![Holding up a vegan taco made with roasted cauliflower and adobo romesco](https://minimalistbaker.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/DELICIOUS-Roasted-Cauliflower-Tacos-with-Adobo-Romesco-30-min-healthy-SO-flavorful-vegan-glutenfree-plantbased-cauliflower-tacos-recipe-6.jpg)
On a recent trip to Kansas City, we ate at Port Fonda and I had the most delicious roasted cauliflower tacos.
I studied them. I inspected them. I devoured them. And then I did what I always do. I came home and tried to make an inspired version for all of you. Let’s do this!
![Baking sheet filled with freshly roasted cauliflower](https://minimalistbaker.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/DELICIOUS-Roasted-Cauliflower-Tacos-with-Adobo-Romesco-30-min-healthy-SO-flavorful-vegan-glutenfree-plantbased-cauliflower-tacos-recipe-3.jpg)
This is an easy, 30-minute recipe with smoky, roasted cauliflower and a spicy romesco-inspired sauce*. It’s also plant-based, gluten-free, and oil-free optional and grain-free optional. I do a lot for you people! I must like you a lot (wink, wink).
While the cauliflower is roasting, make your sauce, which is comprised of roasted almonds, roasted and fresh garlic, fire-roasted tomatoes, lime juice, spices, chipotle peppers*, and a little maple syrup. The result is a smoky, tangy, spicy, well-balanced sauce that’s thick and creamy and perfect for these cauliflower tacos.
*Note: you can learn more about romesco sauce here, chipotle peppers in adobo here, and the origin of tacos here.
![Blender filled with almonds, spices, and other ingredients for vegan Adobo Romesco](https://minimalistbaker.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/DELICIOUS-Roasted-Cauliflower-Tacos-with-Adobo-Romesco-30-min-healthy-SO-flavorful-vegan-glutenfree-plantbased-cauliflower-tacos-recipe.jpg)
![A bowl of fresh Adobo Romesco for Roasted Cauliflower Tacos](https://minimalistbaker.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/DELICIOUS-Roasted-Cauliflower-Tacos-with-Adobo-Romesco-30-min-healthy-SO-flavorful-vegan-glutenfree-plantbased-cauliflower-tacos-recipe-2.jpg)
I hope you all LOVE these tacos! They’re:
Smoky
Spicy
Savory
Satisfying
Easy to make
Versatile
& So delicious
This would make the perfect healthy, satisfying weeknight meal when you don’t have much time to cook. The cauliflower could be roasted ahead of time and reheated in the oven or stovetop if you’re short on time. And the sauce lasts up to 1 week in the refrigerator, so it can also easily be made ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week.
If you’re into Mexican-inspired meals, also be sure to check out our 5-Ingredient Ginger Beer Margaritas, Watermelon Margaritas, 1-Pot Vegan Barbacoa, Black Bean Butternut Squash Enchiladas, Mexican Quinoa Salad with Orange Lime Dressing, Quinoa Black Bean Salad Cups, Vegan Mexican 7-Layer Dip, Easy Red Salsa, Garlicky Guacamole with Plantain Chips, 3-Ingredient Plantain Tortillas, Roasted Jalapeño Vegan Queso, and Mexican Green Chili Veggie Burgers!
If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo @minimalistbaker on Instagram so we can see. Cheers, friends!
![Wood plank with a line of gluten-free vegan Roasted Cauliflower Tacos with Adobo Romesco](https://minimalistbaker.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/DELICIOUS-Roasted-Cauliflower-Tacos-with-Adobo-Romesco-30-min-healthy-SO-flavorful-vegan-glutenfree-plantbased-cauliflower-tacos-recipe-8.jpg)
*Note: quantity of cauliflower doubled on 10/09/2018.
Roasted Cauliflower Tacos with Chipotle Romesco
Ingredients
CAULIFLOWER
- 2 small heads cauliflower (chopped into bite-sized pieces // smaller pieces roast more quickly!)
- 2-4 Tbsp avocado or coconut oil (if avoiding oil, omit or sub with water)
- 3 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp sea salt
SAUCE
- 4 small-medium cloves garlic (skin on)
- 1/4 cup raw almonds
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced fire-roasted tomatoes (drained)
- 1-2 medium cloves raw garlic (peeled)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (or sub water)
- 1 medium lime, juiced (~3 Tbsp or 45 ml as original recipe is written)
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp sea salt (plus more to taste)
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup (plus more to taste)
- 1-2 whole chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (more for spicier sauce)
FOR SERVING
- 12-15 whole corn tortillas (to keep grain-free, use my Plantain Tortillas)
- Lime juice / wedges
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
- Thinly sliced red cabbage (optional)
- Pepitas (optional)
- Sliced avocado (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (204 C) and add cauliflower to 2 large baking sheets (use more baking sheets if increasing batch size). Add oil (or omit/sub water), cumin, chili powder, paprika, and salt. Toss to combine and roast on the bottom rack for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and tender.
