Vegan Cauliflower Tacos

If taco night had a main character, it would be these smoky, crispy vegan cauliflower tacos. Roasted cauliflower, crunchy slaw, creamy avocado, and a squeeze of lime—big on flavor, easy to love, and exactly what your next taco Tuesday needs.
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A plate of three vegan cauliflower tacos, garnished with fresh cilantro, zesty sauce, and lime wedges.
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Some nights, you just need an easy taco recipe that delivers—big on flavor, low on effort, and basically impossible to mess up. That’s where these vegan cauliflower tacos come in. Crispy-edged, smoky-spiced florets piled into warm tortillas, topped with a bright, crunchy slaw and a creamy drizzle that ties it all together. It’s got that perfect balance of fresh, rich, and sure, it’s a little messy, but that’s part of the charm.

And that first bite? It’s everything. The crunch of roasted cauliflower, the zip of lime, the cool, creamy avocado—then the heat sneaks in, just enough to keep things interesting. It’s bold, balanced, and the kind of meal that disappears faster than you planned. With this taco recipe, there’s no overthinking, no complicated prep—just an easy, ridiculously good dinner that feels like a win without the extra work.

Why You’ll Love These Vegan Cauliflower Tacos

When tacos are on the menu, it’s never a hard sell—but these vegan cauliflower tacos bring something extra to the table. They’re crispy, smoky, a little messy (in the best way), and ridiculously easy to make. Whether it’s taco night, meal prep, or just a Tuesday that needs saving, these hit all the right notes. Here’s why they deserve a spot in your regular rotation:

  • Crispy, smoky, and packed with flavor: Roasting cauliflower transforms it into something golden and caramelized, with a subtle smoky heat from cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. It’s hearty (without the meat) and brings serious taco energy.
  • Quick and weeknight-friendly: Ready in under an hour, most of that time is hands-off while the cauliflower roasts. No standing over the stove, no over-complicated steps—just simple, flavorful tacos that come together fast.
  • Perfect balance of textures: Crunchy slaw, creamy avocado, warm tortillas, and crispy-edged cauliflower—every bite is layered and satisfying. Because good tacos are all about the contrast.
  • Meal-prep approved: Roast the cauliflower and make the slaw ahead of time, then all that’s left is assembly. We highly recommend doubling the batch—you’ll want leftovers. Easy lunches, easy dinners, and an even easier week ahead.
  • Customizable to your taste: Keep it mild or spice it up. Swap the sauce. Go low-carb with lettuce wraps or throw everything into a burrito bowl. These tacos play nice with whatever you’re in the mood for.
Close-up of vegan cauliflower tacos with crispy roasted cauliflower, slaw, avocado, and lime on soft tortillas.

Key Ingredients And Easy Substitutions

The magic of these vegan cauliflower tacos is all in the details—bold seasoning, crunchy slaw, and a creamy drizzle that ties it all together. Every ingredient pulls its weight, adding flavor, texture, or just that little something that makes tacos so good. Here’s what you’ll need (plus a few ways to mix it up):

