Ingredients

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

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

1/3 cup crumbled Cotija cheese

Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your grill to 375-400°F (190-204°C). Place the cauliflower florets into a disposable aluminum pan and season with ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp chili powder, ¼ tsp paprika, and ½ tsp garlic powder. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Place the pan on the grill and cook or smoke for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and starts to char and caramelize.

Step 3: If using an oven instead, bake the seasoned cauliflower at 400°F (204°C), stirring occasionally, for 30-35 minutes until tender and golden brown.

Step 4: While the cauliflower cooks, prepare the crema by combining mayonnaise, sour cream, ¼ tsp chili powder, ¼ tsp cumin, finely minced garlic, ¼ tsp salt, and lime juice in a bowl. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Once the cauliflower is done, transfer it to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the crema, then sprinkle with crumbled Cotija cheese. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra smokiness, add a few drops of chipotle hot sauce to the crema.

If Cotija cheese is unavailable, feta or queso fresco make good substitutes.

To make it vegan, swap mayonnaise and sour cream for plant-based alternatives and omit the cheese.

Grilling the cauliflower on skewers can make for easier turning and presentation.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?

Fresh cauliflower is preferred because it holds up better on the grill or in the oven. Frozen cauliflower tends to release more moisture and can become mushy rather than nicely charred.

Is it necessary to use a disposable aluminum pan when grilling?

Using a disposable aluminum pan makes cleanup easier and prevents cauliflower from falling through the grill grates. Alternatively, you can use a grill-safe roasting pan or a cast iron pan.