Name: Mashed Cauliflower Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium cauliflower; 4 garlic cloves; ⅓ cup 1% buttermilk; salt and pepper; 1 tbsp salted butter

Mashed cauliflower is a delightful and healthy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. This creamy, flavorful dish is perfect for those looking to cut down on carbs without sacrificing taste.

Photos of Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

Buttermilk is the one ingredient that might not be commonly found in every kitchen. When heading to the supermarket, make sure to pick up buttermilk, which adds a tangy richness to the dish. If you can't find it, you can use a substitute by mixing regular milk with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar.

Ingredients for Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

Cauliflower: A versatile vegetable that serves as the base of the dish, providing a mild flavor and creamy texture when mashed.

Garlic: Adds a robust, aromatic element to the mashed cauliflower, enhancing the overall flavor.

Buttermilk: Contributes a tangy richness and helps achieve a smoother consistency.

Salt: Essential for elevating the flavors of the dish.

Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the flavor profile.

Butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the mashed cauliflower.

One reader, Joanie Odonnell says:

This mashed cauliflower recipe is fantastic! The buttermilk adds a nice tang, and the garlic gives it a wonderful depth of flavor. It's creamy, delicious, and a perfect low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes. Highly recommend!

Joanie Odonnell

Techniques Required for Perfect Mashed Cauliflower

How to steam or boil cauliflower and garlic: To steam, place cauliflower and garlic in a steamer basket over boiling water, cover, and cook until tender. To boil, place them in a pot of boiling water and cook until soft. How to drain cauliflower: Use a colander to drain the water from the cooked cauliflower and garlic. How to purée with an immersion blender: Place the cooked cauliflower, garlic, buttermilk, butter, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Insert the immersion blender and blend until smooth.

How To Make Mashed Cauliflower

This cauliflower recipe resembles a classic mashed potato! It’s creamy, loaded with simple seasonings, and deliciously low-carb.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cauliflower head,medium, cut up into florets
4garlic cloves,crushed
⅓cupbuttermilk,1%
salt and pepper,to taste
1tbspsalted butter,plus optional more for serving

Instructions

Steam or boil the cauliflower and garlic until soft.
Drain the cauliflower, then place in a bowl.
Add in the buttermilk, butter, salt, pepper into the bowl, then purée with an immersion blender.
Top with butter, serve, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Alternatively, a regular blender would work fine when pureeing.

Nutrition

Calories: 72.92kcal
Fat: 3.47g
Saturated Fat: 2.12g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.85g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.17g
Carbohydrates: 8.96g
Fiber: 2.87g
Sugar: 3.58g
Protein: 3.53g
Cholesterol: 8.45mg
Sodium: 376.48mg
Calcium: 61.86mg
Potassium: 452.19mg
Iron: 0.68mg
Vitamin A: 27.27µg
Vitamin C: 65.94mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Mashed Cauliflower Success

For a smoother texture, make sure to thoroughly drain the cauliflower after steaming or boiling. Excess water can make the mashed cauliflower too runny. Additionally, you can roast the garlic cloves before adding them to the mix for a deeper, richer flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Mashed Cauliflower

Pre-cut cauliflower: Buy pre-cut cauliflower to save time on chopping.

Microwave steaming: Use the microwave to steam cauliflower and garlic quickly.

Pre-minced garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic to skip peeling and chopping.

Immersion blender: An immersion blender is faster and easier to clean than a traditional blender.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch and freeze portions for quick reheating later.

Substitute Ingredients For Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

cauliflower - Substitute with broccoli: Broccoli has a similar texture and can be mashed to create a comparable consistency.
cauliflower - Substitute with turnips: Turnips offer a slightly different flavor but can be mashed similarly to cauliflower.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the dish well.
garlic cloves - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can add a similar depth of flavor without the need for fresh garlic.
1% buttermilk - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a creamy texture and tangy flavor similar to buttermilk.
1% buttermilk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option, though it may be less creamy.
salted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can add a rich flavor and healthy fats, making it a good alternative to butter.
salted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a unique flavor and can be used as a dairy-free substitute for butter.

