BHA & BHT Free Paleo Smoky Paprika Cauliflower Rice Pilaf
Cauliflower rice done right is a genuinely satisfying thing, and the smoked paprika and cumin here give it a deep, savory warmth that makes it feel like so much more than a grain substitute. The trick to getting that lightly golden, fluffy texture — rather than a soggy pile — is pressing the moisture out of the riced cauliflower before it ever hits the pan, and this recipe walks you through exactly that. Avocado oil, fresh garlic, and a squeeze of lemon at the finish keep every ingredient clean and straightforward, with no preservatives or synthetic additives hiding in the mix. That matters more than people realize with spice blends and cooking oils, where BHA and BHT can sneak in through processed or shelf-stable shortcuts. Because everything here is built from whole vegetables, single-ingredient spices, and fresh herbs, you stay in full control of what goes into the dish. A handful of chopped parsley scattered over the top at the end adds a bright, fresh contrast to all that smoky depth. It works beautifully as a side for grilled proteins or as a base for a bowl-style meal.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 lbs), cut into florets
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- ½ medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- ¾ tsp fine sea salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (from about ½ lemon)
- 3 tbsp fresh parsley, roughly chopped
Instructions
- 1
Working in batches, pulse the cauliflower florets in a food processor 8–10 times until broken down into rice-sized pieces, about 3–4 cups total. 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 avocado oil in a large (12-inch) skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 4–5 minutes.
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