Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here I explain the best ingredients for my cilantro cauliflower rice recipe, what each one does, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.

• Cauliflower Rice – You’ll need about 4 cups of cauliflower rice, which is roughly one medium head. You can also use a bag of frozen cauliflower rice. It works just as well and saves time.
• You can rice your own cauliflower rice (simply pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor or grate with a box grater until it reaches rice size) or buy pre-made cauli rice, either fresh or frozen. This recipe calls for 4 cups of cauliflower rice, which is equivalent to about one head of cauliflower. You can make your own cauliflower rice (instructions can be found in my full guide to cauliflower rice) or use a prepared fresh or frozen cauliflower rice. Or use frozen cauliflower rice.
• Fresh Cilantro – It’s key for that cilantro lime cauliflower rice flavor. If cilantro’s not your thing, try parsley or chives instead.
• Lime – You’ll need the zest and juice from a whole lime. If you only have lemons, they work in a pinch, but they’re just a little different flavor-wise.
• Olive Oil – I usually use olive or avocado oil, but any cooking oil works. I skip seed oils like canola or soybean.
• Garlic – Fresh minced cloves are best, but 1 teaspoon jarred garlic totally works in a pinch.
• Sea Salt & Black Pepper

VARIATION: Want to kick it up a notch?

Try adding diced onions by sautéing them before the garlic. You can also sprinkle in some spices like cumin, chili powder, cayenne, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

How To Make Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice

I have step-by-step photos here to help you visualize the recipe. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.

1. Sauté the garlic. Heat some of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the garlic until it smells amazing (just a minute or so).
2. Add the cauliflower rice. Stir in the cauliflower rice, along with the lime zest, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Cook just until it softens.
3. Finish it off. Once it’s done, I take it off the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro to make the perfect cilantro lime cauliflower rice.

Serving Ideas

I love whipping up a burrito bowl or taco bowl with cauliflower cilantro lime rice. I usually load it up with guac, fresh salsa, and whatever else I’m craving that day.

It also makes a great side for taco salad, or you can serve it with one of my favorite Mexican-inspired mains. Think carne asada, beef barbacoa, chicken fajitas, or cilantro lime chicken.