Turmeric Cauliflower Rice

Featured in: Easy Side Creations

This vibrant turmeric cauliflower rice offers a nutritious twist on traditional grains, transforming fresh cauliflower into golden, aromatic pieces infused with warming spices. The earthy turmeric pairs beautifully with cumin and garlic, while a finish of fresh lemon juice and herbs brightens each bite. Ready in just 20 minutes, this low-carb alternative works perfectly alongside curries, grilled proteins, or roasted vegetables, making it an ideal choice for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep sessions.

Updated on Mon, 26 Jan 2026 13:26:21 GMT
Golden turmeric cauliflower rice, vibrant and fluffy, perfect for healthy grain-free meals. Save to Pinterest
Golden turmeric cauliflower rice, vibrant and fluffy, perfect for healthy grain-free meals. | felizmsemen.com

Experience the vibrant flavors of this Turmeric Cauliflower Rice, a stunning, anti-inflammatory side dish that brings a burst of golden color to your table. By transforming fresh cauliflower into fluffy grains and tossing them with aromatic seasonings, you create a light and flavorful alternative to traditional rice that is both healthy and satisfying.

Golden turmeric cauliflower rice, vibrant and fluffy, perfect for healthy grain-free meals. Save to Pinterest
Golden turmeric cauliflower rice, vibrant and fluffy, perfect for healthy grain-free meals. | felizmsemen.com

What's for Dinner Tonight? 🤔

Stop stressing. Get 10 fast recipes that actually work on busy nights.

Free. No spam. Just easy meals.

The combination of toasted cumin, garlic, and a hint of lemon juice elevates the mild taste of cauliflower into something truly special. Whether you are looking for a grain-free base or simply a way to eat more vegetables, this recipe delivers on both nutrition and taste.

Ingredients

Tired of Takeout? 🥡

Get 10 meals you can make faster than delivery arrives. Seriously.

One email. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

  • Vegetables: 1 medium head cauliflower (about 600 g), 1 small onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced).
  • Spices & Seasoning: 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil, 1 teaspoon ground turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and an optional pinch of red chili flakes.
  • Finish & Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, plus the juice of 1/2 lemon.

Instructions

Step 1: Rice the Cauliflower
Place cauliflower florets in a food processor and pulse until the texture resembles rice grains. Work in batches if needed to ensure an even consistency.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Spices
Stir in the ground turmeric, cumin, black pepper, and optional chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and release their natural oils.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Add the riced cauliflower and salt to the skillet. Stir well to coat evenly with the spices and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove from heat. Squeeze over the lemon juice and toss with fresh cilantro or parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To achieve the best texture, use a food processor for speed or a box grater for more control. It is important to work in batches to prevent the cauliflower from turning into a paste. Using a large skillet provides enough surface area to cook the 'rice' evenly without steaming it too much.

Still Scrolling? You'll Love This 👇

Our best 20-minute dinners in one free pack — tried and tested by thousands.

Trusted by 10,000+ home cooks.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily customize this dish by adding green peas, diced bell pepper, or baby spinach for extra nutrients. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, top the finished dish with a handful of toasted slivered almonds or sunflower seeds.

Serviervorschläge

This golden cauliflower rice makes an excellent base for hearty curries, grilled chicken, or roasted Mediterranean vegetables. It can also be enjoyed as a light standalone meal or used as a colorful filling for healthy wraps.

A quick, savory turmeric cauliflower rice side dish with fresh cilantro brightens any plate. Save to Pinterest
A quick, savory turmeric cauliflower rice side dish with fresh cilantro brightens any plate. | felizmsemen.com

This Turmeric Cauliflower Rice is a simple yet elegant way to brighten any plate while keeping your meals light and nutritious. Enjoy the fragrant aroma and the healthy benefits of this versatile fusion side dish!

Recipe Q&A

Can I make this without a food processor?

Yes, you can use a box grater to rice the cauliflower by hand. Simply grate the florets using the medium-sized holes, though this method takes slightly longer than using a food processor.

How long does this keep in the refrigerator?

Store cooled turmeric cauliflower rice in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or oil, or enjoy cold in salads and grain bowls.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this freezes well for up to 2 months. Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat on the stovetet until warmed through.

What other vegetables can I add?

Diced bell peppers, green peas, shredded carrots, or baby spinach work wonderfully. Add heartier vegetables like peppers with the onions, and delicate greens like spinach in the final minute of cooking.

Is turmeric cauliflower rice keto-friendly?

Absolutely. With only 8 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this dish fits perfectly into ketogenic and low-carb eating plans while providing fiber and essential nutrients.

20-Minute Dinner Pack — Free Download 📥

10 recipes, 1 shopping list. Everything you need for a week of easy dinners.

Instant access. No signup hassle.

Turmeric Cauliflower Rice

A vibrant, golden cauliflower rice infused with turmeric, cumin, and fresh citrus. Light, healthy, and ready in minutes.

Prep time
10 min
Cook time
10 min
Overall time
20 min
Recipe by Patrick Eaton


Skill level Easy

Cuisine type Fusion

Portions 4 Serving size

Diet Preferences Vegan-friendly, No Dairy, No Gluten, Reduced-Carb

What You Need

Vegetables

01 1 medium head cauliflower (about 1.3 pounds), cut into florets
02 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 2 cloves garlic, minced

Spices & Seasoning

01 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
02 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
03 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
04 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
05 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
06 Pinch of red chili flakes, optional

Finish & Garnish

01 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
02 Juice of 1/2 lemon

How To Make It

Step 01

Process Cauliflower: Place cauliflower florets in a food processor and pulse until the texture resembles rice grains. Work in batches if needed.

Step 02

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent.

Step 03

Toast Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 04

Bloom Spices: Stir in the ground turmeric, cumin, black pepper, and chili flakes if using. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

Step 05

Cook Cauliflower Rice: Add the riced cauliflower and salt. Stir well to coat evenly with the spices and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy.

Step 06

Finish Dish: Remove from heat. Squeeze over the lemon juice and toss with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Step 07

Adjust & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.

You Just Made Something Great 👏

Want more like this? Get my best easy recipes — free, straight to your inbox.

Join 10,000+ home cooks. No spam.

Needed Tools

  • Food processor or box grater
  • Large skillet
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Spatula

Allergy details

Review all ingredients for allergens and check with your doctor if unsure.
  • Naturally free from gluten, dairy, soy, eggs, and nuts unless garnished with nuts

Nutrition per serving

These nutrition figures are a handy guide—not a substitute for a professional's advice.
  • Calories: 70
  • Fat content: 3.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Protein: 2 g

Cooking Shouldn't Be Hard ❤️

Get a free recipe pack that makes weeknight dinners effortless. Real food, real fast.

Free forever. Unsubscribe anytime.