Crazy for Cauliflower Rice

I know cauliflower rice might seem boring. And I know it’s been around the block as a trendy, diet-friendly, veggie-full alternative to carbs like rice. But in my opinion it doesn’t have to be an alternative to anything. It’s just downright delicious. Here are my tips:

• BUTTER! I’m an extra-virgin olive oil gal all the way, but for cauliflower rice I prefer butter.
• Add CRUNCH! I love to add sliced almonds, chopped walnuts, or peanuts for texture.
• Fresh HERBS: As always, herbs are a fantastic way to add flavor and freshness without adding calories.
• ROAST your cauliflower: Add more complex, caramelized flavors to your “rice” by roasting the cauliflower in chunks before processing it. Just be sure to cut back on your stove-top cooking time.
• GO CRAZY! Experiment with flavors and ingredients. Boost the protein by adding cooked ground turkey, shredded chicken, peeled shrimp, tofu, or canned beans. Hit up your freezer for frozen peas, edamame, or corn kernels. Or throw in some chopped fresh tomatoes or spinach. And don’t forget an acid—a dash of your favorite vinegar or citrus juice does the trick!

Here is my go-to recipe. I even eat it cold from the fridge.

Herbed Cauliflower Rice

This low carb veggie side dish is also a fresh substitute for rice. Packed with fresh herbs and garlic for flavor, the toasted nuts add an extra crunch. Try it cold from the fridge for a quick and light lunch.

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Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Ingredients

  

• 1 head cauliflower, core removed
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 1 stalk celery, thinly sliced
• 1/2 medium red onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped greens- arugula, dill, cilantro, parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts, toasted-sliced almonds, walnuts, pecans, peanuts
• 1 Tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

 

• Cut cauliflower into large pieces and add to a food processor. Pulse until cauliflower resembles a rice like appearance. Set aside.
• In a large skillet melt butter over medium high heat. Add celery and onion. Cook for two minutes until veggies soften. Add garlic and cook one minute more.
• Add cauliflower rice, stirring often until rice becomes tender begins to brown; about 10 minutes.
• Stir in herbs, toasted nuts and lemon juice. Season as desired with salt and pepper.

Keyword cauliflower rice, easy, quick, side dishes, veggie sides