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Garlic Herb Cauliflower Mash

Silky, buttery mashed cauliflower loaded with roasted garlic and fresh herbs that rivals mashed potatoes in comfort while keeping carbs low. A satisfying keto side dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.

25 minEasyServes 4140 cal/serving

AmericanSideStovetopKetoVegetarianLow CarbGluten-FreeEgg-FreeLow-SodiumPork-FreeAlcohol-FreeCorn-Free

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Ingredients

  • 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 4 garlic cloves, peeled
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly ground

Instructions

  1. 1

    Fill a large pot with 2 inches of salted water and bring to a boil. Add 1 head cut into florets cauliflower and 4 peeled garlic cloves, cover, and steam for 12 to 15 minutes until the cauliflower is very tender and pierces easily with a fork.

  2. 2

    Drain the cauliflower and garlic thoroughly. Transfer to a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towel and press firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. This step ensures a fluffy, non-watery mash.

  3. 3

    Transfer the dried cauliflower and garlic to a food processor or high-powered blender. Add 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1/4 cup softened full-fat cream cheese, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 tbsp heavy cream. Process until very smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.

  4. 4

    Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Pulse briefly to combine.

  5. 5

    Transfer to a serving bowl and fold in most of the 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives and 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves. Top with the remaining herbs and serve hot.

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Questions

How much time should I plan for Garlic Herb Cauliflower Mash?

As written, 25 minutes: 10 of prep and 15 of cooking. The longest single stretch is step 1, at 15 minutes.

What equipment do I need for Garlic Herb Cauliflower Mash?

Beyond a knife and a board, the method uses a food processor (step 3) and a blender (step 3). If you do not have one, a sharp knife and patience, or a blender in short pulses, stands in for the food processor.

Is there a substitute for Parmesan in Garlic Herb Cauliflower Mash?

The entry for Garlic Herb Cauliflower Mash calls for 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated. In its place: Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano, measure for measure. For dairy-free, use nutritional yeast at half the volume.

Can I make Garlic Herb Cauliflower Mash dairy-free?

Not cleanly. Here the dairy (2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1/4 cup full-fat cream cheese, softened, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, finely grated, 2 tbsp heavy cream) is the backbone of the dish, and plant-based substitutes change both its texture and its flavor. If you need strictly dairy-free, start from the dairy-free side collection instead.

How many carbs are in Garlic Herb Cauliflower Mash?

One serving (the recipe makes 4) has 8 g of carbohydrate in about 140 calories, with 6 g protein and 8 g fat, plus 2 g fiber and 280 mg sodium. The figures are estimates computed from the ingredient list.

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