Presenting Mashed Cauliflower in Style

Use a ring mold: Place the mashed cauliflower into a ring mold to create a perfectly shaped mound on the plate. This adds a touch of elegance and precision.
Garnish with microgreens: Top the mashed cauliflower with a small handful of microgreens. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, vibrant flavor.
Drizzle with truffle oil: Lightly drizzle truffle oil over the mashed cauliflower for an added layer of luxury and depth of flavor.
Add a garlic chip: Thinly slice a garlic clove and fry until golden and crispy. Place the garlic chip on top of the mashed cauliflower for a crunchy texture contrast.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables: Arrange a few pieces of roasted vegetables like baby carrots and asparagus around the mashed cauliflower. This adds color and variety to the plate.
Sprinkle with sea salt flakes: Finish the dish with a light sprinkle of sea salt flakes to enhance the flavors and add a slight crunch.
Use a warm plate: Ensure the plate is warm before serving to keep the mashed cauliflower at the perfect temperature for your guests.

Essential Tools for Making Mashed Cauliflower

Steamer basket: Used to steam the cauliflower and garlic until they are soft.
Large pot: If boiling, this is used to cook the cauliflower and garlic.
Colander: Used to drain the cauliflower after steaming or boiling.
Mixing bowl: Where you place the drained cauliflower and garlic for mixing.
Immersion blender: Used to purée the cauliflower mixture to a smooth consistency.
Measuring cup: Used to measure the buttermilk accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the butter, salt, and pepper.
Serving dish: Used to serve the finished mashed cauliflower.
Knife: Used to cut the cauliflower into smaller pieces for easier cooking.
Cutting board: Provides a surface to cut the cauliflower.

Storing and Freezing Mashed Cauliflower

Let the mashed cauliflower cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the fridge, transfer the cooled mashed cauliflower to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4-5 days.
If you plan to freeze the mashed cauliflower, follow these steps:
- Divide the cooled mashed cauliflower into portion-sized freezer bags or airtight containers.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the bags or containers with the date and amount.
- Lay the bags flat in the freezer for easier storage and quicker thawing.
Frozen mashed cauliflower will maintain its best quality for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw the frozen mashed cauliflower overnight in the refrigerator.
Transfer the thawed mashed cauliflower to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
You can also reheat the mashed cauliflower in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
If the reheated mashed cauliflower seems a bit dry, add a splash of milk, cream, or butter to restore its creamy texture.

How To Reheat Mashed Cauliflower Leftovers

The best way to reheat leftover mashed cauliflower is to use a microwave. Place the desired amount of mashed cauliflower in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the mashed cauliflower from drying out.
Another option is to reheat the mashed cauliflower on the stovetop. Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a saucepan and add a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the consistency. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the mashed cauliflower to become grainy or watery.
If you have an oven-safe dish, you can also reheat the mashed cauliflower in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the mashed cauliflower in the dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking and sprinkle some grated cheese or breadcrumbs over the top.
Lastly, if you have a sous vide machine, you can use it to reheat the mashed cauliflower to perfection. Place the mashed cauliflower in a vacuum-sealed bag and submerge it in a water bath set to 140°F (60°C). Reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method ensures even heating and maintains the original texture of the mashed cauliflower.

Interesting Fact About Mashed Cauliflower

A fun fact about this mashed cauliflower recipe is that it serves as a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. This makes it a great option for those following a keto or low-carb diet.

Is Making Mashed Cauliflower at Home Cost-Effective?

This mashed cauliflower recipe is quite cost-effective, especially for households looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet. With a medium cauliflower costing around $2, garlic cloves at $0.50, ⅓ cup of buttermilk at $0.50, and 1 tbsp of butter at $0.25, the total cost is approximately $3.25. For a household of 4, this is an affordable and nutritious side dish. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Mashed Cauliflower Healthy or Unhealthy?

