Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower is a quick and easy dish to prepare. It requires only a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time. It fits into my busy schedule while still being delicious.
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Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower Recipe
Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. This dish combines the creamy texture of cauliflower with the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese. It is low in carbs, gluten-free, keto-friendly, and packed with nutrients.
Its creamy texture and rich, cheesy flavor make it a popular choice for those seeking lighter, guilt-free comfort food. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. It is a crowd-pleaser for both veggie lovers and picky eaters.
This is how to make the Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower:
Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower about 4 cups florets
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil for a lighter version
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup milk or heavy cream for extra richness
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp salt or to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp onion powder optional
- Fresh parsley or chopped green onion for garnish optional
Instructions
- Cut the cauliflower into florets and steam for 10-12 minutes until very tender. (You can also boil it for about 10 minutes.)
- If boiling, drain thoroughly to remove excess water. Let it sit for a minute to dry slightly—this helps prevent a watery mash.
- In a food processor or with a potato masher, combine the cauliflower, butter, Parmesan, milk, garlic, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- If too thick, add a splash of milk. If too thin, let it sit for a minute to thicken.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm as a delicious, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes!
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of sour cream or cream cheese.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, mash with a fork instead of blending.
- Try roasting the garlic beforehand for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Perfect alongside grilled chicken, steak, or roasted veggies!
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Pairing suggestions
Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower pairs well with various main courses and drinks. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside it:
- Food Pairings
- Baked Chicken Thighs offer a hearty contrast to creamy cauliflower.
- Pan Roasted Chicken Breasts complement the savory flavors of roasted chicken.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers filled with grains pair well with cauliflower mash.
- Grilled Salmon pairs with the mashed cauliflower for a balanced meal.
- Steak and Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower create a satisfying flavor combination.
- Creamy mash enhances the savory flavor of grilled pork chops.
- Mushroom Risotto is a great choice.
- Roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal.
- A fresh green salad adds a crisp contrast to the dish.
- Drink Pairings
- Mojito brightens the meal with minty freshness.
- Wine balances the dish’s richness with crisp acidity.
- Sparkling water with lemon cleanses the palate with refreshing bubbles.
- Unsweetened iced tea contrasts the creamy texture of the dish.
- Mild herbal tea pairs well with savory dishes.
- Gin and Tonic complement the dish’s savory notes.
Variations
Here are some variations for parmesan mashed cauliflower:
- Dairy-Free Version:
- Replace butter with olive oil or coconut oil
- Substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk
- Skip Parmesan, add 2 tbsp nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
- Add 1 tsp lemon juice to brighten flavors.
- Vegan Version:
- Use olive oil instead of butter
- Replace milk with unsweetened plant-based milk
- Skip Parmesan, add 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- Add 1 tsp white miso paste for umami
- Add ½ tsp Dijon mustard for depth
- Extra Luxurious Version:
- Use 3 tbsp butter instead of 2
- Replace milk with heavy cream
- Increase Parmesan to ½ cup
- Add 2 oz cream cheese
- Add ¼ tsp nutmeg
- Top with crispy fried shallots
- Mediterranean Style:
- Use olive oil instead of butter
- Add 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes
- Include 1 tsp dried oregano
- Add 2 tbsp chopped kalamata olives
- Mix in 1 tbsp capers
- Top with crumbled feta instead of Parmesan
- Garlic Herb Version:
- Double the garlic (4 cloves)
- Add 1 tbsp each fresh chopped rosemary and thyme
- Include ¼ cup fresh chopped chives
- Add ½ tsp garlic powder for extra depth
- Mix in 2 tbsp softened roasted garlic