Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice Recipe
If you’re searching for a side dish that’s quick, comforting, and absolutely packed with flavor, Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice is about to become your new go-to. Imagine golden, buttery cauliflower grains infused with the irresistible aroma of fresh garlic, all finished with a sprinkle of bright parsley and a squeeze of lemon. It’s low-carb, keto-friendly, and comes together in less than 20 minutes—making it a perfect weeknight staple or a foolproof addition to any special meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice keeps things simple, yet each ingredient adds something essential—think rich butter, punchy garlic, and a touch of freshness from parsley and lemon. These basics come together for a dish that feels anything but ordinary.
- Cauliflower: Riced into tiny grains, this is the backbone of our dish, soaking up every bit of buttery, garlicky goodness.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds creamy richness and helps carry that luscious garlic flavor throughout the rice.
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic is key for deep, aromatic flavor—don’t skimp on it!
- Olive Oil: Prevents the butter from browning too quickly and brings a subtle fruity note.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for making all the other flavors pop—taste and adjust as you go.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbal finish.
- Lemon Juice (optional): Just a squeeze brightens the whole dish and balances the richness.
How to Make Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Start by heating your butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling gently, add the minced garlic. Stir constantly for 30 to 60 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant—watch it closely so it doesn’t burn and turn bitter. This is where the magic begins, as the kitchen fills with that mouthwatering garlic aroma.
Step 2: Cook the Cauliflower Rice
Add your riced cauliflower right into the skillet, tossing it so every grain is coated with the garlic butter. Season with a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring every so often, until the cauliflower is just tender but not mushy. You want it to have a little bite—think of it like perfectly cooked rice, but with a lighter, fluffier texture.
Step 3: Finish with Freshness
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in chopped fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if you like. This simple step wakes everything up, adding a pop of green and a hint of brightness that takes the Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice to the next level. Serve it up while it’s warm and let everyone dig into this garlicky, buttery, veggie-packed delight!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Try shaving a bit of Parmesan on top, scattering some toasted pine nuts, or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat. These little finishes make your Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dish is endlessly versatile. It’s a fantastic companion for grilled chicken, seared shrimp, or a juicy steak. For a vegetarian plate, pair it with a fried egg or sautéed mushrooms. You can even use it as a base for stir-fries or curries for an easy, low-carb meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl! Spoon your Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice into roasted bell pepper halves, serve it in lettuce wraps, or use it as a layer in a veggie-packed casserole. It’s also excellent in meal prep bowls with roasted veggies and your favorite protein.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have leftovers? Just pop the cooled rice into an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get even better as they mingle, making tomorrow’s lunch a treat.
Freezing
If you want to freeze Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It’ll keep for about one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the rice in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small splash of water or broth to help it steam and become fluffy again. A quick stir and it’s ready to serve, still loaded with buttery, garlicky flavor!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen riced cauliflower is a great shortcut. Just toss it straight into the skillet—no need to thaw. You may need to cook it a minute or two longer to evaporate excess moisture.
Is Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice really low-carb?
Yes, it’s perfect for low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets. You get all the satisfaction of a rice dish with just a fraction of the carbs—plus, it’s packed with veggies!
How do I prevent the cauliflower rice from getting soggy?
Keep the heat at medium and don’t cover the pan, so any moisture can evaporate. Stir occasionally, but avoid overcooking—5 to 7 minutes is usually just right for tender, fluffy grains.
What proteins go best with Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice?
This dish is a blank canvas! Try it with grilled salmon, baked chicken, sautéed tofu, or even a fried egg for a quick, protein-packed meal.
Can I make Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice dairy-free?
Definitely. Swap the butter for your favorite plant-based alternative, like vegan butter or extra olive oil—the garlic and herbs will still shine through beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Give Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice a try and you’ll see just how flavorful, flexible, and downright craveable a simple veggie side can be. I hope it finds a regular spot at your table—don’t be surprised if it becomes a household favorite!
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Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice is a quick and healthy low-carb side dish featuring tender riced cauliflower sautéed in garlic-infused butter and olive oil. This flavorful and versatile recipe is perfect as a light vegetable side or a base for your favorite protein, with optional fresh parsley and lemon juice to brighten the dish.
Ingredients
Cauliflower Rice
- 1 medium head cauliflower, riced (about 4 cups)
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Heat Butter and Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter along with the olive oil to create a flavorful base for the cauliflower rice.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant, ensuring it does not burn to maintain a mild garlic flavor.
- Add Cauliflower Rice and Season: Stir in the riced cauliflower and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Cook Cauliflower: Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender yet retains a slight bite, avoiding a mushy texture.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and mix in chopped fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired for a fresh, bright finish. Serve warm as a side dish or alongside your favorite protein.
Notes
- Use store-bought pre-riced cauliflower to save prep time.
- For extra flavor, stir in some grated Parmesan cheese or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