- To a separate baking sheet, add raw almonds and the 4 unpeeled garlic cloves (amount as original recipe is written // adjust if altering batch size). Roast on the center rack for 10-12 minutes, checking at the 8 minute mark. If the almonds are dark brown and cracking, remove from the oven to avoid burning, but continue cooking garlic until light golden brown and slightly softened. Remove from oven and set aside.
- While cauliflower finishes roasting, add drained, fire-roasted tomatoes to a high-speed blender along with almonds, roasted garlic (peeled), raw garlic (peeled), oil (or water), lime juice, paprika, cumin, salt, maple syrup, and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
- Blend on high until creamy and smooth, scraping down sides as needed. Taste and adjust flavor as needed, adding more lime for acidity, garlic for kick/zing, salt for saltiness, paprika or cumin for smokiness, maple syrup to offset heat/add sweetness, or chipotle peppers for more heat.
- To serve, warm tortillas in the microwave or in the oven directly on the still-warm oven racks until pliable. Then add 1-2 Tbsp of the romesco sauce and a generous portion of cauliflower. Serve as is or garnish with lime juice/wedges, cilantro, cabbage, and/or pepitas (optional).
- Best when fresh. Store leftover sauce in the refrigerator up to 1 week (or 1 month in the freezer), and the cauliflower in the refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat cauliflower in a 350-degree F (176 C) oven until warm (best when fresh).
Video
Notes
*Prep time does not indicate total hands-on prep time, but also includes prep completed while other items are cooking.
Lanna says
Dana – I pretty much migrate to your site every day and pick out supper. Everything you make is EXCELLENT. But these tacos? Almost brought tears. Phenomenal. They will forever be on our meal roster. Signed with love from Canada.
Amazing! We so love to hear this. Thanks for the lovely compliments and wonderful review, Lanna! xo
Sherri Neil says
These were the bomb. Granted every taco idea you have given me has turned out great, but seriously that romesco sauce was insane. Thanks again Dana for developing recipes that are healthier and always delish.
Yay! We love to hear this. Thanks as always for the lovely review, Sherri! xo
Gabrielle Sedor says
Quick and easy! I didn’t have almonds so I improvised with raw pepitos. Still delicious! I can’t wait to put the extra romesco over everything this week.
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Gabrielle! Thank you for the lovely review! xo
Gordon says
Delicious recipe. A bit more time intensive than I thought it would be, but turned out great!
Thank you for sharing, Gordon!
Pat says
Delicious. Added some match stick radishes but otherwise followed the recipe as written. Served it with the black bean quinoa orange salad as have a family of big eaters. Everyone loved.
So lovely! Thank you for sharing, Pat! xo
Susie says
Made these tacos tonight, they were a HUGE HIT!!! Everyone loved them. Like most others, the sauce was a big blast of flavor. How can you store the leftover sauce? How long will it last in the fridge, or can you freeze it?
Amazing! We’re so glad to hear it, Susie! The leftover sauce can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator up to 1 week (or 1 month in the freezer). Hope that helps!
Dora says
Made the tacos and added toppings such as quick pickled carrot strips, pickled cabbage, pepitas and so on… Tacos were great but the sauce is the star. It turned out super tasty, followed everything exactly but didn’t have the peppers in adobo sauce so I used 2 jalapeños from the jar. Delicious.
Thanks for the lovely recipe!
Yum – those topping sound great! Thank you for the lovely review, Dora! xo
Nan Gesche says
Even my friend who say they don’t like vegetables love these! To be safe I used some of the cauliflower mix with some diced chicken, which worked well. For the sauce, I threw in three chipotle peppers in adobe as we like a bit of extra spice. The added smokiness was a hit.
Woohoo! We’re so glad to hear it, Nan. Thanks for sharing! xo
Mary S says
My go to veggie tacos! The cauliflower is tasty on its own, but it’s the sauce that makes these next level. It makes quite a bit though, so you can easily freeze half for next time. I’m also going to experiment with it and see if I can mix it with Mayo and transform it into patatas bravas sauce.
Thanks so much for the lovely review, Mary. We are so glad you enjoy these tacos! And love the patatas bravas sauce idea! xo
Lori says
Dana, I love ALL your recipes. They are solid, well-designed and I always refer to your site when someone is looking for a tasty, foolproof plant-based recipe. Simple, smart and always a good return on the flavour for the effort. And I have your cookbook.
I’ve been following you for years however, this is the recipe that inspired me to leave a comment and rating. And it’s because of the Romesco sauce. I can’t stop thinking about it. It’s going to go on pasta, it’s going to be a dip, and of course it’s a sauce for anything almost, steamed veggies, fried tofu… Brilliant!
Aw, thanks so much for taking the time to write a review, Lori! We love hearing all of this! xoxo!
Nicole says
Loved this! The roasted cauliflower especially, and the sauce was great too. I didn’t have almonds and subbed walnuts for the sauce, and skipped the raw garlic. Served with green cabbage, feta, pan-toasted pepitas, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges. I also added some seasoned black beans in with the cauliflower in the last 10 minutes in the oven. Will definitely make this again.
Amazing! Thanks so much for sharing, Nicole! xoxo
Katie says
These are some of the best tacos I have had! Even my meat-loving fiancé keeps asking for them!
