Turmeric Cauliflower Rice (Printable)

Vibrant riced cauliflower with golden turmeric and aromatic spices for a healthy, light side dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

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

→ Spices & Seasoning

04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
05 - 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
08 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
09 - Pinch of red chili flakes, optional

→ Finish & Garnish

10 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
11 - Juice of 1/2 lemon

# Directions:

01 - Place cauliflower florets in a food processor and pulse until the texture resembles rice grains. Work in batches if needed.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent.
03 - Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Stir in the ground turmeric, cumin, black pepper, and chili flakes if using. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
05 - 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.
06 - Remove from heat. Squeeze over the lemon juice and toss with fresh cilantro or parsley.
07 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's ready faster than you can set the table, making weeknight dinners feel less rushed.
  • That turmeric does something magical—it tastes sophisticated but comes together in the simplest way possible.
02 -
  • If you cook the cauliflower too long it turns mushy and sad, so set a timer and don't wander off checking your phone.
  • Taste it before you serve it—salt and lemon juice change everything, and what tastes right in your kitchen might need adjustment based on your specific spices and produce.
03 -
  • Toast your cumin and turmeric in the oil for a full minute before adding the cauliflower—this single step is what makes people ask for your recipe.
  • Buy whole turmeric root and grate it fresh if you're feeling ambitious, but honestly, good ground turmeric from a reputable source does the job beautifully.
Go Back