Easy Dishes For Cooking With Cauliflower Rice 

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Cauliflower rice has become a popular low-carb and gluten-free alternative to traditional rice. This nutritious option is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while keeping your meals light and satisfying.

From stir-fries to curry and cauli rice, the recipes maintain the texture and flavor of the original rice recipes. Here, we provide you with some ideas of easy cauliflower rice dishes that not only provide a healthy substitute for grains but also offer endless possibilities for creating tasty and nutritious meals.

1. Cauli Rice Sushi

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Inventing sushi out of cauliflower rice is a top-notch creative idea. Assembling the sushi requires cauli rice and a variety of fresh and colorful ingredients such as sliced vegetables, avocados, and seafood(or any other meat), all packed onto a sheet of seaweed (nori). 

Cauli rice here offers a low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly alternative to traditional sushi rice. So, without guilt, you can enjoy the sushi as much as you want. These visually appealing pieces of goodness are best served with their classic dipping companions soy sauce or tamari.

Related: Easy To Make Rice Dishes From Around The World

2. Silky Cauliflower Rice Risotto

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Who would have ever thought that cauli rice would create a sumptuous alternative to Arborio rice? Simmered in plant-based alternatives such as coconut milk, almond milk, or vegetable broth, the risotto comes out creamy and rich, and for once you won't doubt its risotto-like consistency.

This recipe can be proudly enjoyed by individuals following a plant-based, vegan, or gluten-free diet. Without sacrificing the flavor and creaminess, the luxurious and silky texture of the risotto will provide a sense of home-cooked comfort food.

3. Mexican Cauliflower Rice

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If you are following a Whole30 plan or on a Paleo diet, a bowl of Mexican Cauliflower Rice is all you need to make your day fulfilling. Prepare a vegetarian version or add some meat protein, the choices are relentless. 

Common components of this Mexican dish that should not be missed on include diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, bell peppers, and a mix of traditional spices such as cumin, paprika, and chili powder. The dish pairs well with a variety of Mexican-inspired toppings or can be served as a side dish to complement main courses such as tacos, fajitas, or grilled proteins.

4. Coconut & Lime Cauliflower Rice

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A next-level take on the mild and subtle flavored cauli rice, this recipe is our favorite. This vibrant tropical spin on the classic cauliflower rice imparts exotic flavors reminiscent of Southeast Asian and Caribbean cuisines.

The coconut milk in which the rice simmers infuses the rice with creamy richness. The addition of fresh lime zest and juice on the other hand provides a zesty and citrusy undertone. Each bite of resulting light and fragrant cauliflower rice comes out exceptionally smooth and we have enjoyed them thoroughly till the end.

5. Cauliflower Rice Stuffed Peppers

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It's no new news how endured stuffed peppers are. This classic dish, originating from various cuisines worldwide, involves filling bell peppers with a flavorful mixture typically featuring rice, meats, vegetables, and seasonings.

The use of inventive alternative cauli rice only does good for the recipe. Low in carbohydrates, the cauli rice adds to the healthy aspect of the meal and provides a wholesome and satisfying meal. Add meat, and vegetables to the stuffing and load it with cheese. 

A crunchy snack to enjoy any time of the day, the peppers come out of the oven as a visually stunning dish with melted cheese oozing out of them.

Related: Creative Ways To Stuff Your Bell Peppers

6. Stove Top Cauliflower Rice Enchiladas

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Another Mexican dish on the row, the recipe offers a health-conscious and inventive departure from traditional enchiladas. The cauliflower rice is skillfully seasoned and combined with ingredients like black beans, diced vegetables, and spices, creating a flavorful mixture that retains the heartiness of the original.

While the oven-baked version tends to have a slightly different texture due to the baking process, stove-top cauliflower Rice Enchiladas provide a practical solution for those seeking a wholesome and flavorful meal in a shorter time frame.

Rolled into tortillas, these enchiladas are then smothered in enchilada sauce and topped with melted cheese. With no compromise on the flavors, a rich and zest experience reminiscent of the classic awaits you!

7. Cauliflower Rice Balls

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You can munch on this snack or appetizer made of cauliflower rice and worry about the calorie intake the least. The preparation does not require anything extensive. Gather the ingredients in your pantry and in very little time prepare these fulfilling, healthy snacks. 

To craft these savory bites, cauliflower rice is combined with flavorful ingredients such as grated cheese, herbs, and spices, forming a well-blended mixture that can be shaped into small balls. These cauliflower rice balls are often baked or fried(air fry for the best healthy option) to achieve a golden and crispy exterior while maintaining a tender and flavorful center.

8. Buffalo Cauliflower Rice Dip

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Buffalo Cauliflower Rice Dip replaces traditional poultry with cauliflower rice as the star ingredient. The cauliflower rice provides a unique texture that when seasoned and roasted emulates the tenderness found in the classic buffalo chicken dip. 

The combination of buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and shredded cheese still delivers the tangy and creamy elements characteristic of the traditional recipe and falls among the dips that are the main event. Overall, you get a familiar taste with a lighter and vegetable-centric approach.

9. Moroccan Inspired Cauliflower Rice Salad

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A grain-free Moroccan salad comes out as the traditional recipe is substituted by the cauliflower rice. Except for the vegetables and Moroccan spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, the salad is also adorned with golden raisins or chopped dried fruits, providing a sweet contrast to the salad. Dress with a zesty combination of lemon juice and olive oil and the salad gets ready.