Woohoo! We’re so glad you both enjoy them, Katie. Thanks so much for sharing! xo
Lindsay says
Delicious… The recipe is perfect and everyone loved them.
Woohoo! We’re so glad to hear it. Thanks for sharing, Lindsay! xo
Monta says
Delicious and easy! Added chickpeas when I roasted the cauliflower and topped the tacos off with an onion cilantro mix and a slice of avocado. Husband did think the cauliflower was a bit on the dry side but he isn’t a big fan of cauliflower and my daughter and I thought it was damn near perfect
We’re so glad you enjoyed it! Love your modifications, too. Thanks for sharing! xo
Rich R says
Dana keeps knocking it out of the park! I added some left over fire roasted tomatoes to the tacos and they were on point. Plenty of sauce left over I’m gonna try on rice and some gluten free pasta.
Aw, thanks, Rich! We’re so glad you’re enjoying our recipes!
Clara says
The romesco sauce was insanely delicious! These tacos are a great vegan option.
Yay! We’re so glad you enjoyed them, Clara. Thanks so much for the lovely review! xo
Pri says
Wow, just wow. This recipe is next level delish. I made the cauli in the air fryer and added a bit of corn starch in addition to the spices listed. I also didn’t have time to roast the garlic and almonds and used walnuts instead. The sauce is SO good!
Aw, we’re so glad you enjoyed this one, Pri! Thanks so much for sharing! xo
Sonya says
This is my favorite recipe for cauliflower tacos. The sauce is flavorful and the tacos are filling. I usually add an avocado to add another depth of flavor.
Thanks for sharing!
We’re so glad you enjoy this recipe, Sonya! Thanks so much for the lovely review! xo
Denise says
Love, Love, Love these tacos!! They were absolutely amazing. We had them for dinner on Sunday night, but we didn’t have almonds for the sauce; used almond butter instead. So good! We have left over sauce, so purchased more cauliflower today; plan to have tacos again for dinner tonight.
We’re so glad you enjoy them, Denise! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Sbakes says
I’ve made these a few times and they are always amazing. I made them last night using homemade corn tortillas (so easy!) and WOW!!!!!! They made an already amazing meal even better. Served with shredded purple cabbage and avocado. Lots of flavor and texture. A six-star restaurant-worthy meal for sure.
Amazing!! Thanks for sharing!
Jenni says
Could you omit the adobo if you can’t do spicy?
Hi Jenni, You can, but it adds smokiness and flavor so we’d suggest modifying other ingredients such as increasing smoked paprika and/or cumin. Hope that helps!
Jenni says
Thank you!!!
alei says
Hello, i made this recipe last night and i have to say it is really good and tasty! being mexican I was curious to see how will the salsa turn out with so many different ingredients and it was worth it, all the flavors blend together! I only had slivered almonds so I used those other than that followed the recipe. The only regret i should have made extra there was no left overs. Excellent recipes!!!! easy to follow.
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Alei. Thanks so much for sharing! xo
candice says
Absolutely delicious! i did not have the chipotle peppers in adobo but I subbed chipotle and smoked paprika seasoning. This sauce is amazing! I printed this recipe. I will be remaking this for sure. The tacos were so good and I will be reusing this sauce as a side for everything else! It IS SOOO GOOD!!!!
Yay! We’re so glad it turned out well! Thanks so much for sharing, Candice! xo
Montana says
hello! I really want to make this but here in the UK it’s not super easy to get your hands on chipotle peppers in adobo sauce without ordering from specialist shops online / buying on amazon, which I’m keen to avoid. Are there any good subs or does it only really work with the chipotle peppers?
Hi Montana, it’s a pretty key flavor here, so we’d recommend using if possible! The next best options would be dried, rehydrated chipotle peppers, a little bit of chipotle chili powder, or more smoked paprika. Hope that helps!
Montana says
Thanks! I ended up buying chipotle peppers in adobo sauce online and made this dish this evening! Turned out so well! What would you recommend doing with leftover sauce?
Also any recommendations for what to do with the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce I have leftover too?
We’re so glad you enjoyed it! The leftover sauce is delicious with breakfast potatoes, scrambles, or on bowls. We like to freeze the leftover chipotle peppers + adobo sauce in ice cube trays, then transfer to a sealed container in the freezer.
Rebecca says
Montana, I am a Texan living in the UK. I find that chipotle paste (which is often sold in Tesco, M&S) is an easy sub if you don’t want to go through the trouble of buying online next time. That said, I do have a few cans of peppers in reserve!!
Karen Track says
The family made this dish and it was amazing, 11 out of 10 rating. It’s going in our collection of favorite recipes. We made homemade tortillas, added guacamole and refried black beans to the tacos for additional protein. Didn’t miss the meat at all and was very filling. Thank you for sharing this recipe- we loved it!
Yay! Thanks so much for the lovely review, Karen! xo
Kelly says
We made this tonight (a vegan and a non vegan couple) and both loved it! Made it exactly by the directions and no changes needed. That sauce specifically is going in the recipe index. Delicious!
