Save A light and velvety alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, featuring tender cauliflower blended with roasted garlic and a touch of cream for a luscious, flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 lbs), cut into florets, 4 cloves garlic, peeled
- Dairy: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1/4 cup heavy cream (or half and half for lighter version), 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Seasonings: 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Add cauliflower florets and garlic cloves cook until cauliflower is tender, about 12 15 minutes Drain well
- Step 2:
- Transfer cauliflower and garlic to a food processor or blender Add butter, cream, Parmesan (if using), salt, and pepper
- Step 3:
- Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed Taste and adjust seasoning
- Step 4:
- Transfer to a serving bowl Garnish with fresh chives or parsley, if desired Serve hot
Save Required Tools
Large pot, Colander, Food processor or blender, Measuring cups and spoons, Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter, cream, Parmesan) Check cheese and cream labels for potential allergens if using substitutions
Nutritional Information
Calories 135 Total Fat 9 g Carbohydrates 10 g Protein 5 g
Save Recipe Help & Answers
- → How do I achieve a smooth texture in mashed cauliflower?
Cook cauliflower until very tender, then blend thoroughly with cream and butter to create a creamy consistency. Using a food processor helps achieve the best smoothness.
- → Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter and cream with olive oil and unsweetened plant-based milk for a dairy-free version without compromising flavor.
- → What enhances the flavor of mashed cauliflower?
Roasted garlic adds a deep, mellow taste, while Parmesan cheese enriches the dish with savory notes. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley offer a fresh finish.
- → Is this suitable for low-carb diets?
Absolutely. Cauliflower is low in carbohydrates, making this a great side to replace traditional mashed potatoes in low-carb meals.
- → How long does preparation take?
Roughly 30 minutes total: about 10 minutes prep and 20 minutes cooking time, making it a quick option for weeknight sides.