Classic Healthy Garlic Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
This recipe offers a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, using tender cauliflower infused with garlic. It's a creamy, satisfying side dish perfect for any meal, easily adaptable to your preferred texture.
Equipment
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Steaming Basket (optional)
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Hand Blender OR Food Processor OR Potato Masher
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head Fresh Cauliflower (about 2-2.5 lbs), cut into small flower-like pieces
- 4-6 cloves Garlic finely chopped
- 2-4 tablespoons Butter or Dairy-Free Butter
- 1/4 cup Milk (dairy, almond, or cashew milk)
- 2 tablespoons Cream Cheese (optional, for extra rich taste, dairy or dairy-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Chives finely chopped
- A pinch Smoked Paprika (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Wash the cauliflower, remove the stem, and cut it into small, uniform flower-like pieces.
- Cook the cauliflower until very soft by either steaming for 10-15 minutes over boiling water or boiling for 8-12 minutes in cold water.
- After cooking, thoroughly drain the cauliflower in a colander, shaking to remove excess water.
- Melt butter in a large pan or pot, add chopped garlic, and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the drained cauliflower to the pot with the garlic and butter.
- Mash with a potato masher for a chunky mix or use a hand blender/food processor for a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Slowly incorporate milk and cream cheese (if using), continuing to mash or blend to achieve the desired consistency.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or garlic powder if desired.
- Garnish with fresh chives before serving.
Notes
For best results, ensure the cauliflower is very soft and thoroughly drained to avoid watery mashed cauliflower. Adjust the amount of milk and cream cheese to reach your preferred consistency. For an extra kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added.