20-Minute Mashed Cauliflower
This creamy mashed cauliflower combines tender florets, roasted garlic, and butter for a smooth, low-carb side dish. Quick, flavorful, and easy to make, it’s perfect for everyday meals or festive occasions.
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot
- 1 Food Processor
- 1 Chef’s Knife
- 1 Measuring spoons (set)
- 1 Silicone Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 medium head 2 lbs cauliflower, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- 7 roasted garlic cloves
- ⅛ –¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ –½ teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Chives optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Cauliflower Florets: Start by rinsing the cauliflower thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim off the stem and cut the head into evenly sized florets, about 1–2 inches each, to ensure uniform cooking. This preparation step is key for achieving perfectly tender pieces without overcooking.
- Boil Cauliflower: Fill a large pot halfway with water and bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Add a pinch of salt and carefully place the cauliflower florets into the boiling water. Cook for 10 minutes, or until a knife can pierce the florets easily, ensuring they are soft but not waterlogged.
- Drain and Transfer: Once the cauliflower is tender, drain it thoroughly using a colander to remove excess water. Transfer the hot florets immediately to a food processor or blender for pureeing. Removing extra moisture prevents the mash from becoming watery and helps achieve a creamy texture.
- Add Flavorful Ingredients: Add the melted butter, roasted garlic cloves, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper directly to the cauliflower in the processor. Pulse or blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides with a spatula for even consistency.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Carefully taste the mashed cauliflower and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or mustard to suit your preference. Blend briefly again if additional seasoning is added, ensuring the flavors are fully incorporated.
- Serve and Garnish: Scoop the creamy mash into a serving bowl and garnish with finely chopped chives if desired. Serve immediately while warm as a side dish, or cover and keep warm for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra creamy texture, ensure the cauliflower is well-drained before blending.
- Roasted garlic adds depth, but raw garlic can be used for a stronger flavor.
- Adjust butter amount for a lower-fat version, or substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Mash in batches if your food processor is small to avoid overfilling.
- Garnish with chives or parsley for freshness and color.