Here is a simple, fast recipe for a tasty side dish.
introduction
This Quick & Easy Mexican Cauliflower Rice is light and full of flavor. It cooks fast and works for weeknights. If you like quick rice dishes, try our quick and easy chicken fried rice for another simple meal idea.
why make this recipe
This recipe is low in carbs, full of vegetables, and ready in about 15 minutes. It keeps well and fits many diets. It uses common spices and fresh cilantro for bright flavor. It also joins many other simple dishes in the quick and easy recipes family.
how to make Quick & Easy Mexican Cauliflower Rice
Follow short steps and cook on the stove. Use riced cauliflower for a rice-like texture. Stir often and season to taste.
Ingredients :
- 1 head of cauliflower, grated or riced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions :
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder, cooking for another minute.
- Add the riced cauliflower to the skillet, stirring to combine, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
how to serve Quick & Easy Mexican Cauliflower Rice
Serve hot as a side with grilled chicken, tacos, or beans. You can put it under fajitas or spoon it into bowls with avocado and salsa. It also works as a base for a protein bowl.
how to store Quick & Easy Mexican Cauliflower Rice
Cool to room temperature, then place in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warm.
tips to make Quick & Easy Mexican Cauliflower Rice
- Don’t overcook the cauliflower. Stop when it is tender but still has some bite.
- Use fresh spices for best flavor.
- If the cauliflower is wet, drain it on paper towels so the rice does not get soggy.
- For more flavor, squeeze a little lime over the finished rice or add a pinch of smoked paprika.
- For a richer dish, try a cheesy mix like cheesy cauliflower rice with sausage.
variation (if any)
- Add corn and black beans for more texture and color.
- Stir in cooked shrimp or shredded chicken for a full meal.
- Make it spicy by adding chopped jalapeño or extra chili powder.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen riced cauliflower?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Store in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
Q: Is this recipe low carb?
A: Yes. Cauliflower is a low-carb substitute for rice.
Q: Can I add tomatoes?
A: Yes. Add diced tomatoes in step 4 and cook until warmed through.
Conclusion
This simple Mexican cauliflower rice is fast, healthy, and full of flavor. For another similar recipe with tips and variations, see this Easy Keto Mexican Cauliflower Rice Skillet Recipe | Wicked Spatula.
Print
Quick & Easy Mexican Cauliflower Rice
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fast, flavorful, low-carb side dish that pairs well with various proteins and tacos.
Ingredients
- 1 head of cauliflower, grated or riced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder, cooking for another minute.
- Add the riced cauliflower to the skillet, stirring to combine, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
Don’t overcook the cauliflower; stop when it is tender but still has some bite. Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cauliflower rice, low carb, side dish, Mexican, quick recipe