Description
Vegan Cauliflower Nachos
Swap traditional nachos for a plant-based twist with these Cauliflower Nachos! Crispy, seasoned cauliflower florets serve as the perfect low-carb base for classic nacho toppings like black beans, tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeños. Finished with melted vegan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, this recipe is a healthier way to indulge your nacho cravings without compromising on flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish, these nachos are a guilt-free comfort food everyone will love!
1 small cauliflower (about 5 cups)
3–4 tbsp avocado oil
1 tbsp nutritional yeast
1 ½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp cumin
½ tsp sea salt
½ cup black beans
½ cup chopped tomatoes
¼ cup finely chopped red onion
1 chopped jalapeño
1 cup vegan mozzarella
2–3 tbsp finely chopped cilantro
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Slice cauliflower into ½-inch pieces. Toss with oil, nutritional yeast, and spices.
3. Spread on the sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
4. Remove, cluster florets together, and top with beans, tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cheese.
5. Return to oven for 5 minutes to melt cheese. Garnish with cilantro.
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 268 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Cauliflower: Remove leaves and core, then slice the head into 1/2-inch thick “steaks.” Break these apart into bite-sized, flat florets for maximum crispiness.
2. Season Thoroughly: In a large bowl, toss florets with avocado oil until evenly coated. Sprinkle all dry spices and nutritional yeast over top, then toss again until every piece is well-seasoned.
3. First Roast: Arrange florets in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Roast at 425°F for 20 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and crispy.
4. Build the Nachos: Remove the sheet. Gently push the roasted cauliflower into a clustered, nacho-like pile in the center. Evenly layer black beans, tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño over the top. Sprinkle vegan cheese shreds generously over everything.
5. Melt and Serve: Return to oven for 5-7 minutes, just until cheese is melted. Immediately garnish with fresh cilantro.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these nachos directly from the baking sheet for a fun, shareable appetizer. For a complete meal, add sides like vegan sour cream, guacamole, or a lime-cilantro crema for dipping. Pair with a light, crisp salad to balance the dish. For extra protein, consider adding seasoned vegan ground “meat” or crumbled tofu during the topping stage.
How-to Summary
Create a healthy nacho alternative by slicing and roasting spiced cauliflower florets until crispy. Cluster the hot florets, then top with black beans, fresh veggies, and vegan cheese. Briefly return to the oven to melt the cheese, then finish with fresh cilantro for a flavorful, plant-based snack or meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cauliflower ahead of time?
You can roast the cauliflower 1 day in advance. Store cooled florets in the fridge and re-crisp in the oven for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
What can I use instead of avocado oil?
Any high-heat oil like refined coconut or olive oil works. For oil-free, use vegetable broth, though results will be less crispy.
How do I prevent soggy nachos?
Ensure florets are thoroughly dried before seasoning and are not overcrowded on the baking sheet during the first roast.
My vegan cheese isn’t melting well. Any tips?
Use a brand known for meltability, cover the tray with foil for the last 3 minutes, or add a splash of water to the sheet to create steam.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check labels on pre-shredded vegan cheese to confirm.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cutting florets too small, which causes them to burn.
- Not tossing the cauliflower enough, leading to uneven seasoning.
- Adding wet toppings (like salsa) before baking, which creates sogginess.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet, which steams the cauliflower instead of roasting it.
- Skipping the step of clustering the florets before adding toppings, which results in uneven coverage.
Conclusion
These Vegan Cauliflower Nachos successfully transform a classic comfort food into a nutritious, flavor-packed dish. By using crispy roasted cauliflower as the base, you gain a satisfying texture and depth of flavor while keeping the meal light and plant-based. This versatile recipe is perfect for game day, a quick family dinner, or impressing guests with a creative appetizer. It proves that with a few smart swaps, you don’t have to sacrifice indulgence for health.