Ingredients for vegan cauliflower tacos, including cauliflower, seasonings, cabbage, tortillas, and avocado, with labels.
  • Cauliflower: The star of the show! Roasting cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness while giving it crispy, golden edges. Chop it into small florets so it cooks evenly and gets the perfect amount of char.
  • Seasonings (Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder, Cumin, Salt): This simple blend packs a smoky, slightly spicy punch—essential for giving cauliflower the depth of flavor it needs. Want to turn up the heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or swap in chipotle powder for extra smokiness.
  • Cabbage Slaw (Red or Green Cabbage + Lime Juice + Vegan Mayo): Crunchy, tangy, and the perfect contrast to the warm, spiced cauliflower. Red cabbage adds color, while green brings a milder bite. If mayo isn’t your thing, swap in a mix of dairy-free yogurt and lime juice for a lighter, tangy slaw.
  • Tortillas (Corn or Flour): Corn tortillas keep things traditional (and gluten-free), while flour tortillas give you a softer, slightly chewy bite. Pro tip: Warm them up on an open flame or in a dry pan for extra flavor.
  • Avocado: Because tacos and avocado just belong together. Thick slices add creaminess and richness, balancing out the spice. Want to take it up a notch? Try a quick guacamole or a drizzle of homemade vegan cashew sour cream for a creamy, tangy finish.
  • Vegan Feta: A salty, briny contrast to the smoky cauliflower and tangy slaw. Crumble it over the top for extra flavor in every bite. If you don’t have vegan feta, a sprinkle of pepitas (pumpkin seeds) adds a nice crunch.
  • Red Onion & Cilantro: A fresh, zippy bite that cuts through the richness. If cilantro tastes like soap to you (we see you, cilantro-haters), swap in fresh parsley or thinly sliced scallions.
  • Lime Wedges: A final squeeze of lime brightens everything up, making all the flavors pop. Don’t skip this part—it’s the little detail that makes a big difference!

For full quantities and measurements, scroll to the printable recipe card below!

Flavor-Packed Variations for Cauliflower Tacos

Tacos are meant to be played with, and this recipe is no exception. Whether you want to crank up the heat, switch up the texture, or take these in a totally new direction, there’s plenty of room to make them your own. Here are some easy ways to remix your vegan cauliflower tacos while keeping all that crispy, flavor-packed goodness:

  • Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos: Swap out the smoky spice blend for buffalo sauce and toss the roasted cauliflower in it after baking. Pair with a cooling ranch drizzle (vegan mayo + lemon juice + garlic + herbs) and shredded lettuce for a fiery, tangy twist.
  • Loaded Guacamole Cauliflower Tacos: Ditch the slaw and go full guacamole mode. Mash up some avocado, lime juice, garlic, and salt, then spread a thick layer onto each tortilla before piling on the cauliflower. Add pickled pink onions and jalapeños for contrast.
  • Crispy Battered Cauliflower Tacos: Want more crunch? Coat the cauliflower in a light batter (flour + cornstarch + water + spices) and bake or air-fry until golden. Finish with a creamy chipotle sauce for a Baja-style taco that’s all about texture.
  • Garlic Lime Cauliflower Tacos: For a bold, punchy flavor, toss the roasted cauliflower with roasted garlic paste and fresh lime juice right before serving. Top with cilantro-lime crema (dairy-free yogurt + lime + blended cilantro) for extra brightness.
  • High-Protein Cauliflower Tacos: Need more plant-based protein? Add roasted chickpeas, black beans, or crumbled tempeh to the mix. They soak up all the same smoky seasonings and make these tacos extra satisfying.
  • Taco Bowl Version: Skip the tortillas and serve everything over a bed of cilantro-lime rice or shredded lettuce. Drizzle with extra sauce, add crunchy tortilla strips, and call it a day.

How to Make Roasted Cauliflower Tacos (Step-By-Step)

This is the kind of recipe that looks impressive but comes together with minimal effort—our favorite kind. Roast the cauliflower, toss together the slaw, warm up some tortillas, and boom, taco night is handled. Let’s break it down step by step so you can get the perfect crispy, flavor-packed tacos every time.

Making these tacos is a breeze. Follow these steps and you’ll be on your way to a balanced, colorful, and delicious taco!

Step 1: Season the Cauliflower – Start by cutting your cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets—this helps them roast faster and get those crispy, golden edges.

Bowl of cauliflower florets coated in smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder, ready for roasting.

Step 2: Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and salt.

Seasoned cauliflower florets evenly coated with spices in a glass mixing bowl.

Make sure every piece is well coated!

Seasoned cauliflower florets spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet before roasting.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection – Spread the cauliflower evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet (no crowding—let them breathe for max crispiness).

Golden-brown roasted cauliflower florets on a baking sheet, crisped to perfection.

Roast at 400°F for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and slightly charred.

