Description
This Mexican Cauliflower Rice Recipe offers a vibrant, low-carb twist on traditional rice by using fresh cauliflower as a fluffy, flavorful base. Enhanced with aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and zesty lime and cilantro, it provides a quick, nutritious, and versatile side dish perfect for pairing with a variety of Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium head fresh cauliflower, grated into rice-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste or 1/2 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cauliflower: Wash and dry a medium head of cauliflower thoroughly. Pulse it in a food processor or grate manually until the texture resembles rice grains.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Add Peppers and Spices: Stir in diced bell peppers, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Allow the spices to toast lightly for about 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
- Cook the Cauliflower Rice: Mix in the riced cauliflower and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent drying out.
- Finish with Fresh Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice to add brightness and freshness. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
Notes
- Drain Excess Moisture: Before cooking, pat the riced cauliflower dry with a clean towel to avoid sogginess.
- Medium Heat Magic: Cook over medium heat to develop flavors without burning the delicate cauliflower.
- Customize Spice Levels: Start with mild seasonings and adjust chili powder or jalapeños to your preferred heat.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Add cilantro at the end of cooking to maximize its vibrant flavor and color.
- Don’t Skip Lime: The acidity brightens the entire dish and balances the spices beautifully.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Mexican cauliflower rice, low carb rice alternative, keto cauliflower rice, healthy side dish, Mexican side dish