10. Cauliflower Rice Pizza

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Cauliflower crust pizza is not a new buzz; it has been on trend on social media from time to time. This revolutionary alternative to the classic pizza experience has been trusted to be a low-carb alternative and remains just another excuse to enjoy the classic- the pizza.

The innovation lies in the crust, where cauliflower rice is utilized to make the thin crust. Add toppings and cheese amount of your choice, bake and without compromising on taste enjoy every piece of Cauliflower Rice Pizza.

11. Crusty Baked Cauliflower Rice and Farro

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Farro is an ancient grain that contributes a chewy and hearty texture. The contrast in textures becomes particularly noteworthy in this recipe as the cauli rice offers a lighter and more delicate texture compared to traditional grains. It is inherently tender and absorbs flavors well during the cooking process.

The nutritional benefits of both ingredients are wondersome and as the dish is baked, a crusty layer develops creating a golden and slightly crispy exterior that complements the tender and flavorful interior.

12. Low Calorie Shrimp Fried Cauliflower Rice

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If you have shrimp in your refrigerator, then this recipe is obviously for you. Sauté the cauliflower rice in a pan until it's slightly tender and most importantly remove excess moisture as it is crucial to achieve the right texture in the final dish. 

Cooke shrimp in your favorite way, scramble some eggs and bring all the ingredients together. Pour in low-sodium soy sauce for that classic savory flavor. Serve the rice hot and enjoy the satisfying flavors of shrimp fried rice with a healthier twist.

13. Giant Baked Cauliflower Rice Arancini

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The traditional arancini also make use of Arborio rice. The cauliflower rice in this recipe gives a unique texture and flavor to the arancini while the cheesy goodness in the center remains intact. The cauliflower adds a slightly nutty and earthy taste, and when baked, it provides a crispy exterior with a tender interior.

Moreover, you can also bake the arancini instead of frying if you are looking for a healthier alternative. Once the giant baked cauliflower rice arancini is cooked to perfection, serve them hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

14. Cauliflower Rice Breakfast Porridge

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Cooking the cauliflower rice with creamy almond milk or coconut milk can make a sumptuous morning meal. Topped with fresh berries, nuts, or seeds, cauliflower rice breakfast porridge provides a unique addition that offers both a satisfying and nourishing start to the day.

A touch of sweetness from natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup can enhance the resulting flavor. Easy to prepare, opt for this nutritious and light breakfast option when you want to have something new on your breakfast table. 

15. Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

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Recreating the beloved Chipotle cilantro lime cauliflower rice at home brings the vibrant flavors of the popular dish to your kitchen. The dish is Chipotle's signature side and is renowned for the freshness that comes with the use of zesty cilantro and bright lime.

To achieve this, cauliflower rice is sautéed until tender, then tossed with freshly chopped cilantro and a generous squeeze of lime juice. Whether paired with your favorite protein, used as a burrito bowl base, or enjoyed as a standalone side, this recipe allows you to savor the familiar taste in a health-conscious and homemade setting.

16. Spicy Chicken Curry with Cauliflower Rice

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Chicken curry and rice are a deadly combo. Just imagine cutting out carbs of the casual rice, cauliflower rice is here to save us all. This cauliflower recipe is equally able to absorb the bold flavors of the curry while maintaining a lighter texture.

Prepare spicy chicken curry(based on the amount of heat you can handle) and use your favorite sauce for the creaminess. The combination gets extra flavorful on a chilly day, serve hot and let the spices warm you up for the day. 

17. Whole30 Thai Chicken Cauliflower Rice

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Vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine check. This recipe features succulent pieces of chicken infused with aromatic ingredients like lemongrass, ginger, and garlic. The cauliflower rice acts as a neutral and absorbent base that perfectly complements the bold Thai flavors.

The chicken should be marinated in a Whole30-approved blend of coconut aminos, fish sauce, and lime juice to ensure an authentic taste. Stir-fry the marinated chicken and then incorporate the cauliflower rice to soak up the savory juices.

Add vegetables and most importantly season with Thai-inspired spices. Packed with sweet, salty, and spicy notes, a Whole30 meal gets ready to save your day.

18. Cauliflower Rice Patties

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This innovative recipe is as simple as the regular rice patties. The process typically involves mixing cauliflower rice with eggs, breadcrumbs or almond flour, and an array of seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs. The mixture is then shaped into patties and pan-fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

19. Cauliflower Rice and Cheese Muffins

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Just need to swap regular flour with cauliflower rice and you get healthy muffins. As in traditional recipes, cauliflower rice is combined with shredded cheese, eggs, and a touch of baking powder. The mixture is then spooned into muffin tins and baked until the tops are golden brown.

20. Loaded Cauliflower Rice Casserole

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How can we miss out on the casseroles, right? This culinary creation takes the familiar concept of a loaded baked potato casserole and transforms it into a health-conscious masterpiece.

Centered around cauliflower rice, it becomes the star, absorbing the savory goodness of crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, tangy sour cream, and a fresh bite of green onions. Bake the dish and enjoy the perfect flavor fusion. 

Also read: Easy To Make Rice Dishes From Around The World