Cauliflower fried rice with shrimp is a delicious, low-carb twist on a classic favorite that’s packed with flavor and nutrients! Loaded with lean protein from shrimp and vitamins from cauliflower, this dish is a fantastic option for anyone aiming to eat healthier without compromising on taste.
This quick and easy recipe is highly customizable with your favorite veggies and seasonings, and it comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet, looking to cut calories, or just want to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal, this dish has got you covered.
If you’re looking for a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying, cauliflower fried rice with shrimp is the way to go. This dish is:
- Low in carbs but high in flavor. You won’t even miss the traditional rice!
- Quick and easy. Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with nutrients. Shrimp provides lean protein while cauliflower brings vitamins and fiber.
- Customizable. Add your favorite veggies, spices, and sauces to make it your own.
- Perfect for meal prep. Make it ahead and enjoy it throughout the week.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cauliflower head or 4 cups cauliflower rice
- 12 oz. shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots (or fresh if preferred)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Creole Kick seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the cauliflower rice:
If using fresh cauliflower, cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it reaches a rice-like consistency. Alternatively, use pre-made cauliflower rice for convenience.
2. Season and cook the shrimp:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with Creole Kick, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables:
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the diced onion, garlic, and peas and carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
4. Cook the cauliflower rice:
Add the cauliflower rice to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and slightly golden. Make sure to cook thoroughly to prevent a soggy texture.
5. Scramble the eggs:
Push the cauliflower rice to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them into the cauliflower rice.
6. Add the shrimp and seasonings:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil (if using), and additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes until well combined and heated through.
7. Serve and garnish:
Garnish with green onions if desired and serve hot. Enjoy your flavorful, healthy cauliflower fried rice with shrimp!
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Don’t overcook the cauliflower rice. Overcooking can make it mushy, so cook just until tender.
- Customize with more veggies. Add bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
- Spice it up. A dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha can add an extra kick.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat dry before cooking.
- Meal prep-friendly. Store in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go meals.
Variations to Try
- Swap shrimp for chicken or tofu.
- Add pineapple chunks for a sweet twist.
- Use coconut aminos for a soy-free version.
- Throw in some cashews for a crunchy texture.
- Add extra heat with chili garlic sauce.
- Use riced broccoli instead of cauliflower.
- Incorporate leftover roasted vegetables.
- Try a curry seasoning blend for a unique flavor.
- Add kimchi for a tangy, fermented kick.
- Use ground turkey for a leaner protein.
- Toss in some bean sprouts for added crunch.
- Add a splash of fish sauce for umami richness.
- Stir in some chopped kale or spinach.
- Use lemon zest for a citrusy touch.
- Add sesame seeds for an added nutty flavor.
What to Serve with Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp
- Steamed bok choy
- Miso soup
- Asian cucumber salad
- Spring rolls
- Garlic roasted asparagus
- Stir-fried green beans
- Kimchi
- Teriyaki chicken skewers
- Spicy edamame
- Pickled radish
- Thai papaya salad
- Sweet and sour chicken
- Sesame ginger coleslaw
- Egg drop soup
- Szechuan beef
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, portion into containers and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for the best texture.
How Much to Make for Family Gatherings?
For a small family gathering of 6-8 people, double the recipe. For larger gatherings, consider tripling the recipe to ensure everyone gets a generous serving.
How Far in Advance Can I Make It?
You can prepare cauliflower fried rice with shrimp up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat just before serving to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Enjoy this healthy, satisfying meal that’s bursting with bold flavors and textures!
Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp
Ingredients
Instructions
- If using fresh cauliflower, cut it into florets and pulse in a food processor until it reaches a rice-like consistency. Alternatively, use pre-made cauliflower rice for convenience.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with Creole Kick, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Toss in the diced onion, garlic, and peas and carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add the cauliflower rice to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and slightly golden. Make sure to cook thoroughly to prevent a soggy texture.
- Push the cauliflower rice to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty space. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them into the cauliflower rice.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil (if using), and additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes until well combined and heated through.
- Garnish with green onions if desired and serve hot. Enjoy your flavorful, healthy cauliflower fried rice with shrimp!