Thanks so much for the lovely review, Kelly. We are so glad everyone enjoyed it! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Sowji T says
Just made it. Great recipe, it’s a keeper. Thanks for sharing.
Yay! Thanks for the lovely review!
Sharon says
Wonderful recipe. The sweet tangy spicyness of the chipotle romesco makes this receipe – and it was so easy to prepare, and plenty left over. I only used one head of cauliflower and sub’d a cup of portobello mushrooms. Along with El Milagro Maiz corn tortillas that were still warm on the shelf when I bought them – this was fantastic!
Love the portobello addition, Sharon! Thanks so much for sharing! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Julia says
My new favourite sauce!
Whoop! Thanks for sharing, Julia!
Erin E says
This romesco sauce is one of my most favorite things to eat. I eat with all types of tacos, taco salad, as a dip, or quite frankly just on it’s own by the spoonful. THANK YOU!
Yay! Thanks for sharing, Erin!
Lisa says
This is one of my all-time favorites! I love it with 2 chipotle peppers, and a clove or two less raw garlic. The recipe makes way more sauce than I use on the tacos, but the leftover sauce is great on eggs, or on a wrap… Dana, I’m curious what else you use the sauce on/in? I love to make this within the same couple of weeks as the 1 Pot Smoky Lentil Vegan Taco “Meat” so I can use up all of the chipotle peppers in the can- that’s another one of my go-to recipes. Thank you!
We’re so glad you enjoy it, Lisa! Thanks for sharing! The sauce is super versatile- it goes well with roasted potatoes (or other veggies), on grain/bean/veggie bowls, and (vegan) scrambled eggs. Hope that helps!
sandra forte says
WOW OH WOW!! Mexican Heaven on a plate. The sauce is yummo.
Thanks Dana your recipes leave me speechless time and time again
xx
Aw, we’re so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for sharing, Sandra! xo
Charles Deetz ;) says
Just used the seasoning part of this recipe, relied on Herdez pablano salsa to to it. The seasoning is perfect, will make a big batch and stash for other uses. My daughter thinks the seasoning was similar to Internet Shaquile (YouTube) used in a chickpeas recipe.
Thanks for sharing!
Karyn says
This chipotle romesco sauce has become a fan favorite in our house! We love it on top of eggs on toast in addition to on these tacos!
Yay! We’re so glad you enjoy it, Karyn! Thanks for sharing!
Chloe says
How would you calculate the calories if you choose not to use tortillas?
Hi Chloe, the carbs and calories would be less without tortillas. You can use a nutrition tool such as cronometer for more precise estimates.
Stacie says
I absolutely loved this! This is a keeper, so flavorful. I love the Pepitas it’s perfect amount of crunch.
We’re so glad you enjoyed them, Stacie! Thanks so much for the lovely review! xo
Alanna says
Hello, can I use a substitute for the almonds?
Hi Alanna, other readers have subbed cashews, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds. Hope that helps!
VICKY says
These are delicious! And easy and fast to make, we had a great dinner! I will definitely be making this over and over again, thank you!
Thanks for sharing, Vicky!!
Coralee says
This was wonderful! I didn’t think I had enough cauliflower on hand so I roasted some sliced Portobellos beside the cauliflower with the same sauce and had two kinds of tacos. The sauce was amazing and I really liked it with avocado slices on top. Restaurant quality!
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Coralee! Thanks so much for sharing! xo
Anushree says
Going to make this tomorrow! Have not been able to find fire roasted tomatoes. What can I use instead pls? Thanks so much
Hi Anushree, we’d suggest roasted red peppers or diced tomatoes + more smoked paprika. Hope that helps!
Allegra says
This was delicious! I adjusted the sauce a bit to work with what I had on hand, subbing cashews for almonds and 1/2 a serrano pepper for the chipotle peppers, and ommitting the tomaotes. I added in some black beans to the tacos too. The whole meal was fansastic– super flavorful and filling! Caulifour (instead of meat) was a big hit for my family, and the sauce disappeard in an instant. Will definitely make again. Thank you!
We’re so glad you and your family enjoyed this one! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Carolyn Archer says
Wow, wow, wow! First, you need to know that I live in Hatch, New Mexico, the undisputed “Chile Capital of the World.” We have some form of chile with pretty much every meal. I’ve eaten a lot of chile. I’ve eaten tons of salsa. Now, I was unfamiliar with Romesco sauces until today, but this stuff was incredible! (I did sub roasted homegrown tomatoes for the canned.) I wasn’t sure what to expect with the unusual combination of ingredients, but I was smitten with the first taste! Love it!!! It was the perfect accompaniment for the tacos, but I will be using this romesco again on many other things! Fantastico!
Aw, yay! We’re SO glad you enjoyed this recipe, Carolyn! Thanks so much for sharing! xo
Lisa Peters says
Where have you been all my life??!! These are unbelievable. So delicious and flavor packed. Only changes: toasting the pumpkin seeds and using homemade guacamole. Thank you!!!!!
Aw, thanks so much for the lovely review, Lisa! xo
Cass Doolittle says
This was delicious. I served to three kids and three adults and everyone loved it. Great flavors. The saucy business was really yummy.
