Save to Pinterest A light and creamy alternative to mashed potatoes, this cauliflower mash is infused with roasted garlic and fresh lemon-herb flavors for a bright, comforting side dish.
The first time I made this cauliflower mash, my family was surprised by how creamy and flavorful it turned out without any potatoes at all. The combination of lemon zest and chives makes it a fresh addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- Cauliflower: 1 large head cauliflower (about 1.2 kg), cut into florets
- Garlic: 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- Butter: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for vegan option)
- Milk: 60 ml (1/4 cup) milk or unsweetened plant milk
- Lemon zest: Zest of 1 lemon
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Chives: 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
- Parsley: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Boil Vegetables:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and garlic cloves. Cook for 12–15 minutes, until the cauliflower is very tender.
- Drain:
- Drain well and let the cauliflower sit in the colander for 2–3 minutes to steam off excess moisture.
- Mash:
- Transfer cauliflower and garlic to a food processor or large bowl. Add butter, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Blend:
- Blend or mash until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down sides as needed.
- Add Herbs:
- Stir in chives and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Save to Pinterest Cauliflower mash has quickly become a favorite on our weekend dinner table. My kids love adding their own toppings, like extra chives or a pinch of black pepper, making it a fun and customizable side.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, food processor (or blender or potato masher), knife and cutting board are all you need to whip up this mash in under 40 minutes.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter, milk). Substitute plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free option, and double-check labels if allergies are severe.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 110
Total Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Protein: 3 g
Save to Pinterest Try this bright mash as a fresh twist on a classic side. Its herb and lemon notes will elevate any dinner menu!
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I achieve a smooth texture for cauliflower mash?
Boil cauliflower until very tender and drain well. Then, blend with butter and milk until creamy, scraping sides for uniform consistency.
- → Can the garlic flavor be adjusted?
Yes, roasting garlic before mixing adds a sweeter, milder taste, while fresh garlic yields a stronger flavor.
- → What herbs complement the cauliflower mash best?
Fresh chives and parsley provide bright, fresh notes that balance the richness of the mash effectively.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegan diets?
Substitute butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk to make the mash vegan-friendly without sacrificing creaminess.
- → How can I enhance the flavor of this cauliflower side?
Adding lemon zest and juice brightens the dish, while a drizzle of olive oil or grated Parmesan can deepen its richness.