Oh, the allure of cauliflower rice—it’s like a chameleon of the culinary world, adapting to flavors and textures with such grace. When garlic meets lemon and they all get cozy in the oven, it’s like a little symphony of flavors playing just for you. I remember the first time I tried this dish—I was skeptical, but the zingy citrus and earthy garlic won me over, making it a staple in my kitchen ever since.
Steps
- Begin by removing the core from the cauliflower, then chop it into florets. Place small batches of the florets into a food processor, pulsing until they are finely chopped and resemble the texture of rice or couscous. Avoid over-processing to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly coat a large sheet pan with cooking spray. On the prepared pan, mix together the riced cauliflower, olive oil, minced garlic, and salt, spreading the mixture evenly in a single layer.
- Roast the cauliflower rice in the oven for 25 minutes, stirring it halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning until it turns golden. Once done, remove from the oven and drizzle with fresh lemon juice and garnish with parsley before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh lemon juice, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnishing
Nutritional Values
Calories: 248 kcal | Carbohydrates: 27 g | Protein: 10 g | Fat: 14 g | Sodium: 699 mg | Fiber: 12 g
FAQ
- What is cauliflower rice and how is it made?
- Cauliflower rice consists of small pieces of cauliflower chopped to resemble rice grains. It’s a low-carb, grain-free alternative to traditional rice. You can prepare it by using a food processor to pulse cauliflower florets until they reach a rice-like texture. Pre-cut versions are available in stores, though making it at home can enhance flavor and shelf life.
- How do I roast cauliflower rice?
- To roast cauliflower rice, preheat your oven to 425°F. Mix the riced cauliflower with olive oil, garlic, and salt, then spread it on a greased sheet pan. Roast for about 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until it turns golden. Top with fresh lemon juice and parsley before serving.
- What dishes pair well with roasted cauliflower rice?
- Roasted cauliflower rice is a versatile side dish that complements a variety of main courses, including roasted chicken, beef, pork chops, steak, and fish.
- Can I use frozen cauliflower rice for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower rice, although fresh homemade cauliflower rice often yields the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure it’s thawed and any excess moisture is removed before roasting.
- Can I double this roasted cauliflower rice recipe?
- Certainly! To double the recipe, simply use two sheet pans to ensure the cauliflower rice roasts evenly without overcrowding.
Tips
- When using a food processor to make cauliflower rice, process the cauliflower in small batches to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- If you plan to double the recipe, make sure to use two sheet pans to ensure even roasting.
- For the best flavor, try making your cauliflower rice from fresh cauliflower rather than using frozen, as it tends to taste better.
- Remember to stir the cauliflower rice halfway through roasting to ensure it cooks evenly and achieves a golden color.
Equipment
- Food Processor – Used to rice the cauliflower.
- Large Sheet Pan – Used for roasting the cauliflower rice in the oven.