We’re so glad everyone enjoyed it, Cass! Thanks so much for sharing! xo
Kaleb says
Super good and flavorful. Girlfriend and I both loved this recipe. Only problem is it’s too spicy for us. Will be adding more maple syrup next time.
Thanks for the review, Kaleb! Glad you both enjoyed despite the spiciness!
sam says
I’ve made this sauce a half dozen times its so delicious. Perfect to elevate peppers & onions, rice & beans or any Mexican food.
For one person I usually freeze half which works well for me :)
Whoop! We’re so glad you enjoy it, Sam! Thanks for sharing!
Jennifer says
These are delicious! And that sauce. Yum!
Whoop! Thanks for sharing, Jennifer! xo
Stacy says
So delicious! I could eat them everyday! Thank you for this amazing recipe!
Whoop! Thanks, Stacy!
Melanie says
Make these immediately! I don’t often leave reviews (ever), but these are so damn good. We’re a nut-free house, so I subbed toasted sunflower seeds for the almonds. I topped with tofu feta, red cabbage and lime . Currently trying to figure what else I can douse in the romesco. My 2 and 4 year olds both devoured them. 11/10
Yay! We’re so glad everyone enjoyed them! Thanks so much for the lovely review, Melanie!
Ericka says
This recipe was so fast and delicious! I had almost all of the ingredients on hand. The only sub I had to make was cashews for almonds because I was out. Still wonderful!! I will make this again!
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Ericka! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Theresa Bess says
That sauce! Whoa! It was so tasty! We garnished with quick pickled red onions, avocado, and pepita seed. Make this sauce even if you don’t make the tacos; use it as dressing, dip for roasted veg or quesadillas, or even as a unique salsa. 😋
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Theresa =) Thanks so much for sharing!
KELLY WEBSTER says
I didn’t change a thing! These were delicious and even my 2 cauliflower haters loved these and have 4 tacos each!
Whoop! Thanks for sharing, Kelly!
MrsCollazo says
So yummy! I don’t EVER leave reviews but definitely had to for this one! We made a lime creama to top them and literally had them for dinner two nights in a row because they were so good. Top 10 ever for sure.
Whoop! We’re so glad you enjoyed them! Thanks so much for the lovely review =)
Carly Chagas says
Highly recommend!! They were probably the best tacos I’ve ever made. We added a tiny bit more salt to the sauce, but other than that stuck to the recipe.
We garnished with red cabbage, lime, guac and feta cheese. The feta cheese really complimented this dish well!
Whoop! Thanks so much for the lovely review, Carly!
Helen Sanchez says
I’ve made this a couple of times now. I love, love, love the romesco sauce. I added lime to the cauliflower before I posted them the second time around and I like the flavor it added. I highly recommend this recipe.
We’re so glad you enjoy this recipe, Helen! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Lily says
Can you use honey instead of maple? And do the almonds have to be raw? I have some that are already roasted can I just skip the step of roasting them?
Yes and sure!
Stephanie says
This dish was so great – I can’t wait to make it again! My boyfriend and I loved the sauce especially, which really kicked it up a notch. (We added the sauce to an omelette for breakfast this morning, and thinking about sandwiches and other dishes we can use it for). For the tacos, we roasted zucchini along with the cauliflower, and added black beans for protein. LOVE! Thanks for all the great recipes, Kate! You’ve been a staple in our kitchen these last few months, and have made our meals a lot more interesting!
We’re so glad you both enjoyed it, Stephanie! And yes- that sauce is so versatile. It would be great on bowls as well. Thank you so much for your kind words and lovely review! xo
Jo says
Just made this recipe with my partner! We only had one cauliflower head so after roasting we mixed in some similarly seasoned pinto beans to fill it out and add protein. Delicious! I will say that the garlic took about 20 more minutes to roast than the almonds, and we ended up drizzling it with olive oil and upping oven temp to 425 to get it going faster. We served with radish, cherry tomatoes, diced brussel sprout, and avocado as well as homemade corn tortillas. Would make again!
Thanks for sharing your experience, Jo! Love all the veggie additions!
Lori says
Wow. I love these. They were a bit of work and totally worth the effort. Now that I have done it once I can organize better and they will be easier to make. I made your handmade two ingredient corn tortilla shells and they made a remarkable difference. They are tender and add flavour without stealing the scene – never using store bought again. I omitted the raw garlic (personal preference) and added a bit extra chipotle in adobo. Winner – Cannot wait to make them again. I posted a pic on insta
Aw, we’re so glad you enjoyed them, Lori! Thank you so much for sharing! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
CN says
This recipe is perfect just the way it is. The tacos are delicious and deeply satisfying.
We’re so glad you enjoyed them! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Sally says
This is one of the best plant based taco recipes my partner and I have ever had! We recently cooked this for a group of our friends. They were skeptical at first, but were soon won over! I had pickled radishes, avocado, and mango salsa for toppings. My meat eater friends are now wanting more cauliflower tacos! Thank you for the mouth watering recipe!
Whoop! Thanks so much for sharing, Sally!
