Cauliflower and pesto swirl mash

Savor the ultimate comfort food with our Cauliflower and Pesto Swirl Mash. This delightful dish combines creamy mashed cauliflower and potatoes with a rich, homemade basil-pine nut pesto. Enhanced with garlic, Parmesan, ricotta cheese, and a hint of lemon, this dish is a flavorful and nutritious side that will elevate any meal. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions!

  • 29 Mar 2025
  • Cook time 20 min
  • Prep time 15 min
  • 8 Servings
  • 10 Ingredients

Cauliflower and pesto swirl mash

Cauliflower and pesto swirl mash is an irresistible combination that brings together the creamy texture of mashed potatoes and the distinct flavor of cauliflower, all elevated by a delicious homemade pesto. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy rich, savory flavors and want a unique spin on traditional mashed potatoes. It's ideal for dinner parties, festive occasions, or simply as a special side dish for family dinners.

Ingredients:

1 cauliflower
900g
6 potatoes
1200g
2 garlic cloves
6g
1 cup basil leaves
7g
2 tbsp pine nuts
30g
1 tbsp lemon juice
5g
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
80g
1/4 cup olive oil
60g
1 cup ricotta cheese
230g
1/4 cup butter
54g

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Cut the cauliflower into florets.
- Peel and cube the potatoes.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
- Place the cauliflower florets and cubed potatoes in a large pot.
- Fill the pot with enough water to cover the vegetables.
- Add a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Make the Pesto:
- While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the pesto.
- In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, minced garlic, lemon juice, and grated parmesan.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until a smooth pesto forms.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Set aside.
4. Prepare the Mash:
- Drain the cooked cauliflower and potatoes.
- Return them to the pot or place in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the ricotta cheese and butter.
- Mash until smooth and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Serve:
- Gently fold half of the prepared pesto into the mash to create a swirl effect.
- Serve the mash warm with the remaining pesto drizzled on top.
6. Optional Garnish:
- Garnish with additional pine nuts, grated parmesan, or fresh basil leaves if desired.

Tips:

- To ensure a smooth and creamy mash, make sure both the potatoes and cauliflower are thoroughly cooked before mashing.

- You can toast the pine nuts in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes until golden brown to enhance their flavor.

- If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic cloves before adding them to the mash.

- Feel free to adjust the consistency of the mash by adding more or less butter and olive oil according to your preference.

- For a lighter version, you can substitute ricotta cheese with Greek yogurt.

- Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.

This cauliflower and pesto swirl mash is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. The combination of tender potatoes and cauliflower with the robust flavors of homemade pesto creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its beautiful swirls. Whether you're serving it as a side or enjoying it on its own, this recipe is bound to impress and delight your taste buds.

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size320 grams
Energy
Calories 300kcal15%
Protein
Protein 12g8%
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates 36g10%
Fiber 6g15%
Sugar 3.68g4%
Fat
Fat 22g25%
Saturated 8g25%
Cholesterol 33mg-
Vitamins
Vitamin A 110ug12%
Choline 80mg14%
Vitamin B1 0.20mg17%
Vitamin B2 0.21mg16%
Vitamin B3 2.37mg15%
Vitamin B6 0.68mg40%
Vitamin B9 90ug23%
Vitamin B12 0.22ug9%
Vitamin C 88mg94%
Vitamin E 0.53mg4%
Vitamin K 27ug22%
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 210mg16%
Copper, Cu 0.28mg31%
Iron, Fe 2.11mg19%
Magnesium, Mg 70mg17%
Phosphorus, P 280mg22%
Potassium, K 1060mg31%
Selenium, Se 10ug18%
Sodium, Na 250mg16%
Zinc, Zn 1.83mg17%
Water
Water 250g-
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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