Roasted Garlic and Herb Mashed Cauliflower

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 4 cloves garlic, halved horizontally
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or dairy-free alternative)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss cauliflower florets and garlic cloves with 1 tablespoon olive oil on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, until cauliflower is tender and garlic is golden.
2. 2 While cauliflower roasts, warm the vegetable broth in a small saucepan.
3. 3 Transfer roasted cauliflower and garlic to a large mixing bowl. Squeeze roasted garlic out of skins and discard skins.
4. 4 Mash cauliflower with a potato masher. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender.
5. 5 Add butter and warmed broth, then mash until creamy. Adjust consistency with more broth if needed.
6. 6 Stir in parsley and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix in Parmesan if using.
7. 7 Serve warm, garnished with extra herbs if desired.

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Potato masher or immersion blender
• Mixing bowl

Variations

• Add sautéed leeks or shallots for extra flavor.
• Swap herbs for a sprinkle of nutmeg and a dash of cayenne for a different twist.

Substitutions

• Use coconut oil instead of olive oil for a tropical twist.
• Replace butter with olive oil for a dairy-free option.

Pairings

• A crisp Chardonnay or a hoppy IPA
• A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, roast garlic cloves longer until they’re deeply caramelized.
• Add a splash of cream or milk for an even richer texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a bit of broth or cream.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted chicken or a hearty lentil stew.
• Serve alongside grilled fish for a light yet satisfying meal.

FAQ