Alicia says
Delicious recipe and super easy! I also made Minimalist Bakers quick pickled red onion recipe. Served the tacos with sautéd yellow peppers, pickled onion, avocado and cilantro. I froze the leftover sauce to use when I have more cauliflower on hand. Thanks for sharing this wonderful recipe!
Sounds like an amazing combo! Thanks so much for the lovely review, Alicia! xo
Divya Soni says
Sauce is the key .. love the recipe ! Thanks
Thanks for sharing, Divya! xo
Shal says
I would love to try this recipe but allergic to the nuts. Any suggestions for substitutions?
We’d say just leave them out!
Kerry says
Delicious! I really enjoyed these tacos. I used olive oil as it was what I had on hand but is there a particular reason to use coconut or avocado oil?
Hi Kerry, olive oil works too! Avocado oil is recommended due to its higher smoke point.
Taylor Gamache says
Omigosh I’ve died an gone to heaven! Delicious. This sauce is out of this world! I’m gonna put it on alllllll the tacos!
Thanks so much for the lovely review, Taylor. We are so glad you enjoyed it! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Simon says
I’ve been lucky enough to travel to Mexico numerous times. These tacos are as good (perhaps better…) as any street tacos anywhere. You simply MUST try them! Thankyou for this amazing recipe :)
Whoop! We’re so glad you enjoy them, Simon!
Celia says
The flavor was EXCELLENT. The first bite transported me to the taco’s world, sitting in the passenger’s seat as the taco popped wheelies. I did worry if the dish would be filling enough, but after two hearty tacos I already felt full (I still had a third because it was that good). 7 out of 5 stars! There was a ton of sauce left, and I’d add a third chipotle in adobo for even more heat next time. My steak-loving boyfriend exclaimed, “I don’t even miss meat! It wouldn’t be right in this.” This is going in my forever recipe book. Thank you and Bravo, Minimalist Baker!
Ha- love it! Thanks so much for sharing, Celia!
Lily says
Absolutely amazing, the romesco is out of this world. DO NOT use two heads of cauliflower unless you are trying to eat for a week, way too much!
Thanks for sharing your experience, Lily!
Taylor says
Really delicious and flavorful! Thank you!
I have a tree nut allergy, so toasted Pepitas instead and it turned out great.
We also subbed out a dried chipotle pepper since we didn’t have the chipotle in adobo sauce on-hand and it gave us the same smoky flavor and heat.
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Taylor! Thanks so much for sharing!
Kelly says
Hi there, I was unable to purchase fire roasted tomatoes so I bought regular peeled plum tomatoes, what should I do to get a similar flavour?
Thank you!
Hi Kelly, that should be fine! Maybe taste test and adjust as needed, adding a little more adobo sauce for a smoky flavor.
Rachel says
Made this twice now and we cannot stop craving it! Such a delicious recipe, quick and easy to follow instructions, and the perfect ingredients to go with my first ever homemade corn tortillas! Will definitely be our go-to taco for the foreseeable future!
We’re so glad you enjoy it, Rachel! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Kimberly says
DELICIOUS! I threw this cauliflower and sauce on top of cilantro-lime rice, alongside seasoned black beans, sliced avocado, Mexican slaw, and a dollop of plain Greek yogurt. My hubby said it was better than anything he could have gotten at a restaurant. Thanks so much for an amazing and versatile recipe!
Love the combination, Kimberly! Thanks so much for for sharing! xo
Stephen D says
I’ve done 10 or so of your recipes, and this one stands out as delicious. With the chipotle taste the sauce is different and unique. The roasted almonds and garlic also add to the smokiness. The roasted cauliflower has a satisfying meatiness to it inside the taco. Love it. Love it.
We’re so glad you enjoy this recipe, Stephen! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Mary Jane says
This was so delicious with the perfect amount of smoky flavor! We didn’t have almonds on hand so I used cashews instead and it was great. Now I just need to decide how to use the leftover sauce. It’s so good I don’t want to waste it!
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Mary Jane! The leftover sauce is delicious in grain & veggie bowls- or almost anything really =)
Shirley says
delicious!! Normally I wouldn’t think to use cauliflower inside tacos. But I love veggies and this is a brilliant idea. The sauce tastes so good. Love it. Gonna use the extra sauce from this as a dip for sweet potato fries.
We’re so glad you enjoyed them, Shirley! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
MSB says
Hi! This looks delicious. I am allergic to nuts and wondering if I can substitute beans for the nuts in the sauce. Do you think that would work? Thanks!
Another reader mentioned using sunflower seeds with success, but we haven’t tried that and can’t guarantee results. Let us know if you give it a try!
Taylor says
I just made with toasted Pepitas and it turned out great! One of my favorite nut alternatives :)
Debra P. says
This vegan recipe is easy, healthy, and delicious. It instantly became a favorite at our house. We get about two meals (three tacos each) out it for our three person household and always end up with extra sauce (which is so unbelievably simple to make and yummy). We are slowly shifting from vegetarian to as vegan as possible so this was just a great find.
xoxo!
Sarah Drake says
AMAZING!! This was a pretty quick assembly/blend and the roasting of the almonds and garlic was super simple.
