This Lemon Garlic Mashed Cauliflower is a creamy and zingy side dish that’s a delightful twist on classic mashed potatoes. With fresh lemon and garlic, it’s full of flavor!
Honestly, I love how simple it is to make. Just steam, mash, and mix in the goodies. It’s a healthier option that’s still super tasty—perfect for impressing guests or enjoying on your own!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: A whole head of cauliflower is perfect for this dish. If you’re in a pinch, frozen cauliflower florets work too; just make sure they’re thawed before cooking. You might also try broccoli for a different twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can be a quick alternative. If you’re not a big garlic fan, you could reduce the amount or even skip it altogether while keeping the lemon
Butter: Regular butter is great, but olive oil is a perfect substitute if you want a dairy-free option. You can switch to coconut oil if you prefer a hint of sweetness.
Cream Cheese or Sour Cream: These add creaminess. For a lighter version, blend in Greek yogurt, which also gives a nice tang, or skip these altogether for a simple mash!
How Can I Make Sure My Cauliflower is Smooth and Creamy?
The key to creamy mashed cauliflower is in the blending. After draining the cauliflower, let it sit for a couple of minutes to release steam—this helps avoid excess water. When blending:
- Add the sautéed garlic and butter before blending.
- Pulse a few times, then blend until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little milk or broth, but remember to add it slowly.
- You can also use a potato masher if you prefer a chunkier texture; just be sure to mash it well before adding the other ingredients.
Keep tasting and adjusting the seasoning as you go. The goal is a delightful balance of creamy and tangy. Enjoy your cooking!
Lemon Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower (about 1.5 to 2 lbs), cut into florets
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese or sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20-25 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10-12 minutes cooking the cauliflower, plus a few minutes for mixing and blending all those delicious ingredients together. It’s a fast and easy side dish that’s totally worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Cauliflower:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, toss in the cauliflower florets. Cook them until they’re very tender, which should take around 10-12 minutes. You want them soft enough to mash easily.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While the cauliflower is cooking, grab a small pan and melt the butter (or heat the olive oil) over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it just until it’s fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn. Once done, take it off the heat.
3. Blend Smoothly:
Drain the cooked cauliflower very well, as you don’t want extra water in your mash. Then, transfer it to a food processor or blender. Add the sautéed garlic and butter, cream cheese or sour cream (if you’d like), lemon zest, and lemon juice. Blend everything together until it’s nice and creamy. If it feels too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to smooth it out.
4. Season to Perfection:
Taste your mashed cauliflower and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. If you love that lemony flavor, feel free to add more lemon juice for an extra punch.
5. Serve it Up:
Now it’s time to transfer your delicious lemon garlic mashed cauliflower to a serving bowl. You can add a pat of butter on top, some additional lemon slices, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. Serve this warm as a tasty, healthy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
Enjoy this bright and creamy dish with your favorite main courses! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just make sure to thaw it before cooking. You can either microwave it or leave it in the fridge overnight. Keep in mind that frozen cauliflower may have a little extra moisture, so ensure to drain it well after cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Cream Cheese or Sour Cream?
No worries! You can omit them completely for a lighter version, or substitute with Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and added tang. Another option is to blend in some extra olive oil or a few tablespoons of milk or plant-based milk for moisture.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover lemon garlic mashed cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little splash of milk or broth to help maintain its creamy texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Just substitute the butter with olive oil, skip the cream cheese, and ensure you’re using a plant-based cream alternative if you want extra creaminess. This will keep it deliciously vegan!
