Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

Name: Roasted Cauliflower Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste; 8 small corn or flour tortillas; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; Juice of 1 lime; Zest of 1 lime; Salt, to taste; 1 cup shredded cabbage or slaw mix; Chopped fresh cilantro; Diced avocado; Lime wedges

Highlighted under: International Plates

I love making Roasted Cauliflower Tacos for a quick and satisfying dinner. The way the cauliflower caramelizes in the oven brings out its natural sweetness, and when paired with fresh toppings, it creates a delightful meal. I often serve these tacos with a tangy lime crema and crunchy slaw, which add layers of flavor and texture. Whether for Taco Tuesday or just a cozy night in, these tacos never fail to impress both my family and guests. It's a comforting dish that's both simple and packed with flavor.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:41:35.392Z

When I first tried roasted cauliflower, I was amazed at how the baking process transformed it into something entirely different. The edges become crispy while the inside stays tender, making it an excellent filling for tacos. Experimenting with various spices helped me create the perfect blend that elevates the humble vegetable.

One of my favorite tricks is to toss the cauliflower with a touch of olive oil and smoked paprika before roasting. This gives a smoky depth that beautifully complements the freshness of the toppings. I took a bit of extra care with the lime crema, blending yogurt with lime juice and zest, which adds a zesty kick that ties the whole dish together.

Why You'll Love These Tacos
Crispy cauliflower with a smoky flavor
Zesty lime crema adds a creamy touch
Versatile and customizable with your favorite toppings

Understanding the Cauliflower

Choosing the right cauliflower is essential to achieving a well-balanced flavor in these tacos. Look for heads that are compact with tightly packed florets and vibrant green leaves. The freshness of the cauliflower will contribute significantly to its sweetness once roasted. I recommend avoiding cauliflower that has brown spots or wilting leaves, as these can indicate overripeness.

When cutting the cauliflower into florets, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Larger florets will take longer to roast and might end up soggy, while smaller ones may burn. I generally prefer pieces that are about 1 to 1.5 inches across, providing a good balance of crispiness and tenderness.

Flavor Enhancements

The combination of smoked paprika and ground cumin in this recipe is a game-changer. Smoked paprika adds depth with its woodsy flavor, while cumin introduces a warm earthiness. If you wish to kick the spice level up a notch, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder. These spices complement the cauliflower's natural sweetness wonderfully and create a savory profile that is hard to resist.

For an extra layer of flavor in the lime crema, try adding a finely minced garlic clove or a hint of jalapeño. This will not only enhance the creaminess but also provide a touch of heat that pairs well with the crunchy toppings. Adjust the ingredients based on your preference; cooking should be about personalizing flavors to match your palate.

Assembling and Storing Tacos

Assembly is key in making your Roasted Cauliflower Tacos visually appealing and delicious. Start by placing the cauliflower in the center of the tortilla to allow for easy wrapping. Make sure not to overfill them; a couple of spoonfuls of cauliflower with a handful of toppings is usually enough. This prevents any messy eating and keeps the tortillas intact.

If you have leftovers, store the components separately to maintain their texture. Roasted cauliflower can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The lime crema also holds up well; just stir before serving, as it may thicken. Reheat the cauliflower in the oven at a low temperature to crisp it up again before assembling.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Roasted Cauliflower Tacos:

For the Tacos

1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 small corn or flour tortillas

For the Lime Crema

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
Juice of 1 lime
Zest of 1 lime
Salt, to taste

For Toppings

1 cup shredded cabbage or slaw mix
Chopped fresh cilantro
Diced avocado
Lime wedges

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the cooking process for a smooth experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Roasted Cauliflower Tacos:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Cauliflower

In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets, olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss until the cauliflower is evenly coated.

Roast the Cauliflower

Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden and crispy, stirring halfway through.

Make the Lime Crema

While the cauliflower roasts, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, lime zest, and salt in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Warm the Tortillas

Lightly heat the tortillas in a skillet over medium heat until warm and pliable.

Assemble the Tacos

To assemble, place a generous amount of roasted cauliflower on each tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage, diced avocado, cilantro, and a drizzle of lime crema. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your flavorful Roasted Cauliflower Tacos with your choice of toppings!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different toppings like pickled onions or hot sauce to personalize your tacos. You can also use other vegetables alongside the cauliflower for a heartier filling.

Serving Suggestions

These Roasted Cauliflower Tacos shine with a variety of side dishes and beverages. For a refreshing contrast, a simple tomato salad or spiced black beans can enhance the meal's nutritional value. You might also consider serving a mild salsa or a mango chutney, as the sweetness can balance the smoky flavors of the roasted cauliflower and spices.

I also enjoy pairing these tacos with a light beer or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity in the wine complements the zingy lime crema, while the beer’s carbonation refreshes the palate between bites. Feel free to get creative with drink pairings that suit your taste!

Dietary Modifications

This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan. Simply substitute the plain Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative such as cashew crema or coconut yogurt. Both will provide a similar creamy texture without compromising on flavor, and they bring their own unique notes to the dish.

If you’re looking for gluten-free options, opt for corn tortillas instead of flour. They are also lower in calories and add a delightful corn flavor that pairs well with the roasted cauliflower. Additionally, if you don’t have cumin or smoked paprika on hand, a taco seasoning mix can serve as a convenient substitute.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these tacos vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the Greek yogurt in the lime crema with a non-dairy yogurt alternative.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can use bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture.

→ How do I store leftover tacos?

Keep the roasted cauliflower and toppings separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the cauliflower in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I prepare the fill-ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast the cauliflower and make the lime crema a day ahead. Just warm everything up before serving.