the cauliflower steaks for 5-6 minutes on each side until they develop a nice char.
Step 5: Check tenderness by piercing with a fork; if you prefer softer cauliflower, move the steaks to indirect heat and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Step 6: Remove from the grill and brush each steak evenly with mayonnaise.
Step 7: Sprinkle chili powder, cotija cheese, and chopped fresh cilantro over the top.
Step 8: Serve immediately, squeezing fresh lime juice over each cauliflower steak.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, use a charcoal grill or add a few wood chips to a gas grill.
Swap cotija cheese for feta or ricotta salata to vary the flavor and texture.
If you prefer a dairy-free version, replace mayonnaise with a vegan mayo and omit the cheese.
Adjust the chili powder to suit your preferred spice level, or add a pinch of smoked paprika for added depth.

Storage

Store any leftover grilled cauliflower in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the grill to maintain texture, and avoid microwaving as it can make the cauliflower soggy. Add fresh toppings and lime juice after reheating for the best taste.

How to Serve

A wooden bowl filled with three main layers of roasted cauliflower florets, each floret showing golden brown charred spots and a slightly rough texture. The florets are dappled with bright red-orange sauce spread thinly over their tops, sprinkled with small, crumbly white cheese bits, and scattered green cilantro leaves adding a fresh pop of color. Around the bowl, light green lime halves are partially visible on the white marbled surface. The overall look is warm and rustic with vibrant contrasts of orange, white, and green on the browned cauliflower. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, you can roast the cauliflower steaks in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are charred and tender.

Is this dish suitable for keto or low-carb diets?

Absolutely. Cauliflower is naturally low in carbs, and this recipe uses ingredients that fit well within keto and low-carb guidelines.