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Keto Street Style Cauliflower 🌶️

Published: · Updated: by · 6 Comments

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This Keto Street Style Cauliflower is a delicious low-carb side dish with vibrant Mexican flavors. Even if you're not a cauliflower fan, this recipe will make you a big fan! It features charred cauliflower florets, creamy sauce, jalapeños, cilantro, and queso fresco, adding a delightful twist to classic Mexican street food. Let's dig into the recipe!

roasted cauliflower on plate with toppings
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Preparation and cooking overview

Prepare a perfect side dish in less than an hour with our recipe! Cut a large head of cauliflower into florets, toss them with avocado oil and chili powder, and roast them in the oven for 40-45 minutes until tender. You'll have a mouthwatering Mexican Street Style Cauliflower dish that'll leave you craving more!

Chef's note

Feel free to customize this cauliflower recipe to your liking. Mix the raw florets with olive oil and roasted pecan pieces before roasting for added crunch. You can also include more veggies like sliced bell peppers, onions, or diced tomatoes in the skillet with the cauliflower during the last 10 minutes of roasting.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 Minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 8 Servings

🌶️ Ingredients for this keto street-style cauliflower recipe

Let's make this roasted cauliflower recipe with the following simple ingredients!

  • 1 large head cauliflower cut into 1" florets
  • ¼ cup avocado oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder

Sauce

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise, egg-free if plant-based
  • ½ cup sour cream dairy-free if plant-based, we use Forager
  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

Toppings

  • ⅓ cup crumbled queso fresco, dairy-free if plant-based, we use Forager
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced or minced
  • 3 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro

Ingredient substitutions

  • Chili powder: If you prefer milder spice, use paprika or smoked paprika.
  • Lime juice: Fresh lemon juice is an excellent substitute for lime juice.
  • Jalapeños: If jalapeños aren't your thing, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for gentle heat.
  • Cilantro: Fresh parsley can replace cilantro with a similar flavor.

Additional ingredients

Feel free to experiment and include these additional ingredients to take this low-carb cauliflower recipe to the next level!

  • Bell peppers: Roast some bell peppers alongside the cauliflower for added color, texture, and flavor.
  • Red onion: Toss thinly sliced red onion to bring a mild flavor to the dish.
  • Tomatoes: Add some juicy diced tomatoes to bring a pop of brightness and bold flavors to the dish.
  • Chipotle sauce: Add a kick of heat and smokiness by drizzling some spicy chipotle sauce over the crispy cauliflower.
  • Bacon: Crumble some crispy bacon on top of the dish for a delightful salty and savory contrast.
  • Cheese: Add mozzarella, cheddar, or feta cheese at the top for cheesy goodness. You can also add the Mexican cheese of your choice for true Mexican flavors.
  • Taco seasoning: Instead of adding chili powder and other spices, you can also add Keto Taco Seasoning for a robust flavor.

Cooking tools required

To make this Mexican Street-Style Cauliflower Recipe, you will need the following kitchen tools:

  • 10" or larger cast iron skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Tool substitutes list

  • Cast iron skillet: If you don't have a cast iron skillet, use a baking sheet.

How to make Keto Street Style Cauliflower: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Roasting

Preparation steps

  1. Gather and measure all the ingredients required for the recipe.
  2. Wash the large cauliflower head and cut it into 1" florets.
  3. Cut lime into wedges, thinly slice jalapeño, and mince cilantro.

Cooking instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the cauliflower florets in a 10" or larger cast iron skillet, drizzle with the avocado oil, and sprinkle with the chili powder.
  3. Transfer to the oven and roast for 40-45 minutes until tender.
  4. In a medium bowl, mix the sauce ingredients.
  5. To serve, transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving platter, generously drizzle it with the sauce, and sprinkle it with the toppings.

Chef's pro tip

To ensure perfectly roasted cauliflower, avoid overcrowding the skillet or baking sheet. Spread the cauliflower florets in a single layer, leaving space between them for even cooking. This prevents steaming and promotes delicious charring.

What to serve with keto street-style cauliflower?

For meat lovers

  • Keto Carnitas: Savory, tender, slow-cooked pork pairs well with the cauliflower's smoky char.
  • Chicken Fajita: The savory flavor of this meat is a perfect match for the Tex-Mex flavors in the cauliflower.
  • Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas: The bold, spicy flavors of the chicken and cauliflower complement each other wonderfully.
  • Broiled Salmon: Delicate and flaky salmon fillets go really well with the cauliflower.
  • Turkey Burger: For a fun and flavorful Tex-Mex twist on burger night, serve this roasted cauliflower alongside juicy turkey patties.

For plant-based options

  • Chili lime tofu: Crispy tofu with a zesty kick pairs well with cauliflower and offers a delightful plant-based protein option.
  • Burrito bowls: Create a flavorful bowl with cauliflower, along with other keto-friendly ingredients like avocado, lettuce, and salsa.
  • Low-carb tortillas: Wrap the cauliflower in low-carb tortillas for a handheld treat bursting with Mexican flavors.

