Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice
This cilantro lime cauliflower rice is a fresh and flavorful low carb alternative to traditional rice. Light, fluffy, and packed with garlic, lime, and cilantro, it’s the perfect healthy side for tacos, burrito bowls, grilled chicken, or seafood.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 87kcal
Ingredients
- 1 cauliflower medium, grated (about 24 ounces)
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ lime zested and juiced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt or more to taste
Instructions
- Remove the outer leaves and core from the cauliflower and cut it into large florets, then grate it using a box grater or pulse it in a food processor in short bursts until it resembles rice-sized grains.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add the minced garlic, and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned.
- Add the cauliflower rice to the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still fluffy and not mushy.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lime zest, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and salt.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Dry the cauliflower before cooking. Pat it with a paper towel to remove moisture for a fluffier, rice-like texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed so the cauliflower sautés instead of steaming.
- Use medium heat. This helps the cauliflower cook evenly without getting soggy or browned too quickly.
- Add lime zest off the heat. It keeps the flavor bright and prevents bitterness.
- Taste and adjust. A little extra lime juice or salt at the end can make the flavors pop.
- Try roasting for more depth. Baking the cauliflower rice at 425°F gives it a slightly nutty, toasted flavor.
- Make it spicy. Stir in diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
- Swap oils for variety. Use butter for richness or avocado oil for a lighter finish.
- Store it right. Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat gently. Warm in a skillet over medium heat to bring back the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition
Calories: 87kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 335mg | Potassium: 450mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 72IU | Vitamin C: 72mg | Calcium: 38mg | Iron: 1mg