Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (2024)

by healthyrecipeecstasy

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P-A-L-E-O. It’s happening. OK, it’s not 100 percent “I’m giving up pasta for life” happening. No, that’s never happening because pasta = my happy place. But it’s like 80percent “I’m going to focus on lean proteins and veggies and fruit and nuts and seeds and all things caveman for a little while” happening because (a) I’m well into my fourth month postpartum and I’m still wearing maternity pants (not that I’m complaining too much because comfy…so comfy) and (b) I just got a knock down drag out summer stomach flu where I could eat nothing but bagels and butter for a week straight and I need a system reboot.

Cue the cauliflower mash.

Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (2)

My first foray into cauli mash was back in law school when my roommate and I were experimenting with the South Beach Diet (remember that old thang?). She seemedhappy to live on salads for two weeks, butI never made it longer than three days on Phase 1. Not eating bread was torture for me. Hashtags weren’t a thing back then but my hashtag would have been #thisgirlhasnowillpower.

Anywho, eating Paleo and eating South Beach are kind of similar: produce and lean protein = yeah and sugar and carby carbs = nah.Except South Beach is sooo 10 years ago. And, by this time tomorrow, I’m sure Paleo will be so five minutes ago but I’m still gonna go there because it makes my body feel mmm mmm good.

I don’t encourage jumping from one fad diet to another – you all know I’m all about the moderation – but I’m also all about a plan and following a certain diet for a little while is an easy way for me to stay on target and focus. With that said, I can NOT go for more than 20 minutes a few days without some bread-like substance which is why I’m not going full hog on the Paleo and I’m sticking to the 80/20 route. If 3 out of 4 of my meals for the day are Paleo or Paleo-like than my other meal can be whatever it wants to be, and let’s be serious, it probably wants to be some form of carb and dairy and/or a big ass piece of cake.

Back to the cauliflower mash. This I do not regret – ever. It’s basically a big fat bowl of vegetable mush and I LOVE IT. I know vegetable mush doesn’t sound attractive so let me rephrase – it’s creamy, silky, oily, potato-like goodness without the starch factor, the dairy factor or any other forbidden factors. All the flavor comes from roasted garlic, olive oil and veggiestock with some chives mixed in for good times. Even though Paleo is all about the meat, this dish is all about the veg so it’s vegan friendly.

Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (3)

I am so not a cauliflower fan when it’s rocking out au natural but when it’s all disguised up in a mash or pizza crust, it’s AMAZING.

If you don’t believe me, ask the potato-loving hubby. He said to me, and I quote: “I can’t believe I’m about to say this, but can I finish off the cauliflower mash? It was actually really good.”

By all means, sir. By all means.

Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (5)

Roasted Garlic and Chive Cauliflower Mash

Healthy Recipe Ecstasy

TO ROAST THE GARLIC: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Cut the top off the garlic bulb to expose the cloves. Place the cut bulb on a large piece of aluminum foil and drizzle with olive oil and salt. Gather the edges of the foil and press together to completely encapsulate the garlic. Bake for 30 minutes or until the cloves are completely soft. Unwrap the garlic bulb and squeeze the roasted garlic out of each clove into a bowl.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 1 bulb roasted garlic
  • 1 head cauliflower
  • 2 cups low-sodium vegetable stock you may need an extra cup if you have a large head of cauliflower
  • Coarse salt to taste
  • Freshly-ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons diced fresh chives plus more for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil plus more for drizzling

Instructions

  • Coarsely chop the cauliflower. Add the chopped cauliflower and two cups stock to a medium sauce pan. Bring to a boil. Turn the heat down to low and simmer for 15 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.

  • Remove the cauliflower from the pot with a slotted spoon.

  • Add the cauliflower to a food processor along with 2 tablespoons stock, 2 tablespoons olive oil, roasted garlic, salt and pepper. Process until combined - add more stock if needed for desired consistency.

  • Stir in the fresh chives. Garnish with additional chives and a heavy drizzle of olive oil. Trust me on the heavy drizzle. It's amaze-balls.

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Comments

  1. Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (6)Ann says

    Just curious, did you serve this hot? Is it a summer, room-temp or cold dish?

    • Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (7)healthyrecipeecstasy says

      Yes, I served it hot. You can serve it warm but I wouldn’t serve it cold. It’s not a summer dish specifically but it can be enjoyed year round because it’s so light. It would go great with a nice piece of crispy fish or some grilled chicken.

  2. Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (8)Bam's Kitchen says

    Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (9)
    Michelle, you have made me want to try this. Your version looks so creamy and delicious. Eating like a caveman is good stuff! We have been trying to do that more around here too. Difficult with teenagers but trying all the same.

    • Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (10)healthyrecipeecstasy says

      Thanks Bobbi!

  3. Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (11)Meg @ Noming thru Life says

    Did someone say roasted garlic? Okay. I’m sold! This looks fantastic and your photos are BEAUTIFUL!!

    • Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (12)healthyrecipeecstasy says

      Thanks so much Meg! Glad you stopped by. 🙂

      • Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (13)S. Smith says

        Sorry if this is a stupid question, but do I have to roast the garlic first? The ingredients call for a bulb of roasted garlic. Or do I buy it that way? Thank you 🙂

        • Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (14)healthyrecipeecstasy says

          Hi! There are instructions for roasting the garlic at the top of the recipe – right before the ingredients. Yes, you have to roast the garlic first and then you squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of the skin to mix them with the cauliflower.

      • Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (15)S. Smith says

        Can I substitute minced garlic in a pinch? Or fresh garlic, not roasted?

        • Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (16)healthyrecipeecstasy says

          You can use minced garlic but I’m not sure of the ratio. Roasting the garlic takes away the bite of the fresh garlic so you can use a lot more of it (a whole bulb) and get a deeper flavor. If you use minced garlic I would start with just a few cloves because when it’s fresh it can be overwhelming.

  4. Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (17)theresa says

    Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (18)
    This was delicious and easy enough for this beginner level chef!! And perfect to serve for my lactose intolerant friends. I got rave reviews all around the table – I’ll definitely be making this again, thank you!

    • Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (19)healthyrecipeecstasy says

      That’s awesome Theresa! I’m so glad you enjoyed it!

  5. Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (20)Melissa says

    Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (21)
    Once this is made, how long can it keep in the fridge? Or can it be?

    • Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (22)healthyrecipeecstasy says

      Hi Melissa! Yes, you can keep it in the fridge. I kept it for about 3 days.

Trackbacks

  1. […] decided to compromise and surprise Alasdair with a filet and mash. Cauliflower Mash that is. Click here for my […]

  2. […] Low-Carb, Gluten-Free Pizza?? C’est Possible?? Yes, it’s possible AND delicious. If you’re on Pinterest, then it’s hard to miss the new rage in pizza: cauliflower-crust. Years ago, I remember testing out cauliflower mashed potatoes. I’ve never beena huge fan of cauliflower, soI was skeptical to say the least. But I was pleasantly surprised that cauliflower produced a creamy mashed substance that resembled mashed potatoes. Sure nothing can beat the real thing, but add a couple pats of butter and cauliflower becomes the potato’s first cousin. Check out myGarlic Cauliflower Mash recipe. […]

  3. […] time, it hit me. Cauliflower puree. I’ve made cauliflower crust pizza, cauliflower soup, and cauliflower mash, and each time, the cauliflower has taken on a new form that excites and delights my palate. As far […]

  4. […] time, it hit me. Cauliflower puree. I’ve made cauliflower crust pizza, cauliflower soup, and cauliflower mash, and each time, the cauliflower has taken on a new form that excites and delights my palate. As far […]

  5. […] getting a little carried away with the cauliflower. First the cauliflower crust pizza, then the cauliflower mash, now cauliflower soup. But I can’t help it. Cauliflower, former enemy number one, is now my […]

  6. […] meat.He’s even on board with the veggie part, especially when those veggies are drowning in olive oil and roasted garlic. And Paleo, for me, is really about upping the veggies. We’re not eating that much more meat […]

  7. […] a big plate of rice. Veggies? Not so much. But, in the past few weeks, he has happily gobbled down vegetable mashes, lettuce wraps, cabbage salads, and, most recently, noodle-less lasagna (more on that […]

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Garlic Cauliflower Mash - Healthy Recipe Ecstasy (2024)

FAQs

How do you keep mashed cauliflower from being watery? ›

Here are some popular options:
  1. Cream or Milk: Incorporate heavy cream, half-and-half, or whole milk to add creaminess to mashed cauliflower. Gradually add small amounts until you achieve the desired thickness.
  2. Butter: Butter contributes richness and helps achieve a smoother texture. ...
  3. Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream:
Apr 11, 2023

What do you add to cauliflower to thicken mash? ›

You can add a litle softened cream cheese to the pot in the final step and stir until melted. Or you can add a keto thickener like glucomannan or xanthan gum. Be sure to whisk it in well when the mashed cauliflower is hot. You don't need more than about ¼ teaspoon per head of cauliflower.

