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!
- 16 May 2025
- Cook time 20 min
- Prep time 15 min
- 8 Servings
- 10 Ingredients
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:
Instructions:
- Cut the cauliflower into florets.
- Peel and cube the potatoes.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 Size | 320 grams |
| Energy | |
| Calories 300kcal | 15% |
| Protein | |
| Protein 12g | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | |
| Carbohydrates 36g | 10% |
| Fiber 6g | 15% |
| Sugar 3.68g | 4% |
| Fat | |
| Fat 22g | 25% |
| Saturated 8g | 25% |
| Cholesterol 33mg | - |
| Vitamins | |
| Vitamin A 110ug | 12% |
| Choline 80mg | 14% |
| Vitamin B1 0.20mg | 17% |
| Vitamin B2 0.21mg | 16% |
| Vitamin B3 2.37mg | 15% |
| Vitamin B6 0.68mg | 40% |
| Vitamin B9 90ug | 23% |
| Vitamin B12 0.22ug | 9% |
| Vitamin C 88mg | 94% |
| Vitamin E 0.53mg | 4% |
| Vitamin K 27ug | 22% |
| Minerals | |
| Calcium, Ca 210mg | 16% |
| Copper, Cu 0.28mg | 31% |
| Iron, Fe 2.11mg | 19% |
| Magnesium, Mg 70mg | 17% |
| Phosphorus, P 280mg | 22% |
| Potassium, K 1060mg | 31% |
| Selenium, Se 10ug | 18% |
| Sodium, Na 250mg | 16% |
| Zinc, Zn 1.83mg | 17% |
| 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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