Cajun-Spiced Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
This vibrant dish features succulent Cajun shrimp paired with a creamy, dairy-free mashed cauliflower. The creamy cauliflower not only serves as a delicious low-GI alternative to traditional mashed potatoes or grits, but it also adds a unique, velvety texture and a wholesome element. Seasoned with bold Cajun spices, the shrimp provides an exciting burst of flavor that will elevate your dining experience. Perfect for a healthy weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests, this recipe is allergy-friendly, gluten-free, and packed with flavor. For more nutritious recipes, be sure to visit my blog at www.innerharmonynutrition.com.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cauliflower
1 (cut into small florets)
Salt
1 teaspoon (for boiling water)
Milk or Nondairy Milk
50 ml (for mashing)
Parmesan Cheese
2 tablespoons (optional)
Olive Oil
1/2 tablespoon (for sautéing)
Onion
1/4 large (chopped)
Garlic
1 clove (chopped)
Shrimp
10 large (shelled and deveined)
Cajun Seasoning
1/2 teaspoon (for seasoning)
Parsley
2 tablespoons (chopped for garnish)
Black Pepper
to taste (for seasoning before serving)
Instructions
1
In a medium pot, bring a generous amount of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the cauliflower florets. Allow them to boil for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cauliflower is fork-tender.
2
Carefully drain the water from the pot and return the cauliflower to it. Add the milk and Parmesan cheese (if using) to the pot. Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with additional milk if desired, and season with a pinch of salt to taste. Set aside and keep warm.
3
In a large sauté pan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until translucent. Stir in the chopped garlic and continue cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4
Add the shrimp to the sauté pan, then sprinkle with the Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt. Sauté for approximately 4-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
5
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
6
To serve, place a generous scoop of creamy mashed cauliflower on each plate, then top with the sautéed Cajun shrimp. Finish with a sprinkle of black pepper and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main components of this recipe?
The dish consists of Cajun-spiced shrimp paired with a creamy, dairy-free mashed cauliflower.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is explicitly listed as a gluten-free meal.
How long does it take to boil the cauliflower?
The cauliflower should be boiled for approximately 10 to 12 minutes until it is fork-tender.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, by using nondairy milk and omitting the optional Parmesan cheese, the dish becomes dairy-free.
What is the benefit of using cauliflower instead of potatoes?
Cauliflower serves as a delicious low-GI alternative to traditional mashed potatoes or grits.
How long should the shrimp be cooked?
Sauté the shrimp for approximately 4 to 5 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through.
What seasoning is used for the shrimp?
The shrimp are seasoned with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt.
What type of oil is recommended for sautéing?
The recipe calls for 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil.
How do I prepare the cauliflower for boiling?
The cauliflower should be cut into small florets before being added to the boiling water.
What tools can be used to mash the cauliflower?
You can use either a potato masher or an immersion blender to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
Is the Parmesan cheese mandatory?
No, the Parmesan cheese is an optional ingredient for the mashed cauliflower.
What should the consistency of the mashed cauliflower be?
It should be smooth and creamy; you can add additional milk to adjust the consistency if desired.
How many shrimp are used in this recipe?
The recipe specifies using 10 large shrimp that have been shelled and deveined.
What is the first step in the cooking process?
The first step is to bring a medium pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the cauliflower.
How do I prepare the onion and garlic?
The onion and garlic should both be chopped before sautéing.
When do I add the garlic to the pan?
Stir in the chopped garlic after the onion has sautéed for about 3-4 minutes and becomes translucent.
What is the final garnish for the shrimp?
Chopped parsley is stirred in at the end for a fresh finish.
How should the dish be plated?
Place a generous scoop of cauliflower on each plate and top it with the sautéed Cajun shrimp.
Is this recipe suitable for guests?
Yes, it is described as an impressive dinner for guests or a healthy weeknight meal.
What is the total number of ingredients?
The recipe consists of 11 ingredients.
What seasoning is added right before serving?
A sprinkle of black pepper is recommended just before enjoying the meal.
What website provides more nutritious recipes like this?
You can find more recipes at www.innerharmonynutrition.com.
How much Cajun seasoning is required?
The recipe requires 1/2 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning.
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
While the recipe calls for a fresh head of cauliflower cut into florets, frozen cauliflower can generally be used if boiled until tender.
What are some tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include cajun shrimp, mashed cauliflower, low glycemic, and gluten-free.
How much milk is used in the cauliflower?
The recipe uses 50 ml of milk or nondairy milk.
What type of onion is suggested?
The recipe suggests 1/4 of a large onion.
Is this recipe considered allergy-friendly?
Yes, the description labels the recipe as allergy-friendly.
How much salt is used in the boiling water?
One teaspoon of salt is added to the water for boiling the cauliflower.
What is the texture of the shrimp after sautéing?
The shrimp should be succulent and provide a burst of flavor from the Cajun spices.