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If you’re looking for a tasty, low-carb side dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor, Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice is a must-try. It’s light, buttery, and perfectly garlicky with just the right pop of freshness from parsley and lemon juice. Whether you’re cutting carbs, going gluten-free, or simply trying to add more veggies to your meals, this simple recipe comes together in minutes and pairs well with just about anything. A low-carb, flavorful side dish that’s quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners! It will feed 4 to 6 people, depending on the size of the cauliflower head.

Ingredients to Make Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice

1 medium head of cauliflower
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon juice, to serve

Instructions to Make Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice:

Prepare the Cauliflower:
Start by thoroughly washing the cauliflower under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim off the leaves and cut the cauliflower into medium-sized florets. Try to keep the florets relatively uniform so they process evenly later on.

Create Cauliflower Rice:
Pat the florets dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture is important—it helps prevent the cauliflower rice from becoming soggy when cooked.
Next, place the florets in a food processor. Pulse in short bursts until the cauliflower resembles rice or couscous. Avoid over-processing into a purée. Work in batches if needed to prevent overcrowding.

Sauté the Garlic:
Heat a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter—this combination gives the dish a rich, slightly nutty flavor. Once the butter has melted and the oil is shimmering, stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Don’t let it brown too much, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.

Cook the Cauliflower Rice:
Add the riced cauliflower to the pan and stir to coat in the garlicky oil and butter. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Sauté for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender with a slight bite—like al dente pasta—and a light toasty aroma.

Add Final Touches:
Turn off the heat and stir in freshly chopped parsley for a bright, herbal contrast. Transfer to a serving bowl.

Finish & Serve:
Right before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a pop of acidity. Serve warm as a light, low-carb side or base for your favorite protein or veggie stir-fry. Enjoy!

Is Cauliflower Rice Actually Healthy?

Yes! Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb, low-calorie alternative to traditional rice. It’s high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants while being naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly. It’s especially useful for those trying to reduce starches or increase their vegetable intake.

How to Make Cauliflower Rice Not Soggy

The key is to pat the cauliflower dry after washing to remove excess moisture. Avoid over-processing in the food processor—short pulses are best. Don’t overcrowd the pan, and cook over medium heat so moisture evaporates as it cooks. This keeps your cauliflower rice fluffy instead of soggy.

Why Does Cauliflower Rice Make Me Bloated?

Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable and contains fiber and certain complex carbohydrates (like raffinose) that can cause bloating or gas in some people, especially when eaten in large quantities. To reduce discomfort, start with smaller portions and cook them thoroughly to aid digestion.

Easy Variations:

Cheesy Cauliflower Rice – Stir in a handful of shredded Parmesan or cheddar before serving.
Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or sauté with a diced jalapeño.
Asian-Inspired – Swap parsley for green onions and add a splash of soy sauce or coconut aminos.
Mediterranean Style – Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, chopped olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
Protein Boost – Add cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or a fried egg on top for a full meal.

Garlic Butter Cauliflower Rice is the perfect base for endless flavor combos—and a delicious way to sneak in more veggies! Looking for more healthy side dishes? Be sure to check out my post on Homemade Greek Seasoning Recipe to flavor your cauliflower rice in new ways!

If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below, snap a photo, and tag me on social media—I always enjoy seeing your creations.