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cauliflower elote

Cauliflower Elote: The Irresistible Vegetable Dish You Need to Try

This Cauliflower Elote is a low-carb, flavorful take on the traditional Mexican elote. Roasted cauliflower florets are coated in a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce, topped with cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Perfect as a side dish or a tasty snack, this dish brings all the flavors of street corn without the corn!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 190
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder
  • 3 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp sour cream
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp hot sauce optional
  • 1 tsp tajín seasoning optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 220°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the cauliflower: In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder.
  3. Roast the cauliflower: Spread the seasoned florets on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
  4. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and hot sauce (if using).
  5. Coat the cauliflower: Once roasted, transfer the cauliflower to a mixing bowl and toss with the creamy sauce until evenly coated.
  6. Add toppings: Sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and a dusting of tajín seasoning.
  7. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, replace mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cheese.
  • Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or reducing chili powder and hot sauce.
  • If you can’t find cotija cheese, use feta or parmesan as substitutes.
  • Pairs well with grilled meats or tacos for a complete meal.