Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice
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Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice
Description
The Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice recipe transforms cauliflower into a grain-like base, mimicking rice through pulsing florets in a food processor. Sautéed onions and garlic provide a soft, aromatic foundation, while cooking the cauliflower until tender brings out a mild sweetness and maintains a pleasant bite. The finishing touch of fresh lime zest and juice combined with chopped cilantro imparts a zingy, herbal freshness that complements the dish's natural earthiness. This preparation is an adaptable side dish that pairs especially well with dishes needing a bright, light accompaniment rather than a heavy starch.
The method focuses on gently softening the cauliflower rice in a skillet with olive oil, avoiding excessive moisture to prevent sogginess. Seasoning with salt and pepper enhances the overall balance. Lime and cilantro are added off the heat to preserve their fresh flavors and aromas. This dish can be served warm, making it suitable for immediate enjoyment alongside main courses.
For storage, leftovers keep well refrigerated in an airtight container for 4-5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating should be done gently to maintain texture and flavor integrity.
Ingredients
- 1 cauliflower cut into florets (or 3-4 cups cauliflower rice, head
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 onion diced, small
- 2 garlic minced, cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lime zested and juiced
- ½ cup cilantro chopped
Instructions
- Place the cauliflower florets in a food processor and pulse until the cauliflower is small and resembles couscous. Set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil, then add the onions and garlic and cook until soft and translucent, 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cauliflower rice and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper and continue to cook, stirring frequently until the cauliflower softens, 5-7 more minutes.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a large serving bowl. Add lime juice, lime zest and fresh cilantro and toss gently to combine. Serve warm.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Add lime juice and cilantro after cooking to retain their bright flavor and color.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 82 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1cup | |
| Calories | 82kcal | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 11g | 4% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Fat | 4g | 6% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.4g | 2% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Sodium | 191mg | 8% |
| Potassium | 492mg | 10% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 145IU | 3% |
| Vitamin C | 76mg | 84% |
| Calcium | 46mg | 5% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.