My husband and I LOVED these. He doesn’t eat cauliflower much but said even though it isn’t a taste/texture he is used to, he would rate this 4.5 and was quite impressed. I am grateful for a quality vegan recipe that is full of flavor and dimension.
We enjoyed fresh squeezed limes and red cabbage on top!
They are delicious, satisfying, and refreshing :)
The sauce would also go well on fish tacos or over some dirty tacos!
Thanks for this tasty one!
Thanks so much for sharing your experience, Sarah! We’re so glad you both enjoyed them!
Emily M says
This was my first time trying cauliflower tacos and WOW! Will definitely be adding to the rotation. The sauce is amazing, I added an extra chipotle pepper and it had a great kick! The avocado and red cabbage added great texture. Boyfriend approved!
Yay! We’re so glad you both enjoyed them, Emily! xo
Brisa says
this recipe is soOo dank like wow the flavor is so *chef’s kiss*
SO yummy.
(the first time I made it, I didn’t have chipotle on me so I added a bit more smoked paprika and achiote powder and it still came out good.
but the second time?? I used chipotle and wOw amazing…!)
please try this. <3
We’re so glad you enjoy it, Brisa! xo
Claire says
Absolutely delicious! We’ve made this recipe a few times and it never disappoints. We didn’t have coconut or avocado oil at the ready so we used olive oil, which worked perfectly. Also, we opted out of the raw garlic and just used the roasted the second time around for yummy results. If you find it spicy, sliced avocado is an awesome, creamy addition!
Barbara says
This is one of my favorite meals! I’m obsessed with this dish! The flavors dance in your mouth.
Sweet, spicey, tangy, creamy! I could eat this multiple days in a row. The sauce recipe makes a good quantity so you’ll have leftovers and it’s so good you could literally put it on anything and it would be good. It’s filling, satisfying and you don’t feel like you just had a meat-free meal. Try some pickled red onions on top as well for an extra flavor booster.
Thanks so much for the lovely review, Barbara. We are so glad you enjoy this recipe! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Barbara says
Oops, forgot my star rating! I’d give it a 6 if there was an option.
Thanks Barbara =)
Dianne says
This is amazing! My hubby was very skeptical about a meatless dinner. And he had to admit that they were really good. We can’t wait to think of ways to use the extra sauce! Oh and I made this ahead of time and it was an easy weeknight meal. Thanks!
We’re so glad you both enjoyed it, Dianne! Thanks so much for sharing!
Devon says
Omg, incredible!! I didn’t have fire roasted tomatoes on hand, so I used a couple of large red bell peppers that I broiled in the sauce – unreal. Thanks so much for the recipe!
Jacqueline says
One of the best dishes I’ve made/tasted! Stupendous!
xoxo!
Susan Dannenberg says
OMG! Sooo good! Worth the time, and actually pretty quick to make. I used Trader Joes lightly salted roasted almonds, just roasted the cauliflower and the garlic. Had all the ingredients on hand in my Coronavirus prepared kitchen. Yum, yum, yum!
Thanks so much for the lovely review, Susan. We are so glad you enjoyed this recipe! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Lauren says
A new Minimalist Baker fave! I subbed brazil nuts based on my almond allergy, and it worked beautifully. Love the spice and smokey flavors.
Whoop! We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Lauren! Thanks for sharing!
Kris says
This recipe tastes so good. The sauce is out of this world good! I used cashews, and a few walnuts and pecans too. I omitted the raw garlic from the sauce as many suggested. I didn’t have maple syrup so substituted honey. Great flavor. I roasted the cauliflower as suggested but added one well chopped – almost minced- portobello mushroom and a bit of minced onion. It turned out perfect. We topped the tacos with sliced red onions. Delicious.
Whoop! We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Kris! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Abra says
My Minimalist Baker all time favorite!! This recipe is SO GOOD. Simple and delicious. The sauce makes a lot, but can be frozen for later, or used as a dip for chips or on a sandwich, etc. etc. etc. I top it with sliced red cabbage and cilantro. I love avocado, so I tried that too, but found that I didn’t really taste it with all the other flavors. Highly recommend! Thank you Minimalist Baker!
Whoop! Thanks for sharing, Abra!
Colleen Vos says
Great! Especially loved it with Greek yogurt and avocado. Thanks for sharing.
Kookie Costa says
These were terrific! The sauce and cauliflower pair super well! I ran out of smoked paprika for the sauce and just used regular paprika. They had the nicest, well-bodied taste. Very good, easy to follow recipe.
Thanks so much for the lovely review. We are so glad you enjoyed it! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Angela Yung says
When I took the first bite of these tacos I was amazed because they were just as good, if not better than meat tacos. The romesco sauce is amazing and I want to put it on everything. The garlic taste lingers for a really long time (which I don’t mind) but I might not put the 2 raw garlic cloves in next time.
I add black beans to these tacos for protein!
So kind! Thanks for sharing, Angela!
Sheila says
So so SO delicious!!! The flavours are beyond and super easy to make! This recipe will absolutely be al part of our regular rotation! Thank you!!!