How to make it healthier?

  • Reduce sodium content: Look for low-sodium or salt-free seasoning alternatives.
  • Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt: Replace some of the mayonnaise in the sauce with plain Greek yogurt. This will lower the fat content while adding protein and creaminess.
  • Choose a low-fat or light sour cream: If you prefer a lighter option, go for low-fat or light sour cream instead of regular sour cream.
  • Increase vegetable toppings: Boost the dish's nutritional value by adding more vegetables as toppings. Add diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or sliced radishes for added color and crunch.

Time-saving tips

  • Purchase pre-cut cauliflower florets from the grocery store. This eliminates the need for chopping and reduces prep time.
  • While the cauliflower is roasting in the oven, use that time to prepare other components of your meal.
  • Double the recipe and save the leftovers for future meals. Roasted cauliflower can be refrigerated for a couple of days, making it a convenient option for quick and easy lunches or dinners.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Pre-cut cauliflower: Save time by pre-cutting the cauliflower into florets and storing them in the refrigerator until ready to use.
  • Mix the sauce ingredients: Combine the sauce ingredients, such as mayonnaise, sour cream, spices, and lime juice, in a bowl and refrigerate until needed.

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage tips

  • Store the leftover cauliflower in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag to maintain freshness.
  • Refrigerate the cauliflower within 2 hours of cooking and consume the refrigerated leftovers within 2 days.

Note: Cauliflower may not freeze well after being cooked with a creamy sauce and toppings. It's generally best to avoid freezing this recipe.

Reheating best practices

  • Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and spread the leftovers on a baking sheet. Cover with foil and reheat for 10-15 minutes.
  • Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet or add a small amount of oil. Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

Our Keto Street Style Cauliflower is a flavorful Mexican-inspired keto delight that will leave you craving more. The charred cauliflower adds a smoky twist, making it a delightful veggie side dish that can even pass as a main dish.

Now, it's time to take action! Bring together your ingredients, start cooking, and experience the magic of this recipe. Share it with your friends and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mexican-inspired cuisine together!

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can use dairy-free alternatives or plant-based options for ingredients like sour cream and queso fresco.

Absolutely! You can mix the sauce ingredients ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to use.

Yes! If you want to use a roasting sheet, simply follow the same instructions below for using a cast-iron skillet, except place the florets on the baking sheet in a single layer.

The Mexican street cauliflower can be refrigerated for up to 2 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

While it is typically a side dish, you can make it a main dish by adding protein-rich ingredients like shredded chicken, grilled salmon, or keto carnitas.

Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture and taste of the cauliflower.

📖 Recipe

street style cauliflower on plate topped with cream, jalapenos, and lime

Keto Street Style Cauliflower

This Keto Street Style Cauliflower is loaded with Mexican flavors and makes the perfect side dish.
4.92 from 12 votes
Print Rate Pin Recipe
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: easy, keto mexican cauliflower rice, low carb, street style cauliflower, vegetarian
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 209kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 large head cauliflower cut into 1” florets
  • ¼ cup avocado oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder

Sauce

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise egg-free if plant-based
  • ½ cup sour cream dairy-free if plant-based, we use Forager
  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

Toppings

  • ⅓ cup crumbled Queso Fresco dairy-free if plant-based, we use Forager
  • 1 lime cut into wedges
  • 1 jalapeño thinly sliced or minced
  • 3 tablespoons minced cilantro
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Place the cauliflower florets in a 10" or larger cast iron skillet, drizzle with the avocado oil, and sprinkle with the chili powder.
  • Transfer to the oven and roast for 40-45 minutes until tender.
  • In a medium bowl, mix the sauce ingredients.
  • To serve, transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving platter, generously drizzle it with the sauce, and sprinkle it with the toppings.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Keto Street Style Cauliflower
Amount Per Serving
Calories 209 Calories from Fat 169
% Daily Value*
Fat 18.8g29%
Carbohydrates 8.1g3%
Fiber 2.8g12%
Protein 4.7g9%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Elaine says

    Looks good! But did you mean cotija cheese instead?

    Reply

  2. Valerie says

    5 stars
    This was super easy and delicious!

    Reply

  3. Lisa says

    That looks so good!

    Reply

  4. Erin says

    5 stars
    LOOOOOVED THIS!

    Reply

  5. Sheila Mustain says

    5 stars
    Your recipes are so solid. I made this last night and it was fantastic. I threw in some chicken thighs and made it a whole meal. YUM. Highly recommend!!

    Reply

  6. Erin says

    5 stars
    This dish is amazing! I had to stop myself from eating half the entire recipe in one sitting. I couldn't find cotija cheese at my local grocery, so I substituted parmesan, and it still was great.

    Reply

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