When the sun starts warming up the backyard and the grill beckons, I find myself craving something fresh and exciting for dinner. Picture this: juicy, charred cauliflower steaks that bring the vibrant flavors and bold spices of Mexican street corn right to your plate, minus the carbs. That’s where my Grilled Mexican Street Cauliflower (Elote) comes into play—a twist on a classic that has quickly become one of my favorite side dishes.
With just a handful of ingredients, this dish transforms humble cauliflower into a succulent, creamy delight topped with zesty lime juice and cotija cheese. Better yet, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect companion for taco night or any casual gathering. Whether you’re on a low-carb journey or simply looking to shake up your dinner routine, this recipe promises crowd-pleasing flavors without any fuss. Let’s get started on this delicious staple that’s sure to impress!
Why is Mexican Street Cauliflower (Elote) So Special?
Simplicity: You only need a few ingredients to whip up this delightful dish, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Bursting with Flavor: Each bite combines smoky char, tangy lime, and the creaminess of mayonnaise, creating a taste sensation.
Versatile Options: Substitute cotija cheese or experiment with different spices for a personal flair.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for taco nights or as a healthy side, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Mexican Street Cauliflower Ingredients
• A quick list to get you started!
For the Cauliflower Steaks
- Cauliflower – The star of the dish, this vegetable serves as a delightful low-carb alternative to corn.
- Mild Tasting Oil – Use oils with a high smoke point like avocado or sunflower oil for grilling; avoid EVOO for high heat.
For the Creamy Topping
- Mayonnaise – Adds a creamy richness and helps the seasoning stick; opt for homemade for the freshest taste, but storebought is fine too.
- Chili Powder – This spice adds a beautiful kick; feel free to adjust according to your spice preference.
For the Finishing Touches
- Cotija Cheese – Offers a unique salty flavor; feta or ricotta salata can be substituted if needed, though the flavors will change.
- Fresh Cilantro – Provides a burst of color and freshness; it can also be replaced with parsley for a different note.
- Lime Wedges – Squeeze over the finished steaks for a refreshing, tangy boost.
With this selection of ingredients, your Mexican Street Cauliflower (Elote) will shine at any gathering!
How to Make Mexican Street Cauliflower (Elote)
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Preheat the grill to medium heat, ensuring it’s ready for those delicious cauliflower steaks. This should take about 10 minutes to reach the perfect cooking temperature.
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Prepare the cauliflower by removing the leaves and cutting it into four thick steaks. Aim for a thickness of about one inch for ideal grilling.
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Brush oil on both sides of the cauliflower steaks, ensuring an even coating. This will help achieve that lovely char and prevent sticking on the grill.
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Grill the steaks directly over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until they begin to char. Carefully flip them and grill for another 5-6 minutes on the other side.
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For a softer texture, move the steaks to indirect heat and grill covered for about 10 more minutes. This allows them to cook through while keeping them juicy.
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Remove the steaks from the grill and brush each one generously with mayonnaise. This adds a creamy texture and helps the toppings stick beautifully.
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Top with a sprinkle of chili powder, crumbled cotija cheese, and fresh chopped cilantro. Each bite should be bursting with flavor and color!
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Squeeze juicy lime wedges over the steaks before serving them immediately. The lime will amplify the bright flavors, making each bite unforgettable.
Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Mexican Street Cauliflower (Elote) Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and enhance your experience with delightful twists!
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Feta Cheese: Substitute cotija with feta for a creamier, tangy flavor. It adds a unique Mediterranean touch that’s equally delicious.
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Spicy Twist: Replace chili powder with chipotle powder for a smoky heat. The chipotle adds depth while invigorating your taste buds.
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Herb Boost: Toss in fresh mint along with cilantro for a refreshing flavor kick. The coolness of mint complements the creamy topping beautifully.
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Vegan Option: Use avocado cream instead of mayonnaise for a rich vegan alternative. Blended avocado with lime creates a smooth, creamy topping.
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Grilled Additions: Top the cauliflower with grilled shrimp or chicken for a heartier meal. This combination brings together protein and flavors in a delightful way.
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Citrus Zing: Experiment with fresh grapefruit juice instead of lime for a zesty citrus punch. Its unique flavors will surprise everyone at the table.
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Cheesy Bliss: Mix in a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a melty topping. The gooey cheese adds comfort and richness to your dish.
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Sweet Heat: Drizzle honey or agave over the cauliflower before serving for a touch of sweetness. It complements the spice perfectly and invites more flavor to every bite.
Expert Tips for Mexican Street Cauliflower
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Grill Prepping: Make sure to oil the grill grates before cooking. This will prevent sticking and help get that desirable char on your Mexican Street Cauliflower.
