Keto Chili Lime Cauliflower Steaks

Featured in: Cozy Everyday Dinners

Thick slices of cauliflower are marinated in a vibrant chili-lime blend, then roasted to a golden crisp-tender finish. Complemented by a smooth avocado crema flavored with fresh lime and garlic, this dish balances zest and creaminess. Ideal for those seeking a low-carb, gluten-free, and vegetarian main plate, it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavorful spices. Garnishes like cilantro and jalapeño add extra brightness and a touch of heat.

Updated on Fri, 13 Feb 2026 02:12:27 GMT
Keto Chili Lime Cauliflower Steaks with Avocado Crema - Roasted cauliflower steaks glazed with zesty chili-lime marinade and topped with creamy avocado sauce.  Save to Pinterest
Keto Chili Lime Cauliflower Steaks with Avocado Crema - Roasted cauliflower steaks glazed with zesty chili-lime marinade and topped with creamy avocado sauce. | orchardbowl.com

Transform your dinner table with these stunning Keto Chili Lime Cauliflower Steaks with Avocado Crema. This low-carb vegetarian masterpiece proves that plant-based meals can be both satisfying and bursting with flavor. The thick slices of cauliflower develop a beautiful caramelized exterior when roasted, while the inside remains tender and infused with the bold spices of the marinade. The cool, creamy avocado sauce provides the perfect contrast to the warm, spiced cauliflower.

Keto Chili Lime Cauliflower Steaks with Avocado Crema - Roasted cauliflower steaks glazed with zesty chili-lime marinade and topped with creamy avocado sauce.  Save to Pinterest
Keto Chili Lime Cauliflower Steaks with Avocado Crema - Roasted cauliflower steaks glazed with zesty chili-lime marinade and topped with creamy avocado sauce. | orchardbowl.com

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The secret to these cauliflower steaks lies in the perfect balance of spices. The warming chili powder and smoky paprika create depth, while the bright lime cuts through with refreshing acidity. When you slice through the cauliflower, keeping the core intact helps the steaks hold together during roasting, resulting in that perfect meaty texture that makes this dish so substantial.

Ingredients

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  • Cauliflower Steaks: 2 large heads cauliflower, 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, zest and juice of 1 lime
  • Avocado Crema: 1 large ripe avocado, 1/3 cup sour cream (or coconut yogurt for dairy-free), juice of 1 lime, 1 garlic clove (minced), 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 1/4 tsp sea salt, 1-2 tbsp water as needed
  • Garnishes (optional): Extra chopped cilantro, lime wedges, sliced jalapeño

Instructions

Prepare the oven and cauliflower
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the leaves from the cauliflower and trim the stem, keeping the core intact. Slice each head into 1-inch-thick steaks (you should get 2–3 steaks per head; save loose florets for another use).
Make the chili-lime marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, lime zest, and lime juice until well combined.
Prepare and roast the cauliflower
Place the cauliflower steaks on the baking sheet. Brush both sides generously with the chili-lime marinade. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and crisp-tender.
Make the avocado crema
Meanwhile, in a blender or food processor, combine avocado, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, and salt. Blend until smooth, adding water a tablespoon at a time for desired consistency.
Serve
Plate the cauliflower steaks and drizzle generously with avocado crema. Garnish with cilantro, lime wedges, and jalapeño if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Für eine gleichmäßige Röstung sollten die Blumenkohlsteaks in einer einzigen Schicht auf dem Backblech verteilt werden, ohne sich zu überlappen. Die Konsistenz der Avocado-Crema kann nach Belieben angepasst werden - für eine dickflüssigere Sauce weniger Wasser hinzufügen, für eine dünnere Konsistenz mehr Flüssigkeit einarbeiten. Um Zeit zu sparen, kann die Crema bis zu einem Tag im Voraus zubereitet und im Kühlschrank aufbewahrt werden.

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Varianten und Anpassungen

Für ein intensiveres Geschmackserlebnis können Sie den Blumenkohl vor dem Servieren mit frisch gehackten Kräutern wie Petersilie oder Koriander bestreuen. Wer es schärfer mag, kann der Marinade etwas Cayennepfeffer hinzufügen oder frische Jalapeño-Scheiben als Garnitur verwenden. Für eine vegane Version ersetzen Sie die saure Sahne durch pflanzlichen Joghurt auf Kokosbasis. Die Gewürzmischung kann auch nach persönlichem Geschmack angepasst werden - probieren Sie zum Beispiel geräuchertes Paprikapulver für eine intensivere rauchige Note.

