Lemon Garlic Mashed Cauliflower is a tasty twist on classic mashed potatoes! It’s creamy, zesty, and full of flavor from fresh lemon and garlic. Plus, it’s low-carb!
Trust me, it’s hard to believe this isn’t potatoes! I love making this when I want something light yet satisfying. Pair it with your favorite protein for a yummy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: This is the star! Make sure to use fresh, firm heads of cauliflower. If you’re looking for a shortcut, frozen cauliflower works too; just be sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness. If you want a dairy-free version, try using coconut oil or vegan butter instead. They’ll add a different flavor but work beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use garlic powder, but it won’t have the same punch. About 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder equals one clove of fresh garlic.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds creaminess and a savory note. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can provide a similar cheesy flavor, or you can skip it for a lighter dish.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, just use a little less than you would with fresh.
How Can I Get Smooth and Creamy Mashed Cauliflower?
Achieving the perfect texture can be tricky. Here are my tips for smooth mashed cauliflower:
- Make sure to drain the cauliflower well after cooking. Excess moisture can make it runny.
- Using a food processor or blender is key for smoothness. A potato masher will leave it chunky.
- Add milk or cream slowly until you reach your desired consistency. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
- Blend for just enough time to combine. Over-blending can make it gummy.
With these steps, you’ll have perfectly creamy mashed cauliflower every time!
How to Make Lemon Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets (about 4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup milk or cream (adjust for desired consistency)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10-12 minutes cooking the cauliflower, and the rest for preparing and blending the ingredients. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Cauliflower:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the cauliflower florets and let them cook until they are very tender, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once they’re soft, drain them well and allow them to sit in the strainer for a couple of minutes to remove any excess moisture.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the cauliflower is cooking, melt the butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant but not browned. This will give your dish a delicious flavor! Once ready, remove it from heat.
3. Blend the Ingredients:
Now, you’re ready to combine everything! Transfer the drained cauliflower into a food processor or blender. Add the sautéed garlic along with the butter, grated Parmesan cheese (if using), lemon zest, lemon juice, and half of the milk or cream. Blend or process everything until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick for your liking, add more milk or cream a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Season and Mix:
Once you have a nice creamy texture, it’s time to season! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and pulse briefly to combine everything well.
5. Serve:
To plate, spoon the mashed cauliflower into a serving bowl. For a touch of indulgence, drizzle a little melted butter on top and garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if you like.
6. Enjoy:
Serve warm as a delightful side dish in place of traditional mashed potatoes. Enjoy your bright and creamy Lemon Garlic Mashed Cauliflower!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just ensure you thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before blending to avoid a watery consistency.
How Can I Adjust the Flavor?
If you want a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to add more lemon juice or zest. For a garlic-forward dish, increase the number of garlic cloves to suit your taste!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative, use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese, and choose a non-dairy milk option, like almond or coconut milk.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm them gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.