Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice Recipe

Introduction

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice is a fresh, flavorful, and low-carb alternative to traditional rice. This vibrant side dish combines zesty lime and aromatic cilantro with tender cauliflower rice, making it perfect for a light meal or to accompany your favorite main dishes.

Ingredients

• 16 oz fresh riced cauliflower
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 lime, juiced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Step 2: Add the diced yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
3. Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add the riced cauliflower to the skillet. Sauté, stirring often, for 7 to 10 minutes until the cauliflower softens and starts to brown slightly.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Toss well and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder while sautéing the cauliflower.
• Use fresh lime juice for the best brightness; bottled lime juice can alter the flavor.
• To keep it vegan, substitute butter with olive oil or coconut oil.
• Add diced jalapeños if you prefer a spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower rice for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cauliflower rice can be used. Just thaw and drain any excess moisture before cooking to avoid sogginess.

Is cilantro necessary for the flavor?

Cilantro adds a fresh herbal note that complements the lime well, but if you’re not a fan, you can substitute with fresh parsley or omit it altogether.

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 92 reviews

A quick and flavorful Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice recipe that serves as a healthy low-carb alternative to traditional rice. This dish combines fresh riced cauliflower sautéed with aromatic garlic and onions, finished with fresh cilantro and tangy lime juice for a zesty and vibrant side that complements any meal.

• Author: Lily
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
• Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 16 oz fresh riced cauliflower
• 1/2 cup yellow onion (diced)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)

Other Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 lime (juiced)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Butter and Onion: Melt the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat to create a flavorful base, then add the diced yellow onion. Stir and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent, releasing its sweetness.
2. Add Garlic: Incorporate the minced garlic into the skillet and stir continuously for about one minute until fragrant to infuse the dish with aromatic depth.
3. Cook Cauliflower Rice: Add the fresh riced cauliflower to the skillet and sauté, stirring often, for 7 to 10 minutes until the cauliflower is tender and slightly golden, making sure not to overcook to maintain its texture.
4. Season and Finish: Stir in the chopped cilantro, freshly squeezed lime juice, and season with salt and pepper to your taste. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
5. Serve: Serve the Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice immediately while warm as a delicious and healthy side dish.

Notes

• For extra zest, add a pinch of chili flakes for subtle heat.
• Use fresh riced cauliflower for best texture but frozen thawed cauliflower rice can be a convenient substitute.
• Adjust lime juice and cilantro quantities to taste for your preferred level of tanginess and herbiness.
• This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
• To keep it vegan, substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

Keywords: Cilantro lime cauliflower rice, low carb side, healthy cauliflower recipe, paleo, gluten free, vegetable rice substitute