Description
This Quick Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice Bowl is a vibrant, healthy, and low-carb alternative to traditional rice dishes. Featuring freshly riced cauliflower sautéed with garlic and olive oil, then brightened with fresh lime juice and cilantro, this recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Optional additions like bell peppers and grilled chicken make it customizable for added nutrition and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 medium head Cauliflower (Riced to yield about 4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice (Freshly squeezed for best flavor)
- 1 cup Cilantro (Chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil (Extra virgin)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- 1 pinch Salt (To taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper (Freshly ground)
Optional Additions
- 1 cup Bell peppers (Chopped, for added color and nutrition)
- 1 cup Grilled chicken (Chopped, for added protein)
Instructions
- Rice the cauliflower: Rinse the cauliflower thoroughly, remove the leaves and stem, then cut it into quarters. Use a food processor or box grater to rice the cauliflower until you have about 4 cups.
- Heat the olive oil: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the extra virgin olive oil. Heat it until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot and ready for cooking.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until the aroma becomes fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
- Cook the cauliflower rice: Add the riced cauliflower to the skillet. Stir frequently to coat it evenly with the garlic and olive oil. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy.
- Season the dish: Sprinkle in the salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning throughout the cauliflower rice.
- Add lime juice and cilantro: Remove the skillet from heat. Immediately squeeze fresh lime juice over the cauliflower rice and fold in the chopped cilantro to preserve its bright flavor.
- Incorporate optional ingredients: If desired, stir in chopped bell peppers and grilled chicken to add extra color, texture, and protein to your bowl.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the dish and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice if necessary. Serve the cauliflower rice bowl warm, enjoying the fresh and flavorful medley.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Use leftover grilled chicken or substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Cauliflower rice can also be cooked in the microwave if you’re short on time—cook for 3-4 minutes on high.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Fresh lime juice and cilantro are key for the brightness of this dish; avoid bottled lime juice for best taste.
