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Spicy Cauliflower Rice

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  • Author: Kim Cooks Easy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Sautéed
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Description

This Spicy Cauliflower Rice is a light, flavorful, and low-carb alternative to traditional rice. It’s packed with bold spices and a bit of heat, making it a perfect side dish or base for your favorite protein!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 cups riced cauliflower (store-bought or freshly riced)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for more spice)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon lime juice (optional, for freshness)
  • Chopped cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  • Heat the oil – In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Sauté aromatics – Add onion, garlic, and jalapeño. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
  • Add spices – Stir in paprika, chili powder, cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Cook cauliflower rice – Add the riced cauliflower and stir well to coat with spices. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy.
  • Finish & serve – Remove from heat and stir in lime juice. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve!

Notes

  • Make it even spicier: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Want a Tex-Mex twist? Stir in ½ cup black beans and ½ cup diced tomatoes.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat.

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~70
  • Sugar: ~2g
  • Sodium: ~250mg
  • Fat: ~4g
  • Saturated Fat: ~0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~3.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: ~7g
  • Fiber: ~3g
  • Protein: ~2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg