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Perfectly Caramelized Mexican Roasted Cauliflower – Dairy Free! Recipe

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4.2 from 7 reviews

This Perfectly Caramelized Mexican Roasted Cauliflower is a simple, dairy-free dish bursting with bold flavors from chili powder, cumin, and fresh lime. Roasted to tender caramelized perfection, it’s topped with fresh cilantro, onion, avocado, and lime wedges for a vibrant, healthy side dish or snack that’s quick to prepare and sure to please.

  • Total Time: 30-36 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets (about 2 1/2 pounds)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Red or green onion, thinly sliced
  • Fresh lime wedges
  • Avocado, sliced or diced

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare Cauliflower: Cut the cauliflower into florets if you haven’t already. Place them into a large mixing bowl.
  3. Season Cauliflower: Add the olive or avocado oil, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper to the cauliflower florets. Toss well to ensure every piece is evenly coated with oil and spices.
  4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets out evenly on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced apart to allow for proper roasting and caramelization.
  5. Roast Cauliflower: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 20 to 26 minutes. Halfway through cooking, flip the florets to ensure even caramelization. Roast until the cauliflower is tender and beautifully caramelized. For extra crispiness, you may roast a few minutes longer.
  6. Serve: Remove from the oven and transfer the roasted cauliflower to a serving dish. Top with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced red or green onion, fresh lime wedges, and diced avocado as desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • If your cauliflower is smaller than 2 1/2 pounds, reduce the amount of oil, salt, and spices slightly, then adjust to taste after roasting.
  • For extra crispiness, allow the cauliflower to roast a few minutes beyond 26 minutes, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
  • This recipe is naturally dairy-free and can be made vegan by ensuring no animal-based products are added as toppings.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleaning easier.
  • Adjust chili powder quantity to your preferred spice level.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-26 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Gluten Free