Shellfish Free Cauliflower Rice with Garlic & Herbs
Cauliflower rice has a reputation for being bland filler, but this version is genuinely craveable — golden at the edges, fragrant with garlic, and finished with fresh parsley, thyme, and a bright hit of lemon juice. The trick is pressing out as much moisture as possible before it hits the pan, which is what gives you that lightly crispy texture instead of a soggy, steamed result. Coconut oil adds a subtle richness that plays beautifully against the herbs, and the optional turmeric gives the whole dish a warm, golden color that looks stunning on the plate. Because every ingredient here is a whole, single-item food — a head of cauliflower, fresh herbs, garlic, a squeeze of lemon — there's zero guesswork about hidden seafood derivatives or shared-facility concerns that can make packaged grain alternatives tricky. It works as a low-carb base under a saucy protein, a simple side alongside roasted vegetables, or honestly just eaten straight from the skillet. The food processor method makes prep fast, but a box grater works just as well if you prefer to keep the cleanup minimal.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 lb), cut into florets
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp fine sea salt, plus more to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Working in two batches, pulse the cauliflower florets in a food processor until broken down into pieces roughly the size of rice grains, about 8–10 short pulses. Alternatively, grate the florets on the large holes of a box grater. Spread the riced cauliflower on a clean kitchen towel and press firmly to remove as much moisture as possible.
- 2
Heat the coconut oil in a large (12-inch) skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden at the edges, about 1 minute — watch closely, as it can brown quickly.
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