Serviervorschläge

Diese Blumenkohlsteaks eignen sich hervorragend als Hauptgericht, begleitet von einem frischen Salat mit Avocado und Limettendressing. Für eine proteinreichere Mahlzeit servieren Sie die Steaks neben gegrilltem Tofu oder, für Nicht-Vegetarier, neben gegrilltem Fisch oder Hähnchen. Die übrig gebliebene Avocado-Crema kann als Dip für Gemüsesticks oder als Dressing für Wraps und Salate verwendet werden. Garnieren Sie das Gericht vor dem Servieren mit zusätzlichen Limettenspalten für frischen Saft und einem Extra-Geschmackskick.

Vibrant low-carb cauliflower steaks with smoky chili-lime seasoning, served with rich avocado crema for a satisfying vegetarian main dish.  Save to Pinterest
Vibrant low-carb cauliflower steaks with smoky chili-lime seasoning, served with rich avocado crema for a satisfying vegetarian main dish. | orchardbowl.com

These Keto Chili Lime Cauliflower Steaks with Avocado Crema are proof that plant-based cooking can be sophisticated, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you're following a keto lifestyle, looking for meatless Monday inspiration, or simply want to explore the versatility of cauliflower, this dish delivers on all fronts. The combination of warm spices, bright citrus, and creamy avocado creates a memorable dining experience that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds.

Recipe Questions & Answers

How do I slice cauliflower into steaks?

Remove the leaves and trim the stem, keeping the core intact. Cut the cauliflower into 1-inch thick slices to form steaks.

Can I substitute sour cream in the crema?

Yes, coconut yogurt is a great dairy-free alternative that maintains creamy texture and tang.

What spices are used in the chili-lime marinade?

The marinade includes chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic and onion powders, sea salt, black pepper, lime juice, and zest.

How long should I roast the cauliflower steaks?

Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crisp-tender.

What garnishes enhance this dish?

Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced jalapeño add freshness and a mild kick.

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Keto Chili Lime Cauliflower Steaks

Roasted cauliflower steaks with chili-lime marinade and creamy avocado crema for a vibrant low-carb meal.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Time to Cook
30 minutes
Overall Time
45 minutes
Created by Sophie Alden

Recipe Type Cozy Everyday Dinners

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Origin American

Makes 4 Number of Servings

Dietary Details Meat-Free, No Gluten, Low in Carbs

What You'll Need

Cauliflower Steaks

01 2 large heads cauliflower
02 3 tablespoons olive oil
03 2 teaspoons chili powder
04 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 1/2 teaspoon cumin
06 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
08 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
09 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 Zest and juice of 1 lime

Avocado Crema

01 1 large ripe avocado
02 1/3 cup sour cream
03 Juice of 1 lime
04 1 garlic clove, minced
05 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
06 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
07 1 to 2 tablespoons water

Garnishes

01 Fresh cilantro, chopped
02 Lime wedges
03 Jalapeño, sliced

How To Make It

Step 01

Prepare Baking Station: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

Cut Cauliflower Steaks: Remove leaves from cauliflower and trim stem while keeping core intact. Slice each head into 1-inch-thick steaks, yielding 2 to 3 steaks per head. Reserve loose florets for alternative uses.

Step 03

Combine Chili-Lime Marinade: Whisk together olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, lime zest, and lime juice in a small bowl.

Step 04

Coat Cauliflower Steaks: Place cauliflower steaks on prepared baking sheet. Brush both sides generously with chili-lime marinade.

Step 05

Roast Cauliflower: Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking, until golden and crisp-tender.

Step 06

Prepare Avocado Crema: While cauliflower roasts, combine avocado, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, cilantro, and salt in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adding water one tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency.

Step 07

Plate and Finish: Arrange roasted cauliflower steaks on serving plates. Drizzle generously with avocado crema. Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced jalapeño if desired.

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Equipment Needed

  • Large chef's knife
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush
  • Blender or food processor

Allergy Warnings

Review all components for possible allergens and seek medical guidance if needed.
  • Contains dairy from sour cream; substitute coconut yogurt for dairy-free preparation
  • Contains avocado; caution for individuals with latex-fruit allergy
  • Review all product labels when substituting ingredients for cross-contamination risks

Nutrition Info (for each serving)

Details here are for your reference and aren't a substitute for professional advice.
  • Total Calories: 210
  • Total Fat: 17 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 13 grams
  • Proteins: 4 grams

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