Cauliflower rice with olive oil, salt and pepper

Cauliflower rice is a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional rice, simply made by pulsing cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper. It's sautéed until tender and can be enjoyed as a side dish or base for various meals.

21 Apr 2026
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 cauliflower
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 dash black pepper
Cauliflower rice with olive oil, salt and pepper

Cauliflower rice is a fantastic low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional rice. It's simple to make, nutritious, and can be used as a base for countless dishes. In this recipe, we'll show you how to prepare cauliflower rice using just a few basic ingredients: cauliflower, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Begin by removing the leaves and the core of the cauliflower.
- Cut the cauliflower into medium-sized florets.
2. Make the Cauliflower Rice:
- Use a food processor and pulse the cauliflower florets in batches until they reach a rice-like consistency. Be careful not to over-process; you want small, rice-sized pieces.
- Alternatively, you can use a box grater with the medium-sized holes to grate the cauliflower into rice-sized pieces.
3. Cook the Cauliflower Rice:
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the riced cauliflower to the pan.
- Stir the cauliflower rice to coat it well with the olive oil, ensuring even cooking.
4. Season and Sauté:
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt and a dash of black pepper to the cauliflower rice.
- Continue to sauté the cauliflower rice for about 5-7 minutes, or until it's tender but not mushy. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
5. Serve:
- Taste the cauliflower rice and adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more salt or pepper to your preference.
- Once cooked to your desired tenderness, remove the pan from the heat and transfer the cauliflower rice to a serving dish.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve your cauliflower rice as a side dish or as a low-carb substitute for traditional rice in your favorite recipes.

Congratulations! You've just made a delicious and healthy cauliflower rice. This versatile side dish can complement a wide variety of main courses and can even be used as a base for stir-fries or salads. Enjoy your culinary creation, and don’t hesitate to experiment with additional flavors and ingredients.

Cauliflower rice with olive oil, salt and pepper FAQ:

How long do I need to cook cauliflower rice?

Cook the cauliflower rice for about 5-7 minutes over medium heat, stirring frequently until it's tender but not mushy.

What pan size is best for cooking cauliflower rice?

A large skillet or frying pan is ideal to provide enough space for even cooking and to prevent overcrowding.

Can I store leftover cauliflower rice, and how?

Yes, store leftover cauliflower rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

What can I use instead of olive oil in this recipe?

You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or coconut oil for similar results. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly.

Is cauliflower rice a suitable option for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, cauliflower rice is naturally gluten-free, making it a great alternative to traditional rice for those with gluten sensitivities.

Cooking Tips:

- Make sure to thoroughly wash and dry the cauliflower before processing.

- Use a food processor for even-sized 'rice' grains, but if you don't have one, a box grater can also work.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste – you can add garlic powder or herbs for extra flavor.

- If you like your rice to be more on the crispy side, cook it a bit longer in the pan.

- This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep.

Nutrition Facts

2 Servings
Calories 36kcal
Protein 2.89g
Carbohydrates 7g
Fiber 3.01g
Sugar 2.87g
Fat 8g

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