Spanish Cauliflower Rice Recipe

Introduction

Spanish Cauliflower Rice is a light and flavorful twist on traditional Spanish rice, perfect for a low-carb or gluten-free meal. This vibrant dish combines sautéed vegetables and spices with tender cauliflower rice for a quick and healthy side or main.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cauliflower rice
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Step 2: Stir in the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, and cumin. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the spices become fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the cauliflower rice to the skillet, mixing well with the vegetable and spice mixture. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy.
4. Step 4: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve warm as a side dish or light main course.

Tips & Variations

• For extra protein, add cooked shrimp or diced chicken during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Use fresh tomatoes if available, but canned diced tomatoes work just as well.
• Add a handful of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish.
• Adjust the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

Storage

Store leftover Spanish Cauliflower Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking to maintain the cauliflower’s texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower rice for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cauliflower rice works well. Just thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before cooking to prevent sogginess.

Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?

Absolutely. Cauliflower rice is low in carbs, making this dish a great choice for those following a ketogenic or low-carb diet.

Spanish Cauliflower Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 133 reviews

This vibrant Spanish Cauliflower Rice is a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional Spanish rice. Made with fresh cauliflower rice, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices, this dish is sautéed to bring out the rich flavors and can serve as a perfect side or a light main dish for those seeking a nutritious vegetable-packed meal.

• Author: Ria
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Spanish
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 4 cups cauliflower rice (about 1 medium head cauliflower, grated or processed)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced

Spices

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Other Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Begin by chopping the onion finely, dicing the tomatoes, and mincing the garlic cloves. Process or grate the cauliflower into rice-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
2. Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Add tomatoes and spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes along with smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder if using, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for 5-6 minutes until the tomatoes soften and create a cohesive base.
4. Cook cauliflower rice: Add the cauliflower rice to the skillet and gently stir to combine with the tomato and spice mixture. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the cauliflower softens but retains a slight bite.
5. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the cauliflower rice and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or spices if desired. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if using. Serve warm as a side or main dish.

Notes

• For added protein, consider stirring in cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken.
• This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheats nicely in a skillet or microwave.
• Use fresh spices for the best flavor impact.
• To make it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the other spices.

Keywords: Spanish cauliflower rice, low carb rice alternative, healthy side dish, cauliflower rice recipe, gluten free Spanish rice