Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Experience the rich and creamy texture of traditional mashed potatoes, but without the carbs! This delicious recipe for Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower presents a delightful twist on conventional comfort food. We’ve swapped the starchy potatoes for fresh cauliflower, creating a lighter dish that doesn't skimp on flavor. By incorporating both fresh and roasted garlic, along with creamy whipped cream cheese and savory Parmesan, every bite bursts with taste. This version is particularly appealing as it skips sour cream and mayonnaise, making it not just lower in calories, but also a healthier option. Perfect as a side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy the feeling of comfort food without the guilt!
4
Servings
80
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh cauliflower
1 head (rinsed, florets only)
water
as needed
fresh garlic
1 teaspoon (minced)
roasted garlic
2 cloves (mashed, to taste (optional))
fresh rosemary
1 teaspoon (minced, to taste (optional))
whipped cream cheese
1 tablespoon
Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (grated)
chicken bouillon powder
1/8 teaspoon
low sodium salt
1/8-1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
black pepper
1/8 teaspoon (to taste)
Smart Balance butter substitute
1 tablespoon (or unsalted butter, to taste)
Instructions
1
In a medium-large pot, bring water to a boil over high heat.
2
While waiting for the water to boil, cut the cauliflower into smaller, bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking.
3
Once boiling, carefully add the cauliflower florets to the pot and cook for approximately 6 minutes, or until fork-tender.
4
Drain the cauliflower well and return it to the pot, allowing any excess moisture to evaporate.
5
Using a stick blender or a traditional potato masher, mash the drained cauliflower until smooth and creamy.
6
Add whipped cream cheese, minced fresh garlic (or roasted garlic if preferred), minced rosemary (if using), grated Parmesan cheese, chicken bouillon powder, and Smart Balance (or unsalted butter) into the pot.
7
Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the cheese and garlic are evenly distributed.
8
Season the mixture with low sodium salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed based on your preference.
9
Serve warm as a comforting side dish and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
5.5
Fat
7
Carbs
2.5
Protein
2.5
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower?
It is a low-carb, creamy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes that uses cauliflower instead of starchy potatoes.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains 80 calories.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly and contains only 7 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian dish as it contains no meat products.
How long should I boil the cauliflower?
You should boil the cauliflower florets for approximately 6 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
What makes the cauliflower mashed creamy?
The creaminess comes from the combination of whipped cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
Can I use butter instead of Smart Balance?
Yes, you can substitute Smart Balance with an equal amount of unsalted butter.
Do I need a food processor for this recipe?
No, you can use either a stick blender or a traditional potato masher to achieve a smooth consistency.
How much fat is in each serving?
There are 5.5 grams of fat per serving.
How much fiber does this dish contain?
Each serving provides 2.5 grams of dietary fiber.
Does this recipe use mayonnaise or sour cream?
No, this recipe skips both mayonnaise and sour cream to provide a healthier, lower-calorie option.
Can I add fresh rosemary to this dish?
Yes, you can add 1 teaspoon of minced fresh rosemary for extra flavor.
How do I prevent the mashed cauliflower from being watery?
After draining the cauliflower, return it to the pot for a moment to allow any excess moisture to evaporate before mashing.
What type of garlic is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for minced fresh garlic, but you can also use 2 cloves of mashed roasted garlic for a deeper flavor.
How much Parmesan cheese is needed?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
What is the purpose of chicken bouillon powder?
It is used to add a savory, umami flavor depth to the mashed cauliflower.
How much protein is in a serving?
Each serving contains 2.5 grams of protein.
How should I prepare the cauliflower?
Rinse the cauliflower and cut it into smaller, bite-sized florets before boiling.
Is this recipe considered a side dish?
Yes, it is a comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 total ingredients including the optional ones.
Can I use regular salt?
The recipe suggests low sodium salt, but you can use regular salt adjusted to your taste preference.
How do I know when the cauliflower is done cooking?
The cauliflower is ready when it is fork-tender, which usually takes about 6 minutes of boiling.
Is this recipe low in carbohydrates?
Yes, with only 7g of carbs, it is significantly lower in carbohydrates than traditional mashed potatoes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While best served warm, you can prepare it and reheat it gently before serving.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The recipe data indicates no significant sugar content.
What type of cream cheese should I use?
The recipe specifies whipped cream cheese for a lighter, easier-to-blend texture.
What is the sodium content?
The specific sodium amount is not listed, but the recipe utilizes low sodium salt and 1/8 teaspoon of bouillon powder.
Is this an easy recipe for beginners?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe and involves simple boiling and mashing techniques.