Save 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.
I first made this mash for my family on a chilly weeknight, and we were amazed at how flavorful and fluffy it tasted.
Ingredients
- Cauliflower: 1 large head (about 1.2 kg), cut into florets
- Garlic cloves: 4, peeled
- Unsalted butter (or olive oil for vegan option): 3 tablespoons
- Milk or unsweetened plant milk: 60 ml (1/4 cup)
- Lemon zest: Zest of 1 lemon
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon fresh
- Fresh chives: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Fresh parsley: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, plus more to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- Cook Cauliflower & Garlic:
- 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 & Steam Off Excess Moisture:
- Drain well and let the cauliflower sit in the colander for 2–3 minutes to steam off excess moisture.
- Mash Ingredients Together:
- Transfer cauliflower and garlic to a food processor or large bowl. Add butter milk lemon zest lemon juice salt and pepper.
- Blend or Mash:
- Blend or mash until completely smooth and creamy scraping down sides as needed.
- Add Herbs & Adjust Seasoning:
- 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 My kids always ask for seconds when this mash is part of dinner and it pairs beautifully with our Sunday roast.
Serving Suggestions
This cauliflower mash makes a fantastic base for saucy stews or a bright side for roasted chicken and grilled fish.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
Contains dairy (butter milk). To make it dairy-free use plant-based butter and milk alternatives. Per serving: 110 Calories 6 g fat 12 g carbohydrates 3 g protein.
Variations & Add-Ins
Mix in grated Parmesan (if not dairy-free) or experiment with roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor twist.
Save Bright herby and versatile this mash is the side dish you'll make again and again. Try swapping in your favorite herbs for a fun twist.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I achieve a creamy texture in cauliflower mash?
Cooking the cauliflower until very tender and blending with butter and milk ensures smooth, creamy consistency.
- → Can I make this without dairy?
Yes, substitute butter with olive oil and use unsweetened plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly version.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor best?
Fresh chives, parsley, and lemon zest add brightness and depth to the garlic-flavored mash.
- → Is roasted garlic necessary?
Roasted garlic adds sweetness and depth, but fresh garlic also works for a sharper flavor.
- → How can I adjust seasoning to taste?
Taste the mash after blending and add salt, pepper, or lemon juice incrementally to balance flavors.