25+ Irresistible Holiday Paleo Rice Cooker Recipes for a Festive Feast

The holidays are the perfect time to enjoy delicious food, share laughter with family and friends, and create memories that last a lifetime.

For those who follow a paleo lifestyle, maintaining healthy eating habits during the holiday season can be challenging.

However, with the help of a rice cooker, you can create a variety of mouthwatering dishes that adhere to your dietary preferences while also fitting seamlessly into the festivities.

A rice cooker isn’t just for cooking plain rice; it’s a versatile tool that can help you prepare hearty main courses, vibrant sides, and even sweet holiday desserts with ease.

In this blog post, we’ll explore 25+ holiday paleo rice cooker recipes that are perfect for your holiday table.

Whether you’re looking for savory sides, tender main dishes, or indulgent yet healthy desserts, there’s something here for everyone.

25+ Irresistible Holiday Paleo Rice Cooker Recipes for a Festive Feast

The holiday season is a time for celebration, and food plays an essential role in bringing people together.

With these 25+ holiday paleo rice cooker recipes, you can take the stress out of cooking while still impressing your guests and nourishing your body.

From savory, herb-infused sides to sweet and festive desserts, these recipes will make your holiday gatherings even more special.

Embrace the convenience of your rice cooker and make this holiday season simpler and more delicious than ever before.

Each dish is designed to bring out the best in seasonal flavors, ensuring your paleo holiday feast is as tasty as it is healthy.

Paleo Cranberry Almond Wild Rice Pilaf

This festive side dish combines the hearty, nutty flavor of wild rice with sweet, tart cranberries and crunchy almonds, making it an ideal holiday accompaniment for a paleo feast. Perfect for celebrating seasonal flavors, it balances sweetness and savoriness and adds a pop of color to your holiday table.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups wild rice blend, rinsed and drained
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (unsalted)
• ½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Set your rice cooker to the “Cook” setting and add the coconut oil. Once melted, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
2. Add the wild rice, rosemary, thyme, and broth to the rice cooker. Stir to combine and close the lid. Set the rice cooker to “Cook” and allow to cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed (about 40 minutes, depending on your rice cooker model).
3. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the cranberries to the rice cooker to let them warm and plump up.
4. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the toasted almonds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm as a delightful side dish with your holiday main courses.

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated gently before serving, making it a perfect time-saver during holiday meal prep. The balance of sweet cranberries and rich, crunchy almonds makes this a standout dish that pairs well with roast turkey or glazed ham.

Paleo Sweet Potato and Apple Stuffing

This paleo-friendly stuffing replaces traditional bread with sweet potatoes and apples, resulting in a naturally sweet and hearty dish that brings out the warmth of autumn flavors. Perfect for your holiday table, it’s packed with a mix of textures and savory notes that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth (unsalted)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground sage
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/3 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In the rice cooker, add the olive oil or ghee and set it to “Cook.” Sauté the diced onion and celery until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the sweet potatoes, apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sage. Stir to coat the ingredients in the oil and spices.
3. Pour in the broth and stir well. Close the lid and set the rice cooker to “Cook” and let it cook for about 45 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
4. In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the pecans if using, and season the stuffing with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir well and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This sweet potato and apple stuffing is rich with flavor and texture, making it a delightful twist on a traditional holiday dish. The combination of sweet and savory elements will complement roasted meats and a side of cranberry sauce perfectly.

Paleo Lemon Herb Cauliflower Rice Pilaf

A lighter alternative to traditional rice pilaf, this dish uses cauliflower rice as a base and is infused with bright lemon flavors and fresh herbs. It’s perfect as a side dish for those following a paleo diet but is so flavorful that everyone at your holiday table will want seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower, grated or processed into rice-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil or olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• ½ cup pine nuts, toasted
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Set your rice cooker to the “Cook” setting and add the oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and slightly golden.
2. Add the grated cauliflower and lemon zest to the rice cooker. Stir well to combine and allow it to cook for 8-10 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender and slightly golden.
3. Add the lemon juice, parsley, dill, and toasted pine nuts. Stir until evenly distributed and cook for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and serve warm.

The citrusy tang of lemon and the fragrant herbs create a fresh and vibrant dish that pairs beautifully with a holiday meal. The cauliflower rice provides a low-carb option without sacrificing texture or flavor, making it a winning side for any holiday spread.

Paleo Garlic Herb Mushroom Rice

This fragrant mushroom rice, infused with garlic and herbs, is a comforting yet elegant side dish perfect for any holiday table. It’s paleo-friendly, packed with savory umami flavors, and pairs well with roasted meats or a hearty main course.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cauliflower rice
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil or ghee
• 2 cups cremini or white mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth (unsalted)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the coconut oil or ghee in the rice cooker and set it to “Cook.” Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are golden and their liquid has mostly evaporated.
2. Add the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary, stirring to combine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the cauliflower rice and broth to the rice cooker. Stir well and close the lid. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until the cauliflower rice is tender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This dish has a rich, earthy flavor from the mushrooms, balanced with the freshness of herbs. It’s an excellent alternative to traditional rice dishes and makes an elegant side dish that complements both turkey and beef.

