Looking for a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional Spanish rice? Spanish Cauliflower Rice is the perfect dish to bring bold flavors to your table while keeping things light and healthy. Packed with vibrant spices, fresh vegetables, and a hint of citrus, this dish is a great way to enjoy the taste of classic Spanish rice without the extra carbs. Plus, it’s quick to make, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights!
What Makes This Rice Special?
This isn’t just any cauliflower rice—it’s loaded with bold, savory flavors that make it a standout dish. Unlike traditional rice, cauliflower rice keeps things light and nutritious while still offering a satisfying texture.
The combination of sautéed onions, bell peppers, and garlic forms a rich foundation, while tomato paste brings a deep, umami flavor.
A blend of chili powder, cumin, and paprika adds warmth and smokiness, and a squeeze of lime juice provides a zesty, fresh contrast. Finished with fresh cilantro, this dish is bursting with color, flavor, and aroma.
How to Make Spanish Cauliflower Rice
This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
First, cauliflower is pulsed into rice-sized pieces, ensuring a light and fluffy texture. The magic happens when the aromatics—onions, bell peppers, and garlic—are sautéed in olive oil, filling the kitchen with an irresistible fragrance.
Tomato paste, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a blend of warm spices infuse the dish with bold, authentic flavors. Finally, the riced cauliflower is added and simmered to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld while keeping the texture slightly crisp.
Garnished with fresh cilantro, this dish is a delicious and wholesome addition to any meal!
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion
- ½ red bell pepper
- 3 cloves garlic
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 tbsp lime juice
- ¼ cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp oregano
- Optional: cayenne pepper to taste
Step by Step Instructions to make Spanish Cauliflower Rice
Step 1
Chop the cauliflower into small florets (smaller is easier to process) and add to your food processor. You may need to do this in 2-3 batches, depending on the size of your food processor.
Step 2
Pulse 25-30 times using the pulse function, ensuring it resembles rice but doesn’t become mushy.
Step 3
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes.
Step 4
Add the diced bell pepper and garlic, continuing to sauté for another 5 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned.
Step 5
Stir in the tomato paste, cilantro, lime juice, broth, and seasonings, mixing well to combine.
Step 6
Add the riced cauliflower and stir thoroughly, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
Step 7
Let the mixture simmer, uncovered, on low heat for about 10 minutes until the cauliflower is tender but still slightly crisp.
Step 8
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy!
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use Pre-Riced Cauliflower: Save time by using store-bought frozen riced cauliflower. A standard 12-ounce bag works perfectly.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Make It a Meal: Pair this Spanish cauliflower rice with grilled tofu, shrimp, or chicken for a complete meal.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Customization: Add black beans, corn, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Yes! Frozen riced cauliflower works great for this recipe. Just make sure to cook off any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.
How do I keep cauliflower rice from getting mushy?
Avoid over-processing it in the food processor and cook it uncovered to let excess moisture evaporate.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Absolutely! Spanish Cauliflower Rice is naturally low in carbs, making it perfect for a keto or low-carb diet.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat it in a skillet or microwave.
Conclusion
Spanish Cauliflower Rice is a flavorful, low-carb twist on a classic dish that comes together in just minutes.
Packed with vibrant spices and fresh ingredients, it’s the perfect side for any meal. Whether you’re following a keto diet or just looking for a healthier alternative to rice, this dish is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and enjoy the bold flavors of Spanish cuisine in a nutritious way!
Also try these recipes!
Spanish Cauliflower Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 3 cloves garlic
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 tbsp lime juice
- ¼ cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp oregano
- cayenne pepper to taste Optional:
Instructions
- Chop the cauliflower into small florets (smaller is easier to process) and add to your food processor. You may need to do this in 2-3 batches, depending on the size of your food processor.
- Pulse 25-30 times using the pulse function, ensuring it resembles rice but doesn’t become mushy.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced bell pepper and garlic, continuing to sauté for another 5 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned.
- Stir in the tomato paste, cilantro, lime juice, broth, and seasonings, mixing well to combine.
- Add the riced cauliflower and stir thoroughly, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
- Let the mixture simmer, uncovered, on low heat for about 10 minutes until the cauliflower is tender but still slightly crisp.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy!