Small bowl of creamy vegan dressing held above shredded purple cabbage for slaw.

Step 4: Make the Slaw – While the cauliflower is doing its thing, shred some red cabbage and toss it with a creamy, tangy dressing made from vegan mayo (or sub dairy-free yogurt), lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This slaw brings the crunch and a fresh contrast to the smoky cauliflower.

Soft tortillas topped with crunchy slaw and roasted cauliflower, ready for assembly.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos – Warm up your tortillas (a quick pass over an open flame or in a dry pan makes them extra delicious).

Fully assembled vegan cauliflower tacos with avocado, red onion, and fresh cilantro, served with lime wedges.

Layer in some slaw, pile on the roasted cauliflower, and top with avocado slices, red onion, crumbled vegan feta, and fresh cilantro. A squeeze of lime? Non-negotiable.

A fully assembled vegan cauliflower taco with avocado, red onion, and fresh cilantro, served with lime wedges.

Grab a taco, take a bite, and prepare to wonder why you don’t make these every single week. Crispy, smoky, creamy, crunchy—these tacos hit all the right notes with basically zero fuss.

Pro Tips for Vegan Cauliflower Tacos

Great tacos aren’t just about piling ingredients into a tortilla—they’re about texture, balance, and making every bite count. From getting that cauliflower just right to keeping your slaw crisp and tortillas warm, a few small tweaks can make a big difference. Here’s how to take your tacos from good to next-level amazing:

  • Chop the Cauliflower Small for Maximum Crispiness: Bigger florets = longer cooking time and less crispy edges. Keep them small and uniform so they roast evenly and develop that golden, slightly charred exterior that makes these tacos sing.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cauliflower releases moisture as it roasts, and if the pieces are too close together, they’ll steam instead of crisp. Spread them out on the baking sheet to let the heat work its magic.
  • Let the Cauliflower Rest After Roasting: Giving the roasted cauliflower a few minutes to cool before serving helps the spices settle and prevents it from getting soggy in the tacos. It’s a small step, but it makes a difference.
  • Warm Your Tortillas the Right Way: A cold tortilla = a sad taco. For the best texture, heat them over an open flame on the stovetop for a slight char or in a dry skillet until soft and pliable. Wrap them in a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm until serving.
  • Dress the Slaw Right Before Serving: Tossing the cabbage with the dressing too early will make it watery and limp. Keep them separate until it’s taco time for the freshest, crunchiest results.
  • Customize Your Tacos Like a Pro: Want extra heat? Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. Need more crunch? Toasted pepitas or crispy chickpeas work wonders. Feeling extra fancy? A drizzle of cashew-based vegan sour cream or a dollop of guacamole takes these over the top.

Small Tweaks, Big Payoff

Little details—like properly roasted cauliflower, warm tortillas, and a crisp slaw—turn these tacos from just good to something you’ll crave again and again. Now, all that’s left to do is grab a plate and dig in!

FAQs

Can I make these cauliflower tacos in the air fryer?

Absolutely! To make vegan cauliflower tacos air fryer style, toss the seasoned cauliflower into the air fryer at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crispiness. This method gives you an ultra-crispy texture with less oil and faster cook time compared to roasting.

How do I make crispy cauliflower for tacos?

For crispy cauliflower tacos, the key is high heat and spacing. Roast at 400-425°F, avoid overcrowding the pan, and let the cauliflower sit for a couple of minutes after roasting to enhance crispiness. For extra crunch, toss the florets in cornstarch before roasting, or air-fry them for an even crispier bite.

What’s the best sauce for cauliflower tacos?

A good sauce ties everything together! Popular options include cashew crema (blend soaked cashews, lime, and garlic), chipotle aioli (vegan mayo + chipotle powder), or a simple cilantro lime dressing. If you like heat, try a drizzle of buffalo sauce or chipotle crema for extra smoky flavor.

Are cauliflower tacos healthy?