Paleo Pomegranate Pistachio Rice Pilaf

For a holiday side dish that dazzles with color and flavor, this pomegranate and pistachio rice pilaf is an exciting and nutritious choice. With a blend of sweet, nutty, and tangy elements, it’s perfect for impressing guests and adding a festive touch to your holiday spread.

Ingredients

• 2 cups riced cauliflower
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/3 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh mint for garnish

Instructions

1. Set the rice cooker to “Cook” and add olive oil. Sauté the red onion until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the riced cauliflower, ground cinnamon, and cumin. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, until the cauliflower is tender and well mixed with the spices.
3. Add the pomegranate seeds and chopped pistachios, stirring to incorporate. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.

This colorful rice pilaf adds a unique combination of flavors and textures to the holiday table. The pop of pomegranate seeds and the crunch of pistachios create a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a standout side dish for any festive gathering.

Paleo Spiced Carrot and Ginger Rice

A warming side dish that brings the cozy flavors of autumn and winter, this spiced carrot and ginger rice is an aromatic addition to your holiday menu. It’s full of vibrant spices, natural sweetness from the carrots, and a hint of ginger for a touch of zing.

Ingredients

• 2 cups riced cauliflower
• 1 ½ cups finely grated carrots
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• ¼ cup unsweetened coconut milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In the rice cooker, melt the coconut oil and set to “Cook.” Add the minced ginger and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in the grated carrots and cook for another 2-3 minutes to soften them.
3. Add the riced cauliflower, cinnamon, nutmeg, and turmeric. Stir to combine, and pour in the coconut milk if using for a creamier texture. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the cauliflower rice is tender and well incorporated.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

The warm spices in this dish provide a comforting, aromatic quality perfect for holiday meals. The carrots add a slight sweetness that pairs beautifully with the ginger, creating a vibrant side dish that is both satisfying and healthy.

Paleo Roasted Beet and Walnut Rice

This bright and earthy side dish features the natural sweetness of roasted beets paired with the crunch of toasted walnuts, all brought together with the subtle flavor of fresh thyme. It’s a stunning addition to any holiday table and provides a delicious, nutrient-rich alternative to traditional rice dishes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cauliflower rice
• 2 medium beets, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh arugula for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the diced beets on a baking sheet, toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. While the beets are roasting, set your rice cooker to “Cook” and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the cauliflower rice and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes tender.
3. Once the beets are done, add them to the rice cooker along with the toasted walnuts, fresh thyme, and balsamic vinegar if using. Stir gently to combine.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm, garnished with fresh arugula.

The combination of sweet roasted beets and crunchy walnuts creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making this dish a standout. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or as a main dish for a vegetarian holiday meal.

Paleo Lemon Thyme Chicken Cauliflower Rice

This dish brings a touch of brightness and a burst of citrus flavor to your holiday table. The lemon and thyme-infused chicken combines with fluffy cauliflower rice for a satisfying and light side that complements both classic and modern main courses.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
• 3 cups cauliflower rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Set the rice cooker to “Cook” and add the olive oil or ghee. Add the cubed chicken and sauté until lightly browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the cauliflower rice and cook for 8-10 minutes.
3. Return the cooked chicken to the rice cooker and add the lemon juice, zest, and dried thyme. Stir to combine and allow the dish to cook for an additional 5 minutes for the flavors to meld.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The zesty lemon and fragrant thyme give this dish a bright, refreshing flavor that pairs well with both savory and sweet holiday main courses. It’s perfect for those who want a flavorful, paleo-friendly side that feels festive without being heavy.

Paleo Coconut Lime Cauliflower Rice with Mango

A unique combination of tropical flavors, this coconut lime cauliflower rice with mango is light and refreshing. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any holiday feast, offering a burst of sweet and tangy flavors that are sure to surprise and delight your guests.

Ingredients

• 2 cups riced cauliflower
• ½ cup coconut milk (unsweetened)
• 1 mango, peeled, pitted, and diced
• 1 lime, juiced and zested
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Set your rice cooker to “Cook” and add the coconut oil. Add the riced cauliflower and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender.
2. Pour in the coconut milk, lime juice, and zest, and stir to combine. Let cook for another 5 minutes to infuse the rice with the flavors.
3. Gently fold in the diced mango and chopped cilantro. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt to taste and transfer to a serving dish. Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro and a lime wedge.

The combination of coconut milk and lime adds a tropical flair to the cauliflower rice, while the mango adds a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory notes. This dish is a light, refreshing, and flavorful addition to any holiday spread, ideal for those looking for something unique yet simple.