The mashed cauliflower recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Cauliflower is a nutrient-dense vegetable, low in calories and carbohydrates, and high in fiber, vitamins (C, K, and B6), and minerals (folate and potassium). The recipe also uses minimal amounts of butter and low-fat buttermilk, reducing the overall fat content. The garlic adds flavor and provides additional health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this dish, consider the following suggestions:

Increase the proportion of cauliflower to butter and buttermilk to lower the calorie and fat content
Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier fat source
Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley for extra flavor and antioxidants
Incorporate other vegetables, such as roasted garlic, sautéed spinach, or caramelized onions, to increase the nutrient diversity
Experiment with different spices and seasonings, like smoked paprika, cumin, or nutritional yeast, to create unique flavor profiles without relying on excessive salt or fat

Editor's Opinion on This Mashed Cauliflower Recipe

This mashed cauliflower recipe is a delightful, low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. The use of buttermilk adds a subtle tang, while the garlic infuses a rich depth of flavor. The butter provides a creamy texture and a touch of indulgence. For an extra layer of sophistication, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley. This dish is both simple and elegant, making it a versatile side for any meal.

Enhance Your Mashed Cauliflower Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the crispy, caramelized edges of Brussels sprouts paired with a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze. This side-dish adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy texture of your mashed cauliflower.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: Honey-Glazed Carrots: Picture tender carrots bathed in a luscious honey glaze, offering a sweet contrast to the savory notes of your main dish. These vibrant, glossy carrots will add a pop of color and a touch of sweetness to your plate.

Herb-Crusted Salmon: Herb-Crusted Salmon: Envision a succulent salmon fillet encrusted with a fragrant blend of herbs and spices. The rich, flaky fish provides a protein-packed complement to the light and airy mashed cauliflower, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Quinoa and Cranberry Salad: Quinoa and Cranberry Salad: Think of a refreshing quinoa salad studded with tart cranberries, crunchy nuts, and a zesty citrus dressing. This vibrant salad adds a burst of color and a delightful mix of textures to your meal, making it a perfect sidekick to the creamy cauliflower.

Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Visualize tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and sprinkled with garlic and Parmesan cheese. The savory, cheesy notes of this dish provide a wonderful contrast to the smooth and buttery mashed cauliflower.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Mashed Cauliflower

Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Soup: Warm up with a bowl of this creamy cauliflower soup, infused with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and a hint of thyme. Perfect for a cozy night in!

Cauliflower Rice Pilaf: Transform cauliflower into a delightful rice alternative, sautéed with onions, garlic, and a medley of herbs. A light and flavorful side dish that pairs well with any main course.

Cauliflower Gratin: Indulge in this cheesy cauliflower gratin, baked to golden perfection with a creamy béchamel sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. A decadent twist on a classic comfort food.

Cauliflower Tabbouleh: Enjoy a fresh and vibrant tabbouleh salad made with finely chopped cauliflower, parsley, mint, and tomatoes. Tossed in a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing, it's a refreshing and healthy dish.

Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: Spice things up with these crispy cauliflower bites, coated in a tangy buffalo sauce and served with a cooling ranch dip. A perfect appetizer or snack for any gathering.

Why trust this Mashed Cauliflower Recipe:

This mashed cauliflower recipe is a fantastic alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. The combination of cauliflower and garlic creates a rich, flavorful dish that is both healthy and satisfying. Using buttermilk adds a creamy texture without the extra calories, while a touch of salted butter enhances the taste. This recipe is simple to follow and delivers a delicious, nutritious side dish that everyone will love.

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FAQ:

How do I know when the cauliflower is soft enough?

You’ll know the cauliflower is ready when you can easily pierce it with a fork. It should be tender but not mushy.

Can I use a regular blender instead of an immersion blender?

Yes, you can use a regular blender. Just make sure to blend in batches if needed and be careful with the hot ingredients.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the tanginess.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last for about 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Just swap the buttermilk for a plant-based milk and use a vegan butter substitute.