This is my take on Erin’s version of green cauliflower rice, with a generous handful of chopped herbs thrown in at the end for even more flavor. I usually add cilantro, so the “rice” pairs well with Asian and Mexican-inspired meals. You can sub in flat leaf parsley to go with Italian food, or a mixture of parsley, dill, and/or mint for a Mediterranean or Middle Eastern meal.
What Is Cauliflower Rice?
Cauliflower rice isn’t really rice at all. It’s just cauliflower, broken down into little bits that somewhat resemble rice grains or couscous. You can chop the cauliflower up with a knife, run it over a box grater, or make fast work of it with a food processor. A lot of people eat cauliflower rice as a low-carb substitute for regular rice, and when it’s prepared the right way, it can be totally delicious! You can find cauliflower already riced in the freezer section of most grocery stores, or make it at home. Just follow our recipe on How to Make Cauliflower Rice.
Tip for Tastier Cauliflower Rice!
This recipe uses frozen chopped spinach, which you’ll defrost in the microwave before adding to the skillet with the other ingredients. Once you microwave the spinach, squeeze out as much liquid as you can—this will make for tastier cauliflower rice!
Ways to Adapt This Recipe
This green cauliflower rice gets its color from spinach, green onions, and fresh cilantro. Feel free to experiment with adding other vegetables, too.
Add finely chopped red or yellow onions, or shallots.Add minced garlic or ginger.Throw in colorful veggies like bell peppers or carrots.Try different leafy greens like arugula or kale; just make sure they’re finely chopped.If you’re not a fan of cilantro, use your favorite herb.
How to Make Cauliflower Rice a Meal
You can serve cauliflower rice with any meal that you’d otherwise pair with regular rice. I like to have it as a side dish along with pulled pork, roasted chicken, or baked salmon. It’s also a fantastic base for a burrito bowl, with beans and all of the usual burrito fixings piled on top.
How to Store and Freeze Cauliflower Rice
You can store your cauliflower rice in the refrigerator for up to four days—it heats up great in the microwave or in a skillet on the stove. You can also freeze it in zip-top bags or other freezer-safe containers for up to two months, then reheat in the microwave.
More Great Ways to Eat Cauliflower
Best Cauliflower Pizza Crust Cauliflower Gnocchi (Trader Joe’s Copycat) Cauliflower Steak Sandwiches Cauliflower Fried “Rice” Cauliflower Mashed “Potatoes” with Brown Butter Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos with Ranch Sauce
Transfer the spinach to a colander or mesh strainer, and use the back of a spoon to squeeze out as much moisture as you can. Add the spinach and sauté for 2 more minutes. Turn off the heat, then stir in the chopped herbs. Taste for seasoning, adding more salt and/or pepper if needed.