Spanish Cauliflower Rice

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This Spanish Cauliflower Rice is an easy to make side dish you can enjoy without the guilt! It is gluten-free, low-calorie, low-carb and Keto friendly, making it perfect regardless of what your health goals are. You will be surprised at how much Cauliflower Rice tastes like the real thing.

For years it has seemed like a sick twist of fate that I adore carbs, but my body does better when I limit them.

Not only do I have more energy, but I find that the more I focus on vegetables, proteins and healthy fats the easier it is for me to lose weight.

I’ve known this for years, and I just ignored the fact because it makes me sad.

No pasta?! Whaaaa…..

Then I turned 45, and I realized that my “weight creep” had gotten out of hand. I had to do something.

I tried going (back) vegan on three occasions last year. It is an easy diet for me to maintain because I love the food.

I felt terrible.

My digestion was a disaster. I was constantly hangry, and my B12 and Iron anemia quickly resurfaced.

Oh, and I ended up gaining weight. (Who the heck does that on a vegan diet?!)

Obviously, this is frustrating because I have so many friends who do beautifully on a vegan diet. Chalk one up to bio-individuality I suppose.

In January, I refocused my diet to a lower carb, moderate protein and high in healthy fats and I feel great! I’ve lost almost 20 pounds without feeling deprived. My blood sure is stable, and I never get that

If I don’t eat in the next five minutes I am going to kill someone feeling.”

I thought I couldn’t live without things like rice, but it turns out there is an easy substitution. This Spanish Cauliflower Rice is just as delicious as settling down to a big bowl of rice.  Really, it is.

It is also the best way I’ve found to make Keto rice.

Cauliflower has quickly become a rock star in my kitchen, and I couldn’t be happier with my new leading man.

I use Cauliflower Rice all the time – from side dishes, to stir-fries and bowls ! I make my own “rice”, but I’ve heard that many stores now carry it in the freezer section. And some have it in the produce section too.  (I’ve been meaning to look for those times when I am short on time.)

If you are looking to limit carbs, or just lower your calories, this Spanish Cauliflower Rice Recipe is one you are going to want to try!

Recommended Tools to Make Spanish Cauliflower Rice Recipe:

• Food Processor (you may also use a hand grater.)
• Large Skillet

Frequently Asked Questions for this Cauliflower Spanish Rice Recipe:

Can You Buy Cauliflower Rice?

Absolutely! Trader Joe’s was one of the first to come out with cauliflower rice that you can buy. Now, there are numerous brands available including Green Giant and Birds Eye. I have even seen several grocery stores with store brand cauliflower rice.  Look for cauliflower rice in the freezer section and the produce section.

How Do You Cook Cauliflower Rice?

The best way to cook cauliflower rice is to saute in a little oil for five minutes. Add liquid to the pan and cover. Cook for another five to ten minutes.

How Long Can I Keep Cauliflower Rice in the Fridge?

Cauliflower Rice will keep in the fridge for up to five days.

If You Try This Spanish Cauliflower Rice Recipe, Leave Me a Comment and Let Me Know How it Goes!

4.72 from 7 votes

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Spanish Cauliflower Rice

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

15 mins

Total Time

25 mins

 

This Cauliflower Spanish Rice Recipe is a delicious low-carb side dish that you can enjoy without guilt! Naturally Gluten Free and Keto Friendly.

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Servings: 4

Calories: 70 kcal

Author: Wendy Polisi

Ingredients

• 16 ounces cauliflower
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/3 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup cilantro chopped

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

1. Cut cauliflower into florets. Place in a food processor and process until “riced”.
2. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add cauliflower and cook for five minutes.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, broth, garlic, onion powder, cumin, sea salt and black pepper. Cover and cook for 5 to 10 more minutes, until tender.

4. Uncover.  Toss with lime juice and garnish with cilantro.

Recipe Notes

Variations for Spanish Cauliflower Rice:

• Add 1/2 diced onion to the skillet with the cauliflower.
• Add 1/2 cup thawed frozen baby peas when you add the seasonings.  Omit the cilantro and garnish with parsley and parmesan cheese.
• Use broccoli instead of cauliflower for Broccoli rice.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a side dish for tacos, enchiladas or burritos.
• Serve with Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas.
• Serve with Smokey Avocado Chicken

Tips for Making Spanish Cauliflower Rice:

• Short on time? (Or don't have a food processor.) It is easy to find already riced cauliflower at most grocery stores. You will find it in the produce section or in the frozen section.
• If you find that your cauliflower rice is sticking to the pan, you can fix this by adding a little more oil or liquid to the pan.

Nutrition Facts

Spanish Cauliflower Rice

Amount Per Serving

Calories 70 Calories from Fat 27

% Daily Value*

Total Fat 3g 5%

Sodium 486mg 20%

Potassium 418mg 12%

Total Carbohydrates 7g 2%

Dietary Fiber 2g 8%

Sugars 3g

Protein 2g 4%

Vitamin A 3.1%

Vitamin C 71.2%

Calcium 2.8%

Iron 4.7%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

If You Like this Spanish Cauliflower Rice Recipe You May Also Like:

• Sweet Mustard Broccoli Salad
• Chicken Broccoli Cauliflower Risotto
• Smokey Chicken with Avocado Sauce