Marisa says
Just made this and LOVED it! I roasted some chickpeas along with the cauliflower and the texture was incredible. I made the sauce as written and I’m absolutely obsessed. It did make a lot of sauce, but that’s okay because I’m so happy to have extra in my fridge! For toppings I used red cabbage, red onion, sour cream, and cilantro. Incredible. Thank you so much for such a great recipe!
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Marisa! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Lisa Childers says
This is the 3rd time I have made this recipe in 2020! My meat eating husband devours them! Toasted almond sauce isn’t genius.
Hanna says
This recipe is AMAZING. The sauce is key. The roasted almonds and canned chipotle peppers in adobo add a complexity to the flavor of the sauce. Somehow I had never tried cauliflower in tacos before and the texture is sooo perfect. I agree with a previous commenter- while I love garlic- I would probably just do the roasted garlic. This will 100% be in our meal rotation from now on!
Thanks for sharing, Hanna!
Alaina says
These are delicious, but I left out the chipotle and added some cayenne instead to tone down the smokiness. I thought they were good but much better with the addition of homemade guacamole. But then again, what isn’t better with guacamole? I loved the two sauces together and also added the shaved cabbage and cilantro.
Baylee Fulford says
I made this with sunflower seeds, as I have an almond allergy. The picture of the chipotle looks quiet thick, mine turned out pureed with a texture similar to apple sauce. Perhaps I didn’t drain the tomatoes enough? It’s good but something definitely tastes off about the sauce. It’s a little TOO smoky and Idk how to fix it. I am also a novel cook. Trying recipes for the first time, I’d say I get it correct 65% of the time. The ones that turn out right are the ones I tend to make again. Sigh, the failures and successes of learning.
Hi Baylee! Sorry for your trouble here. To reduce smokiness, omit or reduce smoked paprika, omit or reduce chipotle peppers, and/or use diced tomatoes instead of fire roasted. As for texture, I’d say drain them a little more next time for a thicker sauce / better results!
Baylee Fulford says
Want to make this, but I have an almond allergy. Will it taste the same without the addition of the almonds?
You could omit, but it might impact the texture a bit. We think cashews or pumpkin seeds might work as a substitute. Let us know if you try it!
Kristin says
Pistachios would be fun as well!!
I made this last night but used a cashew and chipotle salsa crema overtop and we added some pepper jack cheese as well. Who needs meat?!! Even my carnivorous family LOVED the cauliflower!! Xo
Michelle says
Hello! So excited to make this recipe this week. Your recipe calls for 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. So I guess my question is, do you buy them like this or did you have to prepare them?
Thank you!
Hi Michelle, we buy them canned. Hope that helps!
Sara says
This was excellent! I added red onion to the cauliflower as well as some roasted corn and didn’t have any almonds on hand… definitely will become a staple for us!
Thanks so much for the lovely review, Sara. We are so glad you enjoyed them! Next time, would you mind leaving a rating with your review? It’s super helpful for us and other readers. Thanks so much! Xo
Lindsay says
Does anyone have a good substitution for the almonds? I can’t eat tree nuts of any kind (also, no peanuts, soy, or coconut).
Another reader mentioned using sunflower seeds with success, but we haven’t tried that and can’t guarantee results. Let us know if you give it a try!
Gabi says
I’ve been making this recipe for nearly two years, and everyone who’s eaten it has loved it! I’ve made half batches for just me and my partner, all the way up to quintuple (x5) batches for my gaggle of hungry college friends. This is a go-to in my weeknight dinner rotation – it has all the savory and smoky elements you want in a taco, with none of the meat. The cauliflower also develops an awesome subtle sweetness from roasting. I’m making this again this week, which is why I’m finally commenting. I love this recipe!
We’re so glad you enjoy this recipe! Thanks so much for sharing!
Johanna says
Sounds yum! Any suggestion on how to substitute fire roasted tomatoes? Fresh, regular chopped/canned or sundried is what we’ve got here in Sweden. Do they taste like smoke or what? :)
Hi Johanna, chopped/canned should work! Won’t be quite as smoky tasting, but otherwise similar. Let us know how it goes!
Rebecca says
Amazing, restaurant quality recipe. I loved the sauce, I was pouring it all over the roasted cauliflower. I will definitely make this one again!
Kavya C says
I made this for dinner for my mom and I and it was SO flavorful and delicious. I was skeptical of the sauce but it was so amazing. I’m so excited to make again
We’re so glad you both enjoyed it! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Amy Hunsberger says
Made the sauce with pine nuts instead of almonds (cuz that’s what I had). Delish!!! Also very happy to have extra sauce to put on pretty much everything over the next day or two!
Yay! We’re so glad you enjoyed them! Thanks for sharing!
Carolyn says
Made this tonight and it was delicious. I love the sauce especially, which I’m sure will find its way onto other dishes I make going foreword. Loved it. Thanks for the recipe.
We’re so glad you enjoyed it, Carolyn! Thanks so much for the lovely review!
Cory says
Fantastic Recipe! I made it for my family, who were very skeptical when they found out it was Cauliflower, everyone loved it! My 10yr old who hates most vegetables went back for seconds and that only happens with pasta. Next test…. my mother-in-law!