Absolutely! Cauliflower is naturally low in calories and high in fiber, making these tacos a nutrient-dense choice. Plus, they’re packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and plant-based goodness—especially when paired with fresh toppings like avocado, slaw, and lime.

A plate of three vegan cauliflower tacos, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

If you make this vegan cauliflower tacos recipe, please leave a star rating and let me know what you think in the comments below! I love reading your comments!

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Vegan Cauliflower Tacos

5 from 6 votes
These vegan cauliflower tacos are a flavor-packed, texture-loaded dream. Roasted cauliflower brings smoky, crispy edges, a tangy slaw adds crunch, and creamy avocado ties it all together. The best part? They’re shockingly easy to make—just toss, roast, and assemble. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, these tacos check every box: simple, satisfying, and downright delicious.
A plate of three vegan cauliflower tacos, garnished with fresh cilantro, zesty sauce, and lime wedges.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 8

Ingredients

For The Cauliflower

  • 1 head of cauliflower, cut into small florets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For The Slaw

  • 2 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded red cabbage

To Assemble

  • 16 small tortillas or 8 regular-sized tortillas, corn or flour
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • ¼ cup red onion, sliced
  • ½ cup crumbled vegan feta cheese, homemade or store-bought
  • ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until coated.
  • Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 30-45 minutes, or until tender and lightly charred.
  • While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the slaw. In a medium bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined. Add the shredded red cabbage and toss to coat.
  • Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or in the oven. If using small tortillas, stack two tortillas together for a more sturdy taco.
  • To assemble the tacos, spoon some of the slaw onto each tortilla, then top with a generous amount of roasted cauliflower. Add slices of avocado, red onion, crumbled vegan feta cheese, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze a lime wedge over each taco before serving.

Notes

  • Storage Tips: Store leftover roasted cauliflower in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep the slaw undressed until serving—once it’s tossed with the dressing, it’s best eaten fresh. Avocado is also best sliced fresh for serving.
  • Reheating: For the best texture, reheat cauliflower in the oven (375°F for 10 minutes) or air fryer (350°F for 5 minutes) to bring back its crispiness. The microwave works but will make it softer.
  • Make It Ahead: Roast the cauliflower and prep the slaw (without dressing) in advance. Store everything separately, then just warm up the tortillas and assemble when you’re ready to eat. Perfect for meal-prep lunches and quick weeknight dinners.
  • Tortilla Pro Tip: Warm your tortillas over an open flame for a little char or in a dry skillet to make them extra pliable and flavorful. Cold tortillas = sad tacos.
  • Spice Level: Want extra heat? Add cayenne or chipotle powder to the cauliflower seasoning, or top your tacos with sliced jalapeños and a drizzle of hot sauce.
  • Low-Carb Option: Swap the tortillas for lettuce wraps or cauliflower rice for a grain-free version while keeping all the flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 314kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 583mg | Potassium: 490mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 479IU | Vitamin C: 50mg | Calcium: 126mg | Iron: 3mg
Course — Lunch or Dinner
Cuisine — Amercan, Mexican
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5 from 6 votes

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Recipe Rating




6 comments
  1. 5 stars
    Cauliflower is not my favorite food, but I actually love it roasted in these tacos! If you’re not a huge cauliflower fan, you might be after trying this recipe 😀

  2. 5 stars
    Love this idea! I’ve wondered if ChatGPT was a reliable source for recipes. Sounds like a solid maybe if the cook already knows a thing or two about cooking. Anyway, I gave these tacos a try and they were really good! Thanks for experimenting, and this shows I should probably stick with bloggers for finding recipes and not ChatGPT.

  3. Jessi Pratton says:

    5 stars
    Love this healthy taco recipe!

  4. Andrea White says:

    5 stars
    These cauliflower tacos turned out so so good! Will make these a part of my Tuesday rotation now!

  5. 5 stars
    Those tacos look sooo good! I’m not surprised it took ChatGPT several attempts to make a working recipe. Such a cool experiment!

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