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Creamy Cauliflower Mash

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A quick, easy, and healthy low-carb side dish that delivers the comfort of mashed potatoes with the freshness of cauliflower. Silky smooth with garlic, cream cheese, and Parmesan for a flavorful twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets (about 4 cups)
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup milk or cream, warmed (whole milk or heavy cream; dairy-free alternatives can be used)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Chop the cauliflower head into evenly sized florets (about 4 cups).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook until fork-tender, about 10-12 minutes, or steam for 12-15 minutes to preserve nutrients.
  3. Drain the cauliflower well in a colander and let it sit for a minute or two to evaporate excess moisture.
  4. While cauliflower cooks, melt butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to brown it.
  5. Transfer cauliflower to a food processor or blender. Add sautéed garlic with butter, cream cheese, and half the milk or cream. Pulse until smooth, adding more milk gradually to reach desired creaminess.
  6. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. If mash is too thick, add a splash more milk. Optionally fold in a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt for lighter texture.
  7. Spoon the mash into a serving bowl, sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

For best texture, let cauliflower dry well after draining to avoid watery mash. Warm dairy ingredients before adding to keep mash creamy and smooth. Avoid over-blending to prevent gummy texture. For dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil, cream cheese with coconut yogurt or mashed avocado, and use dairy-free milk. Parmesan can be replaced with nutritional yeast for vegan option.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower mash, creamy cauliflower, low-carb side dish, healthy mashed potatoes alternative, garlic cauliflower mash, keto side dish, gluten-free side

Find it online: https://cooksybite.com/creamy-cauliflower-mash-recipe-easy-healthy-low-carb-side-dish/