Description
Silky smooth “Creamy Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes” blend comfort and nutrition for a guilt-free side dish that delights taste buds. Guests will crave these lighter, healthier potatoes that bring pure culinary satisfaction to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
Dairy:
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese or Greek yogurt
Seasonings and Extras:
- 1 head garlic
- 2 tablespoons (2 tbsp) olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon (1/2 tsp) sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon (1/4 tsp) ground black pepper
- Unsweetened almond milk (optional, as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatic garlic by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully slice the top off the garlic head, exposing the delicate cloves. Generously coat with olive oil and envelop the bulb in aluminum foil, creating a protective packet.
- Roast the garlic for 35-40 minutes until the cloves transform into a soft, golden-brown delicacy. Allow the roasted garlic to cool slightly, then gently squeeze out the caramelized cloves from their papery skin.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Carefully add cauliflower florets and simmer for 10-12 minutes until they yield easily to a fork’s gentle pressure. Thoroughly drain the cooked cauliflower.
- Transfer the cooked cauliflower to a clean kitchen towel and perform a moisture-removing technique by firmly squeezing out excess liquid, ensuring a rich and creamy final texture.
- Combine the drained cauliflower, roasted garlic cloves, cottage cheese, remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse and blend until the mixture reaches a velvety smooth consistency, periodically scraping down the sides to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Assess the texture and add a splash of almond milk if the mixture appears too dense, creating the perfect creamy consistency.
- Elevate the dish with optional garnishes such as a golden drizzle of melted butter, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a generous dusting of grated parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while the mashed cauliflower remains warm and inviting.
Notes
- Roast garlic slowly and carefully to develop a rich, sweet flavor without burning, which can turn bitter and unpleasant.
- Squeeze cauliflower thoroughly to remove excess water, ensuring a creamy and thick texture similar to traditional mashed potatoes.
- Use low-fat cottage cheese or Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to heavy cream, maintaining the luxurious mouthfeel while reducing calories.
- Experiment with additional herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to enhance the overall flavor profile and add a fresh, aromatic dimension to the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 5mg