Looking for a healthy, low-carb dinner that’s packed with flavor? Shrimp Cauliflower Rice is the answer.
This dish swaps traditional rice for cauliflower rice, making it a lighter, nutrient-packed option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
The succulent shrimp adds protein and richness, while the cauliflower rice soaks up all the savory seasonings, creating a dish that’s both fresh and satisfying.
Whether you’re following a keto or gluten-free diet, or simply want a delicious weeknight meal, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Why You’ll Love Shrimp Cauliflower Rice
Shrimp Cauliflower Rice is more than just a low-carb alternative to fried rice. It’s a flavorful, quick, and healthy meal that doesn’t require any complicated ingredients or a lot of prep work.
The shrimp brings a sweet, briny flavor that pairs perfectly with the mildness of cauliflower rice.
Toss in some fresh garlic, herbs, and seasonings, and you’ve got a dish bursting with flavor in every bite. It’s ideal for busy evenings when you need something nutritious and satisfying in under 30 minutes.
Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or spice levels, making it a versatile meal for any palate.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 medium Cauliflower (or 4 cups cauliflower rice)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon Lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)
- 1/4 cup Green onions (sliced, optional for garnish)
Preparation
- Prepare the Shrimp: Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if they aren’t already. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Prepare the Cauliflower Rice: If you’re using fresh cauliflower, remove the leaves and stem, and cut it into florets. Pulse the florets in a food processor until they resemble rice-sized grains. Alternatively, you can use store-bought cauliflower rice for convenience.
- Mise en Place: Mince the garlic, chop the cilantro, slice the green onions, and measure out the soy sauce, lime juice, and spices. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Cauliflower Rice: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the cauliflower rice to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cauliflower rice becomes tender. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika, and mix well.
- Combine the Shrimp and Rice: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the cauliflower rice. Add soy sauce and lime juice, stirring to combine all the ingredients evenly. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions, and serve hot. Enjoy your vibrant and delicious shrimp cauliflower rice!
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Cauliflower Rice
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
- Rice Consistency: If using fresh cauliflower, be careful not to process it too much. You want rice-sized pieces, not a puree.
- Add Veggies for More Color: Feel free to toss in extra veggies like bell peppers, peas, or carrots to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
- Seasoning Variations: Customize the seasonings to your taste. You can add chili flakes for heat or a splash of sesame oil for a richer flavor.
- Make It a One-Pan Meal: If you have a large skillet or wok, you can cook both the shrimp and cauliflower rice together, but make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This ensures even cooking and avoids steaming the ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Serves 4)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Vitamin A: 10% DV
- Vitamin C: 80% DV
- Calcium: 4% DV
- Iron: 15% DV
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions.
Conclusion
Shrimp Cauliflower Rice is the ultimate healthy, low-carb meal that delivers on flavor without compromising on nutrition.
It’s a one-pan dish that’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
With a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this dish is sure to keep you full and satisfied.
Whether you’re following a keto, gluten-free, or low-carb diet, this recipe is versatile enough to meet your needs while providing a fresh, delicious dinner.
Give it a try, and enjoy a flavorful, guilt-free meal the whole family will love!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they cook evenly.
How do I make cauliflower rice from scratch?
Simply chop a head of cauliflower into florets, and pulse them in a food processor until the pieces are small and resemble rice. Alternatively, you can grate the cauliflower using a box grater.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, snap peas, or even mushrooms to the cauliflower rice for added color and flavor. Just sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cauliflower rice.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly! Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative to traditional rice, and shrimp are a high-protein, low-carb option, making this dish perfect for those on a keto diet.
Can I meal prep this dish?
Yes, Shrimp Cauliflower Rice makes a great meal prep option. Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and easy meal.
Shrimp Cauliflower Rice
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet or Wok
- 1 Food Processor (for ricing cauliflower, optional)
- 1 Knife and cutting board
- 1 Spoon or Spatula (for stirring)
- 1 Measuring Spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb Shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 medium Cauliflower or 4 cups pre-riced cauliflower
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 teaspoon Lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro optional, chopped
- 1/4 cup Green onions optional, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp, then pat them dry with paper towels.
- Prepare the Cauliflower Rice: If using fresh cauliflower, cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until rice-sized. Alternatively, use pre-riced cauliflower.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, and add the olive oil. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Cauliflower Rice: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, and sauté the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the cauliflower rice and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender. Season with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Return the shrimp to the skillet with the cauliflower rice. Add soy sauce and lime juice, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add bell peppers, peas, or any other vegetables to customize the dish.
- Spice Adjustments: For a spicier version, add chili flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce.
- Cauliflower Rice: You can also buy pre-riced cauliflower for convenience. Fresh cauliflower rice has a slightly firmer texture than the frozen or store-bought kind.
- Substitutions: If you prefer, you can substitute shrimp with chicken breast or tofu for a different protein option.