How long does cauliflower puree last? ›

Make ahead: Mashed cauliflower can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

How many carbs are in garlic mashed cauliflower? ›

Birds Eye Mashed Cauliflower Roasted Garlic (0.5 cup) contains 7g total carbs, 5g net carbs, 1g fat, 1g protein, and 45 calories.

How do you thicken cauliflower puree? ›

Using a blender or immersion blender, blend cauliflower and liquid to form a very smooth purée. Season with salt. (You can adjust purée consistency as needed: Thicken by cooking down further while stirring often over low heat in a wide nonstick skillet, or thin by whisking in liquid, such as stock, cream, or water.)

Why is my cauliflower mash grainy? ›

Recipe Tips and Tricks

When you're cooking your cauliflower florets, make sure they're fork-tender before removing them from the pot. If the cauliflower isn't cooked long enough, it can make your mashed cauliflower grainy.

Why do you add milk to boiled cauliflower? ›

Adding milk to the water will help the cauliflower keep its white color and will sweeten the flavor of the cauliflower. Bring water to a boil and add the cauliflower pieces. Allow the water to return to a boil and gently boil for 3 to 5 minutes.

Why is mashed cauliflower good for you? ›

Creamy Mashed Cauliflower is a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Primarily due to the carbs. 1 cup of raw cauliflower has 5g of carbohydrates; where 1 cup of raw white potatoes has 12g. Perhaps even more important is the Glycemic Index score of the two.

Can dogs eat cauliflower? ›

Yes, dogs can eat cauliflower in moderation, either raw or cooked. Cauliflower is a source of dietary fiber, vitamin K, and vitamin C for dogs. Some dogs may dislike the slightly bitter taste of cauliflower. Avoid cauliflower with seasonings or oils, as they can cause upset stomach.

When should you throw away cauliflower? ›

As The Kitchn notes, cauliflower does see oxidative brown spots naturally, but it's not time to toss the cauliflower until the color turns from light brown to dark brown or black. That's the point of no return. Other telltale signs of spoilage for cauliflower include mold, off-smells, slimy texture, or soft spots.

Does cauliflower have more carbs than potatoes? ›

Compared to potatoes, cauliflower has less than half the calories per the same 100 gram serving. (source) Cauliflower has only 3 grams of “net carbs” per 100 gram serving, while potatoes have 14 grams of net carbs.

Does mashed cauliflower have protein? ›

Mashed Cauliflower (1 piece) contains 0.9g total carbs, 0.4g net carbs, 0.5g fat, 0.4g protein, and 9 calories.

Is cauliflower high carb? ›

“Cauliflower is another vegetable that's low in carbs, but also very high in vitamins and phytochemicals,” Fear says. Add chopped cauliflower to your salads, or top with paprika and garlic powder and roast in the oven. Riced cauliflower also makes a great low-carb replacement for traditional rice.

How do you get water out of riced cauliflower? ›

The best way to deal with the liquid is to put the riced cauliflower in a covered microwave-safe dish, heat it thoroughly to get all the liquid out of it you can, then drain it. If you have to cook it on the stovetop, add as little water as possible and stir frequently to keep it from sticking to the pan.

How do you squeeze water out of riced cauliflower? ›

It really is as simple as putting the cooked and cooled cauliflower on a clean flour sack towel , wrapping it up and squeezing all the water out. I like to use flour sack towels because they're large and really thin, which makes them easy to squeeze tight and get out as much water as possible.

How do you make runny mashed thicker? ›

Add a Thickening Agent

This is the most common way to thicken mashed potatoes. You can use what you have on hand: Flour, cornstarch, or powdered milk are all solid options that are probably already in your pantry. Potato flour and potato starch would work as well.

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