Save to Pinterest A light and creamy alternative to mashed potatoes, this cauliflower mash is infused with roasted garlic and fresh lemon-herb flavors for a bright, comforting side dish.
This dish became a staple at family dinners when we wanted something comforting but lighter than traditional mashed potatoes. The combination of garlic and fresh herbs really elevates each bite.
Ingredients
- Cauliflower: 1 large head (about 1.2 kg), cut into florets
- Garlic: 4 cloves, peeled
- Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons (or olive oil for vegan option)
- Milk or unsweetened plant milk: 60 ml (1/4 cup)
- Lemon: Zest of 1 lemon, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Chives: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Parsley: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, plus more to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- Boil Cauliflower and Garlic:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and garlic cloves. Cook for 12–15 minutes, until the cauliflower is very tender.
- Drain and Steam:
- Drain well and let the cauliflower sit in the colander for 2–3 minutes to steam off excess moisture.
- Mash Ingredients:
- Transfer cauliflower and garlic to a food processor or large bowl. Add butter, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Blend Until Smooth:
- Blend or mash until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down sides as needed.
- Add Herbs:
- Stir in chives and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Save to Pinterest We always laugh recalling our first batch, when the kids guessed it was mashed potatoes and devoured every spoonful before realizing the difference!
Serving Suggestions
This mash pairs beautifully with roasted meats or serves as a velvety base for hearty stews.
Allergy Information
Contains dairy ingredients; substitute plant-based butter and milk for a dairy-free version. Always check labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutrition
Each serving has approximately 110 calories, 6 g fat, 12 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this fresh, flavorful side at your next gathering; leftovers reheat well for an easy lunch the next day.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve a smooth texture in the mash?
Boil the cauliflower until very tender, then drain thoroughly before blending with butter and milk for a creamy consistency.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, substitute butter with olive oil and use unsweetened plant milk instead of dairy milk to keep it vegan.
- → What herbs complement the flavors best?
Fresh chives and parsley add a bright, herbal note that balances the richness and lemon zest.
- → How can I enhance the garlic flavor?
Try roasting the garlic before adding for a sweeter, deeper flavor that enriches the mash.
- → Is this suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, using cauliflower instead of potatoes keeps the dish low in carbohydrates without sacrificing creaminess.