Citric Acid Free Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice
Cauliflower rice gets a bright, herby makeover here, and the result is so satisfying you might forget it ever started as a humble head of brassica. Coconut oil and golden garlic lay down a savory, aromatic base, while fresh lime juice, lime zest, and a generous handful of cilantro bring everything to life right at the end of cooking. The key move — pressing the riced cauliflower in a kitchen towel before it hits the pan — is what gives you those lightly golden, dry grains instead of a soggy pile, so don't skip it. For anyone navigating a citric acid restriction, this recipe is a genuine win: the bright, tangy punch comes entirely from real limes rather than the processed citric acid additive that sneaks into so many packaged seasonings and store-bought rice blends. Every ingredient is whole and straightforward, so there's no label-reading anxiety involved. It works beautifully as a base for grilled proteins, tucked under a saucy stew, or eaten straight from the skillet — which, honestly, is hard to resist.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 medium head cauliflower (about 2 lbs), cut into florets
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 1–2 limes)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
Instructions
- 1
Working in two batches, pulse the cauliflower florets in a food processor until broken down into rice-sized pieces, about 8–10 short pulses per batch. 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 excess moisture.
- 2
Heat the coconut oil in a large (12-inch) skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden at the edges, about 1 minute. Watch closely, as garlic can brown quickly.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!