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Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice is a refreshing low-carb side dish where lightly sautéed cauliflower, onions, and garlic are infused with tangy lime juice, fresh cilantro, and a hint of cumin. This easy side dish is a great way to add flavor to a burrito bowl or other favorite Mexican entrees.

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This easy Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice is made with all simple ingredients and takes advantage of the low carb, great tasting, alternative to regular rice, fresh cauliflower rice! Making cauliflower rice from a head of cauliflower isn't much more complicated than making regular rice. Adding fresh lime juice, cilantro, and seasonings boosts the cauliflower rice taste to out of this world levels!

There's so many different ways to enjoy this flavorful side dish, and without the heavy carbs of traditional rice, this is the perfect side dish to use in any of your favorite recipes. You'll get the best results when you serve this fresh, and it is quick to whip up.

Serve Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice as a side with Salsa Chicken, Fiesta Lime Chicken, Beef Taquitos or inside a Chicken Burrito Bowl!

Why You'll Love this Recipe:

Light and Satisfying: Enjoy a low-carb, low-calorie side that's both filling and energizing.
Burst of Fresh Flavors: Tangy lime, aromatic garlic, and crisp cilantro combine for an irresistible flavor profile.
Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Pairing: It complements a wide range of main dishes, from grilled proteins to Mexican-inspired meals.
Customizable: Easily adjust seasonings or add extra veggies to tailor it to your taste.
Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, it's as nutritious as it is delicious.
Meal Prep Friendly: Its simplicity makes it an ideal addition to your weekly meal prep routine.

Ingredients to Make Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice:

  • cauliflower. Provides the low-carb, nutrient-rich base of the dish; use a whole head for a fresh start or pre-riced for convenience.
  • onion. Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor; diced onions integrate well when sautéed with other ingredients.
  • lime juice. Brings a bright, tangy burst of flavor that lifts and balances the dish.
  • fresh cilantro. Delivers a fresh, herbal finish that adds vibrancy and a pop of color.
  • seasonings. A blend of salt, pepper, and cumin balances the dish, enhancing the natural flavors of the cauliflower while adding a subtle earthy warmth.

How to Make Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice:

  1. If using a whole head, remove the leaves and core, break it into florets, and pulse in a food processor until it reaches a rice-like consistency.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it softens, about 2-3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the cauliflower rice to the skillet along with the cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender.
  4. Stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro. Cook for an additional minute to let the flavors meld together.

Recipe Notes & Tips:

  • Prep Ahead: Use pre-riced cauliflower if you're short on time, or pulse a fresh head in a food processor for a more homemade texture.
  • Even Cooking: Sauté onions and garlic just until soft to prevent burning, which ensures they add flavor without bitterness.
  • Flavor Boost: Adjust lime juice and cilantro to taste for a brighter, more personalized flavor profile.
  • Seasoning Balance: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and cumin after cooking to perfectly balance the dish.
  • Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately to enjoy the optimal texture and fresh flavors, or gently reheat to avoid mushiness.

Serving Suggestions:

cilantro lime cauliflower rice in bowl

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

5 from 3 votes
Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice is a refreshing, low-carb side dish of cauliflower rice tossed with lime, cilantro, and a touch of cumin.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 83

Ingredients  

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, or 4 cups pre-riced cauliflower
  • ½ cup onion, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ cup lime juice
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper

Instructions
 

  1. If using a whole head, remove the leaves and core, break it into florets, and pulse in a food processor until it reaches a rice-like consistency.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it softens, about 2-3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the cauliflower rice to the skillet along with the cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender.
  4. Stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro. Cook for an additional minute to let the flavors meld together.

Nutrition

Calories: 83kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 3gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 337mgPotassium: 499mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 147IUVitamin C: 76mgCalcium: 45mgIron: 1mg

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5 from 3 votes (1 rating without comment)

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