Are you looking for a delicious and healthy way to replace traditional grains in your meals? Cauliflower rice is the perfect solution! This versatile ingredient can be used as a base for a wide variety of dishes, from savory stir-fries to flavorful salads. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering cauliflower rice recipes that will satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more.
From classic flavors like garlic butter and lemon herb, to international twists like Mexican black beans and Thai peanut sauce, these recipes showcase the incredible versatility of cauliflower rice. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and bold or light and refreshing, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to please.
So go ahead, get creative with cauliflower rice, and discover a whole new world of flavors and possibilities!
Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice
Elevate your meal with this creamy and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This garlic butter cauliflower rice is a game-changer, and it’s surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the cauliflower “rice” to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and lightly browned.
4. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Cauliflower Rice with Black Beans
This recipe combines the flavors of Mexico with a nutritious and gluten-free twist by using cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice. The result is a flavorful and filling dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cauliflower “rice” and black beans to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Cauliflower Rice
Elevate your side dish game with this bright and flavorful recipe that combines the best of cauliflower and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, parsley, and basil until well coated.
3. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
5. Remove from oven and stir in lemon juice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot as a side dish.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Cauliflower Rice
Add a kick to your meal with this flavorful and nutritious Spicy Sriracha Cauliflower Rice recipe. Perfect as a side dish or used as a low-carb substitute for traditional rice, this spicy cauliflower rice is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons of sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
2. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the cauliflower “rice” and sriracha sauce to the skillet.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and lightly browned.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Coconut Curry Cauliflower Rice
This recipe transforms cauliflower into a delicious and nutritious substitute for traditional rice, infused with the warm and aromatic flavors of coconut curry. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using); cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cauliflower florets and stir to combine with the spice mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
7. Stir in the coconut milk; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Cauliflower Rice with Cherry Tomatoes
This vibrant and flavorful side dish combines the creaminess of pesto with the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes and cauliflower rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a healthy addition to your meal prep routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cauliflower “rice” to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Stir in the pesto sauce (combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a food processor; blend until smooth). Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
6. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they release their juices and start to caramelize.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Rice Casserole
A deliciously comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Rice Casserole combines the flavors of steamed broccoli and cauliflower with creamy cheese sauce, all wrapped up in a crispy rice crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup cauliflower florets
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, steam broccoli and cauliflower until tender.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine cooked rice, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, milk, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
4. Combine the steamed vegetables with the cheesy rice mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional grated cheddar cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry
Elevate your stir-fry game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the comforting taste of teriyaki sauce with nutritious cauliflower “rice”. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger; cook 1 minute.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in teriyaki sauce and cooked cauliflower “rice”. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Cauliflower Rice Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the tanginess of feta cheese and the brightness of Mediterranean herbs, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cauliflower “rice” and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked cauliflower, parsley, oregano, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Cauliflower Rice with Blue Cheese
A twist on traditional buffalo chicken wings, this recipe uses cauliflower rice as a low-carb alternative to satisfy your cravings. A perfect blend of spicy and creamy, it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup Buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the cauliflower “rice” and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the Buffalo wing sauce to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cauliflower is coated in the sauce.
6. Transfer the cauliflower mixture to a baking dish and top with blue cheese crumbles. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Thai Peanut Cauliflower Rice
This recipe combines the creaminess of Thai peanut sauce with the nutty flavor of cauliflower rice, creating a flavorful and nutritious vegan dish. Perfect as a side or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup of Thai peanut sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup of chopped peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
2. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add garlic, ginger, and cauliflower “rice” to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in Thai peanut sauce and chopped peanuts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Cauliflower Rice
Transform cauliflower into a mouthwatering rice substitute, infused with the richness of bacon and cheddar. This easy recipe is perfect for low-carb diets or as a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the crumbled bacon and cook for 1-2 minutes, until crispy.
3. Add the cauliflower “rice” to the skillet, stirring to combine with the bacon and butter. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender but still crisp.
4. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top and stir until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cauliflower Rice Sushi Rolls
This recipe combines the health benefits of cauliflower rice with the convenience and fun of making sushi at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create delicious and unique sushi rolls that are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed sheets
– 1/4 cup of your favorite fillings (e.g., cooked chicken, avocado, cucumber, carrot)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the cauliflower “rice” and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat on a surface. Spread about 1/2 cup of the cooked cauliflower “rice” onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place your fillings in the center of the cauliflower “rice”.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo sushi mat or a clean tea towel. Slice into individual pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek Cauliflower Rice with Feta and Olives
Transform cauliflower into a Mediterranean-inspired rice dish, bursting with flavor from feta cheese, olives, and fresh herbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy side dish or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse cauliflower and remove leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cauliflower “rice” to the skillet, cooking for about 5 minutes or until slightly tender.
6. Stir in feta cheese, olives, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jalapeño Lime Cauliflower Rice
This vibrant and flavorful recipe transforms cauliflower into a tasty rice alternative, perfect for adding some excitement to your meals. With the kick of jalapeños and the brightness of lime, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
3. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic, ginger, and jalapeño; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cauliflower “rice” to the skillet, stirring to combine with the spice mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly tender.
6. Stir in lime juice and season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Cauliflower Rice Paella with Shrimp
Transform traditional Spanish paella into a low-carb, cauliflower-rice masterpiece, bursting with succulent shrimp and bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, shrimp, chicken broth, white wine (if using), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add cauliflower “rice” to the skillet, stirring to coat with the flavorful mixture.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until cauliflower is tender and shrimp are pink.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Cauliflower Rice
Transform cauliflower into a flavorful and nutritious “rice” dish with the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
2. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the processed cauliflower, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender but still crisp.
6. Serve hot as a side dish or use as a base for your favorite meals.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cauliflower Rice Stuffed Peppers
Transform traditional stuffed peppers into a healthier, flavorful dish by swapping out rice with cauliflower rice. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s also low-carb and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Pulse cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the cauliflower mixture, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Place peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kimchi Fried Cauliflower Rice
A spicy twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the crunch of cauliflower with the bold flavors of kimchi and a hint of garlic. Perfect as a side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of kimchi, chopped
– 2 teaspoons of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cauliflower and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Cook the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked cauliflower back into the skillet along with the kimchi, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cauliflower Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
Cauliflower Rice Pudding with Cinnamon: A healthy twist on traditional rice pudding, this recipe uses roasted cauliflower to create a creamy and comforting dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. Toss with olive oil, salt, and a pinch of pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Allow the cauliflower to cool slightly. Blend in a food processor until it resembles rice.
5. In a medium saucepan, combine the blended cauliflower, almond milk, heavy cream, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened slightly.
7. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your meals with these 20 mouthwatering cauliflower rice recipes! From breakfast to dinner, and even dessert, this versatile ingredient offers endless possibilities. Discover international flavors like Mexican, Thai, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, as well as comforting casseroles and stir-fries. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb alternative or just want to add some excitement to your meals, these recipes are sure to satisfy. So go ahead, get creative, and experience the delicious world of cauliflower rice!
