goodbye soggy cauliflower rice — there is no going back after you try this recipe!

Okay, so we all know “normal” cauliflower rice is a great addition to a low carb lifestyle. It provides a filling and fiber-filled foundation to some really amazing main courses that would otherwise be served with some sort of carb-rich and potentially non-nutritive side dish.

Buuuut, let’s be honest, most cauliflower “rice” really is not all that exciting. And, certainly, not something that could stand alone for most people. Through the magic of roasting (which brings out the magic in many vegetables), and some other tasty and nutrient-dense additions, this newest version of this trendy side dish promotes cauliflower rice to center stage in the meal.

White Rice vs. Cauliflower Rice

Aside from being lower in calories and carbs, while three times higher in fiber, there are many other reasons cauliflower rice might be worth trying, if you haven’t already. According to Tim Rees of Better Humans, cauliflower rice is:

• Higher in B Vitamins: B vitamins are an integral part in keeping the body’s cells, brain, and metabolism functioning properly. Cauliflower rice has almost three times more B1 (thiamine), two times more in B3 (niacin), and over four times more B6 than white rice. Cauliflower also contains B2 (riboflavin) and lots of B9 (folate), where as white rice has none or almost none.
• Higher in Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an important antioxidant best known for boosting the immune system, but it also helps maintain bones, skin, and blood vessels. Cauliflower rice can give you 50% or more than your daily requirements for Vitamin C, depending on your sex and weight, in just one serving!
• Higher in sulphoraphane: All cruciferous vegetable contain sulphoraphane, which is thought to help prevent cancer in its protection against DNA damage and its activation of antioxidants. Sulphoraphane is not found in white rice.
• Higher in choline: Choline is an essential nutrient that must come from our diets as our bodies don’t make enough of it. Being deficient can lead to liver damage and, possibly even, cancer causing. During pregnancy, it is also a vital nutrient as it is essential for fetal brain development.

The “extra boosts” in this cauliflower rice recipe!

As if you needed more convincing of why cauliflower rice could be a clear winner, this recipe also packs a few other nutrient-dense punches:

• Hemp Seeds¹: Just for starters, hemp seeds are a good source of iron, vitamin E, manganese, B-vitamins, zinc, omega-3, and omega-6. Hemp seeds also contain all nine essential amino acids, meaning they are a great source of plant-based protein and their protein content is easily absorbed by our bodies. Studies show that hemp seeds could also help with coronary heart disease, cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, act as an anti-inflammatory, and support brain health! (1)
• Nutritional Yeast¹: Surprisingly cheesy-tasting and rich in thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), Pyridoxine (B6), potassium, and zinc. Like hemps seeds, nutritional yeast also contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a great source of protein. Nutritional yeast can also play a role in maintaining healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels, strengthening your immune system, fighting fatigue, and experiencing less post-workout fatigue and inflammation. It’s also an excellent source of fiber! (2)
• Parsley: It may seem as though parsley is just a ho-hum herb used for garnishing, but it is actually one of the most powerful disease-fighting plants! Aside from being a great source of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, it is also rich in free radical-fighting antioxidants. (3)

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Enjoy!

We hope this cauliflower rice recipe is truly like none other you’ve tried before and wins the debate at your table over white rice vs. cauliflower rice! Let us know how it turns out!

Equipment Needed

Large Sheet Pan

Large Mixing Bowl

Spatula