Paleo Sage and Cranberry Cauliflower Rice

This side dish brings a delightful mix of flavors and textures, combining the warm, earthy taste of sage with the sweet-tart brightness of cranberries. It’s perfect for adding a seasonal touch to any holiday spread and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cauliflower rice
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or ghee
• ½ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened)
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh rosemary for garnish

Instructions

1. Set the rice cooker to “Cook” and add the coconut oil or ghee. Add the cauliflower rice and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender.
2. Stir in the cranberries, chopped sage, pecans, and ground cinnamon. Let cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh rosemary.

The cranberries add a lovely sweetness that balances the rich, earthy sage and the crunch of pecans, making this dish a festive addition to any holiday meal. It’s paleo, flavorful, and pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, or a hearty vegan main.

Paleo Spiced Apple and Carrot Cauliflower Rice

Infused with autumn spices, this apple and carrot cauliflower rice dish is both comforting and full of flavor. It’s a sweet and savory side that works well with holiday roasts and is perfect for those who appreciate a warm, spiced touch.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cauliflower rice
• 2 apples, peeled and finely diced
• 1 large carrot, grated
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 cup unsweetened apple cider (or water)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chopped walnuts for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Set your rice cooker to “Cook” and add the coconut oil. Add the grated carrot and diced apples, cooking for 4-5 minutes until they start to soften.
2. Stir in the cauliflower rice, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Pour in the apple cider and cook for another 8-10 minutes until the rice is tender and the flavors are combined.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped walnuts if desired.

The apples bring a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the carrots and warm spices. This dish is a great addition for those who want a side that feels both festive and comforting, making it perfect for holiday meals.

Paleo Garlic Lemon Broccoli Rice

This simple yet flavorful side dish highlights the freshness of broccoli and the brightness of lemon. It’s quick to prepare and pairs well with a variety of main dishes, providing a healthy, vibrant addition to your holiday menu.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cauliflower rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In the rice cooker, set to “Cook” and add the olive oil. Add the broccoli florets and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
2. Stir in the cauliflower rice and cook for 8-10 minutes, until the cauliflower rice is cooked through.
3. Add the lemon juice and zest and stir to combine. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh dill if using.

The combination of garlic and lemon brightens the dish, while the broccoli adds a satisfying texture and a nutrient boost. This simple, zesty side dish is perfect for those who love vibrant flavors and want a light, paleo-friendly option for their holiday table.

Paleo Garlic Herb Cauliflower Rice with Mushrooms

This dish brings an earthy, hearty element to the holiday table with the rich flavor of mushrooms and a mix of fresh herbs. It’s a versatile and nutritious side that pairs well with a variety of main dishes, from roast turkey to beef tenderloin.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cauliflower rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or ghee
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Set the rice cooker to “Cook” and add the olive oil or ghee. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until they are browned and softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
3. Add the cauliflower rice and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the rice is tender.
4. Mix in the fresh parsley and thyme. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Transfer to a serving dish and serve warm.

The earthy flavor of the mushrooms, combined with the aromatic herbs and garlic, creates a comforting and rich side dish that enhances any holiday meal. This recipe is not only paleo-friendly but also packed with savory flavors that make it a festive favorite.

Paleo Pomegranate and Almond Cauliflower Rice

A touch of sweetness and a bit of crunch come together in this holiday-inspired dish. The tartness of pomegranate seeds contrasts beautifully with the nutty crunch of almonds, making it a visually appealing and delicious addition to your holiday spread.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cauliflower rice
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In the rice cooker, set to “Cook” and add the coconut oil. Add the cauliflower rice and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender.
2. Stir in the ground cinnamon and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Transfer the cauliflower rice to a serving dish and top with toasted almonds and pomegranate seeds. Sprinkle with chopped fresh mint for a burst of color and flavor.
4. Serve warm and enjoy the combination of sweet, nutty, and fresh flavors.

This dish is both elegant and full of flavor, with the pop of pomegranate seeds adding a festive touch to your holiday table. The almonds bring texture and a hint of sweetness, making it a unique and healthy side dish for any special occasion.

Paleo Spicy Coconut Cauliflower Rice with Pineapple

A tropical twist on a classic side dish, this recipe combines spicy and sweet flavors for a dish that’s both satisfying and exotic. Perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your holiday meal, this rice pairs well with grilled meats and seafood.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cauliflower rice
• 1/2 cup coconut milk (unsweetened)
• 1/2 cup fresh pineapple, diced
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. In the rice cooker, set to “Cook” and add the coconut oil. Add the cauliflower rice and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes tender.
2. Pour in the coconut milk and chili flakes, mixing well. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
3. Add the diced pineapple and cook for 2 more minutes.
4. Season with salt to taste and transfer to a serving dish.
5. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.

The combination of coconut milk, pineapple, and chili flakes creates a symphony of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors. This paleo-friendly side dish is sure to bring a tropical holiday vibe to your table, offering something different yet deliciously satisfying.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!