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Cut Evenly: Try to slice the cauliflower steaks evenly, about one inch thick. This ensures they cook at the same rate and achieve perfect tenderness.
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Mayonnaise Magic: Don’t skimp on brushing on the mayonnaise after grilling! It not only adds flavor but also helps the toppings adhere better to the cauliflower.
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Spice It Up: Adjust the chili powder based on your spice level preference. If you want more heat, try adding cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
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Freshness Matters: Serve your grilled cauliflower steaks right off the grill for the best taste and texture. Reheating can lead to a soggier consistency.
Make Ahead Options
These Mexican Street Cauliflower (Elote) steaks are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to savor their smoky flavors with ease during a busy week! You can prepare the cauliflower steaks by seasoning and oiling them up to 24 hours in advance; simply keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to grill, just remove them from the fridge and cook as instructed—there’s no need to bring them to room temperature. For the toppings, you can mix the mayonnaise with chili powder and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, just brush the prepped steaks with the creamy topping, add cotija cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for a delicious finish!
How to Store and Freeze Mexican Street Cauliflower (Elote)
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Fridge: Store leftover Mexican Street Cauliflower in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Be sure to let it cool slightly before sealing to prevent condensation.
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Freezer: For longer storage, place cooled cauliflower steaks in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently in the oven or on a skillet to maintain a tender texture.
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Serving Suggestions: For the best flavor, it’s recommended to serve freshly grilled. However, reheated steaks can still make a delicious addition to salads or wraps!
What to Serve with Mexican Street Cauliflower (Elote)?
To create a delicious meal that dazzles the senses, consider these delightful sides that pair beautifully with the smoky, creamy flavors of grilled cauliflower.
- Spicy Black Beans: Their hearty texture and savory spices complement the cauliflower, adding an extra layer of flavor to your meal.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: A refreshing, zesty side dish that enhances the vibrant notes of the elote while offering a soothing contrast in texture.
- Grilled Shrimp Tacos: Juicy shrimp with a hint of lime and spice are perfect for taco nights, bringing a delightful burst of flavor alongside the cauliflower.
- Corn Salad: A light salad with fresh corn, tomatoes, and cilantro that brightens up your plate and mirrors the Mexican street food theme.
- Avocado and Tomato Salad: Creamy avocado paired with juicy tomatoes adds freshness, balancing the richness of the cauliflower with a bright touch.
- Margaritas: A classic lime margarita brings a refreshing, tart contrast that elevates your meal experience.
- Churros: These sweet, cinnamon-sugar fried treats make for a delicious dessert that rounds out your meal with a delightful crunch to balance the savory flavors.
Mexican Street Cauliflower (Elote) Recipe FAQs
What kind of cauliflower should I choose for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for fresh cauliflower heads that are firm and heavy with tight, white florets. Avoid any heads that have dark spots or wilted leaves. If you can find cauliflower that’s organic, it’s even better for flavor and nutrient density.
How should I store leftover Mexican Street Cauliflower?
Very important! Store any leftover cauliflower steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow them to cool slightly before sealing to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat gently in the oven or on a skillet to retain that delicious texture.
Can I freeze Mexican Street Cauliflower?
Definitely! To freeze, first let the cooked cauliflower cool completely. Then, place the steaks in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the steaks in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat gently to keep them tender and flavorful.
What if my cauliflower steaks are sticking to the grill?
No worries at all! If you find your steaks are sticking, make sure to oil the grill grates thoroughly before cooking. If you forget this step, try using a wide spatula to gently loosen them. Another tip is to let them char for a couple of extra minutes; once they develop a nice crust, they should release more easily.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This low-carb cauliflower recipe is not just keto-friendly but also vegetarian. However, if you’re serving others, keep in mind the mayonnaise and cotija cheese may be allergens for some. You can always substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free option if needed or use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a similar flavor profile.
Can I adjust the spiciness of this recipe?
Very much so! The chili powder can be customized according to your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less or choose a mild chili powder. For an extra kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or switching to a spicier seasoning blend. After all, cooking is all about making it your own!
Mexican Street Cauliflower Elote: Flavorful Low Carb Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the grill to medium heat, about 10 minutes.
- Prepare the cauliflower by removing leaves and cutting into four thick steaks, about one inch thick.
- Brush oil on both sides of cauliflower steaks to prevent sticking.
- Grill the steaks over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, then flip and grill for another 5-6 minutes.
- For a softer texture, move steaks to indirect heat and grill covered for about 10 more minutes.
- Remove steaks and brush generously with mayonnaise.
- Top with chili powder, crumbled cotija cheese, and cilantro.
- Squeeze lime wedges over steaks and serve immediately.