Simple Cauliflower Fried Rice Recipe

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

A quick and easy alternative to traditional fried rice, this Simple Cauliflower Fried Rice Recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients.

Brianna Tate

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:22:15.669Z

This Simple Cauliflower Fried Rice is not only delicious but also a healthy twist on a classic dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Low-carb and packed with veggies
  • Quick to prepare, ready in just 25 minutes
  • A versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite proteins

What Makes Cauliflower Fried Rice a Great Choice

Cauliflower fried rice is an excellent alternative to traditional fried rice, especially for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake. This dish not only satisfies your cravings for fried rice but also packs a nutritional punch. Cauliflower is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy meal.

Another reason to love cauliflower fried rice is its versatility. You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite proteins, such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu. This adaptability allows you to create a meal that caters to your taste preferences and dietary needs, ensuring that it can be enjoyed by everyone at the table.

Tips for Perfect Cauliflower Rice

To achieve the best texture for your cauliflower rice, it’s essential to avoid over-processing the cauliflower. Grate it until it resembles rice grains but be careful not to blend it into a puree. This will ensure that your fried rice has the right consistency and a delightful bite.

Another helpful tip is to make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the cauliflower. This helps to achieve that perfect stir-fried flavor and texture. If the pan is too cool, the cauliflower can become mushy instead of achieving that desired crispness.

Serving Suggestions

Cauliflower fried rice can be served as a standalone dish or paired with your favorite protein for a complete meal. Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost, or serve it alongside a flavorful stir-fry for a more substantial feast. The bright flavors of the dish complement various cuisines, making it a versatile option for any dinner.

For an extra layer of flavor, top your cauliflower fried rice with a fried egg or some avocado slices. This not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also adds a creamy texture that balances the dish beautifully. Don’t forget to sprinkle some sesame seeds or chopped cilantro on top for an added pop of flavor!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head of cauliflower, grated
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prep your ingredients before starting to cook.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your fried rice:

Prepare the Cauliflower

Grate the cauliflower using a box grater or food processor until it resembles rice.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Cook the Vegetables

Add the mixed vegetables and cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender.

Add Garlic and Cauliflower

Stir in the minced garlic and grated cauliflower, cooking for another 5-7 minutes.

Season the Dish

Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Finish Up

Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and serve warm.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious cauliflower fried rice!

Nutritional Benefits

This Simple Cauliflower Fried Rice Recipe serves as a fantastic low-carb option that allows you to enjoy a beloved dish without the extra calories. Cauliflower is not only low in calories but also high in fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, making it easier to maintain a healthy diet.

In addition to its low-calorie content, cauliflower is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. These benefits contribute to overall health by potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Incorporating more vegetables like cauliflower into your meals is a simple yet effective way to enhance your nutrient intake.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing cauliflower fried rice is easy. Simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This makes it a convenient meal prep option for busy weekdays. When stored properly, the flavors continue to meld, making the leftovers just as tasty as when freshly made.

To reheat, you can use a microwave or a skillet. If using a skillet, heat over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir for a few minutes until heated through. This way, you'll ensure that your cauliflower fried rice remains flavorful and doesn't dry out.

Creative Variations

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are countless variations you can explore. Try adding different vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different sauces, such as teriyaki or chili garlic, to give your fried rice a unique twist.

For a spicy kick, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha. Additionally, incorporating nuts like cashews or peanuts can add a delightful crunch and richness to the dish. Don't hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, simply use a vegan soy sauce and skip any animal protein.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze cauliflower fried rice?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for more variety.

Simple Cauliflower Fried Rice Recipe

A quick and easy alternative to traditional fried rice, this Simple Cauliflower Fried Rice Recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration15 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Brianna Tate

Recipe Type: Healthy & Light

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 medium head of cauliflower, grated
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
  4. 2 green onions, chopped
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  7. 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  8. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Grate the cauliflower using a box grater or food processor until it resembles rice.

Step 02

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 03

Add the mixed vegetables and cook for about 3-4 minutes until tender.

Step 04

Stir in the minced garlic and grated cauliflower, cooking for another 5-7 minutes.

Step 05

Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 06

Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and serve warm.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 4g