Looking for a quick and flavorful dinner recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights? This Instant Pot Pork Carnitas with Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice is your answer. Packed with high protein and bursting with zesty flavors, it’s an ideal option for those seeking high protein healthy dinner ideas. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a satisfying meal without piling on the calories.

If you’re on the hunt for high protein low calorie recipes, this dish shines. The pork carnitas are succulent and seasoned to perfection, while the cilantro lime cauliflower rice adds a refreshing twist. It’s a delicious combination that will make your taste buds dance and keep you feeling full.
High Protein Dinner Recipe
This Instant Pot Pork Carnitas served with cilantro lime cauliflower rice is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking high protein healthy dinner ideas.
It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With savory pork and refreshing rice, it combines flavors that will surely satisfy your cravings without excessive calories.
Flavorful Pork Carnitas
The star of this dish, the pork carnitas, is created with tender chunks of pork shoulder, seasoned with a blend of spices that elevate the dish to a new level.
Infused with citrus juices, including lime and orange, the carnitas are juicy and bursting with flavor. This method captures the essence of traditional Mexican cuisine in a modern, convenient way.
Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice
Complementing the rich flavors of the carnitas, the cilantro lime cauliflower rice is a delightful addition.
It’s a low-carb alternative that provides a fresh, zesty contrast to the savory pork, making this meal both satisfying and nutritious.
Preparation and Cooking Tips
This high protein dinner recipe is simple to prepare. Start by seasoning the pork and placing it in the Instant Pot with garlic and onions.
Once cooked, shredding the meat is a breeze, and it soaks up all the delicious juices. The cauliflower rice is quickly sautéed, ensuring its texture remains fluffy and light.
Serve and Garnish
When it’s time to serve, plate the carnitas generously over the fluffy cauliflower rice.
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a few lime wedges not only enhance the presentation but also add an extra burst of flavor that ties the entire dish together.
Nutrition and Benefits
This dish provides a balanced meal with 36g of protein per serving, making it an excellent choice for those focusing on their protein intake.
With only 290 calories, it fits perfectly into those searching for high protein low calorie recipes that taste amazing and keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Delicious Instant Pot Carnitas with Healthy Cauliflower Rice

These pork carnitas are tender, juicy, and infused with citrusy flavors, making them the star of your dinner plate. Paired with cilantro lime cauliflower rice, this dish is not just healthy but incredibly filling, making it a perfect example of high protein dinner recipes.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 orange, juiced
- 1 lime, juiced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 head cauliflower, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Season the pork shoulder pieces with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Place in the Instant Pot.
- Add Citrus and Aromatics: Pour in the orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, and chopped onion over the pork. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then perform a quick release.
- Shred the Pork: Remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the pot and mix with the juices.
- Prepare the Cauliflower Rice: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add grated cauliflower, salt, and pepper, sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender. Add chopped cilantro and lime juice, mixing well.
- Serve: Plate the carnitas over the cilantro lime cauliflower rice and enjoy your high protein dinner recipe!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 290kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 10g

Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.