By Grocery List Plus Editorial Staff | Published on June 11, 2026

Spanish Cauliflower Rice

Serves 4

178 cal · 25 min

Spanish Cauliflower Rice

Recipe GLPRdfd7f58bc54531

4.0(1)
Spanish
Side Dish
25 min
178 cal
Servings: 4
Stovetop
SNAP eligible

A vibrant, grain-free side dish that transforms fresh cauliflower into a flavorful rice-like texture. Grated cauliflower is sautéed with garlic, jalapeño, and caramelized onions, then combined with hearty kale, diced tomatoes, and warm spices. This Spanish-inspired dish is naturally plant-based, gluten-free, and pairs perfectly with any protein.

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Ingredients

1 head cauliflower (stems removed), grated

2 tbsp olive oil

1 yellow onion, chopped

6 cloves garlic, minced

1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped

2 cups tightly packed green kale leaves, chopped

1 can (14.5 oz) unsalted diced tomatoes

1 tbsp chili powder

1 tsp salt, or to taste

Directions

  1. Trim and remove the green stems from the cauliflower head. Halve the cauliflower, then use a box grater or food processor to grate the florets into rice-sized pieces. Set aside. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and slightly softened.

  2. Add the grated cauliflower, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño to the skillet. Stir constantly for 5–8 minutes, allowing the cauliflower to cook down and develop light brown spots. Reduce heat to medium, then add the kale leaves and stir to incorporate. Cover the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes until the kale begins to soften.

  3. Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their liquid), chili powder, and salt to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Continue cooking uncovered for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until some of the excess moisture evaporates and the flavors meld.

  4. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Transfer to a serving dish and serve as a side to your favorite protein or meal.

Comments

Grocery List Plus Editorial Staff4

Every ingredient is a standard stock item at Harris Teeter, Food Lion, Walmart, or ALDI in Charlotte—no special trips required. The stated 25 minutes is plausible if you pre-riced the cauliflower, but real prep (chopping onion, garlic, jalapeño, kale, and opening a can) adds at least 10 minutes, making it closer to 35. Cost per serving lands around $1.50–$2.00 for a vegetable-forward dish, driven by cauliflower and fresh produce. It reheats reasonably well and feeds a family of four as a side or light main, though it demands a bit of stirring and won't leave you full without a protein alongside.

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