Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
When I first set out to create the perfect side dish, I knew I wanted something that combined comfort with healthiness. Enter Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it marries the rich, buttery texture of traditional mashed potatoes with a low-carb twist. From the moment the cauliflower florets hit the steamer, the anticipation builds as the room fills with the subtle aroma of garlic, which will soon mingle with the creamy goodness of the dish.
The Magic of Steaming and Sautéing
Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower is incredibly simple yet satisfying. As the cauliflower steams, I sauté the garlic in olive oil until it’s golden and fragrant. This step not only infuses the dish with a delightful garlic flavor but also adds a touch of elegance to a seemingly humble vegetable. Once the cauliflower is tender and the garlic is perfectly sautéed, the magic happens in the food processor. Blending the ingredients until smooth creates a velvety mash that’s hard to resist.
A Healthier Twist on a Classic
What makes Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re following a keto diet or just looking to cut down on carbs, this dish is a great alternative to the traditional mashed potatoes. The addition of Parmesan cheese and a dollop of light cream cheese gives it that creamy texture and savory depth that can win over even the most dedicated potato lovers. And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to tweak the recipe, like using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese or adding fresh herbs for a personalized touch.
Serving Up Comfort and Health
Serving Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower feels like presenting a bowl of comfort, but with a healthier spin. It’s perfect alongside roasted meats or as a satisfying side at any dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight meal, this dish brings a touch of luxury to everyday dining. So, next time you’re craving something creamy and delicious, give this recipe a try and watch it become a favorite in your home too!
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
- Steam Until Tender: Ensure the cauliflower is steamed until fully tender to achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Undercooked cauliflower may result in a grainy mash.
- Garlic Intensity: Adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic or sauté it for a shorter time.
- Blending Tips: For the creamiest result, blend the cauliflower in batches if your food processor is small. Overcrowding can lead to uneven consistency.
- Creamy Consistency: If the mashed cauliflower is too thick after blending, you can add a splash of milk or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with additional herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika to customize the flavor profile. A touch of nutmeg can also add a warm depth to the dish.
- Make-Ahead Tips: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of liquid if needed to restore creaminess.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or as a side to a hearty salad. It also works well as a base for a grain bowl or alongside a protein for a complete meal.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
4
servings15
minutes10
minutes98
kcal25
minutesDive into the world of low-carb comfort food with this creamy garlic mashed cauliflower recipe! Perfect for those on the South Beach Diet or anyone looking to cut down on carbs, this dish is a fantastic alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Even veggie skeptics will be won over by its rich, garlicky flavor. A must-try for your next dinner!
Ingredients
- Cauliflower Base
1 large head cauliflower, broken into florets
- Flavor Enhancers
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
- Creamy Additions
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon light cream cheese
- Seasonings
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Alternative Ingredients:
Cauliflower: Broccoli florets for a different flavor profile.
Olive Oil: Avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
Parmesan Cheese: Nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Cream Cheese: Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Kosher Salt: Sea salt or Himalayan pink salt.
Black Pepper: White pepper for a milder taste.
- Alternative Ingredients:
Cauliflower: Broccoli florets for a different flavor profile.
Olive Oil: Avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
Parmesan Cheese: Nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Cream Cheese: Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Kosher Salt: Sea salt or Himalayan pink salt.
Black Pepper: White pepper for a milder taste.
Directions
- Steam Cauliflower – Place a steamer insert into a saucepan and fill with water just below the steamer’s bottom. Bring water to a boil and add the cauliflower florets. Cover and steam until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Cook Garlic – While the cauliflower steams, heat the olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and softened, approximately 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Blend Ingredients – Transfer half of the steamed cauliflower to a food processor and blend until smooth. Gradually add the remaining cauliflower florets while blending until the mixture is creamy.
- Incorporate Flavors – Add the sautéed garlic, Parmesan cheese, light cream cheese, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to the food processor. Blend until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Serve – Transfer the creamy garlic mashed cauliflower to a serving bowl. Optionally garnish with fresh chives or additional black pepper before serving.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- food processor
- nonstick pan
- steamer insert
- saucepan
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 98kcal
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 7mg
- Sodium: 372mg
- Potassium: 452mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 2IU
- Vitamin C: 74mg
- Calcium: 7mg
- Iron: 4mg
FAQs- Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Can I use frozen cauliflower for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower. Just ensure it is fully thawed and drained before steaming.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and replace the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese or cashew cream.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you prefer not to use Parmesan cheese, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a different hard cheese of your choice.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add a bit of milk or broth to restore its creamy texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the mashed cauliflower for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of liquid if needed.
