Mashed cauliflower with parmesan and chives
Mashed cauliflower with parmesan and chives offers a creamy, low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. This dish combines the subtle flavor of cauliflower with rich parmesan and a hint of garlic, making it a perfect side for any meal.
Cook time 6 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
1 cauliflower1 tbsp cream cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic
1 tsp chicken broth cubes
1/8 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp chives
3 tbsp butter
Mashed cauliflower with parmesan and chives is a delicious and low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. This creamy and flavorful dish combines the subtle taste of cauliflower with the rich umami of parmesan cheese and the fresh zest of chives. Whether you're looking to cut back on carbs or simply want to add a tasty vegetable side to your meal, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Instructions:
- Remove the outer leaves and the stem from the cauliflower.
- Chop the cauliflower into small florets for even cooking.
- Place the cauliflower florets in a large pot and add enough water to cover them.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is very tender. You can check tenderness by piercing a floret with a fork—it should go through easily.
- Drain the cooked cauliflower thoroughly in a colander.
- Return the cauliflower to the hot pot (with the heat off) and let it sit for a minute or two. This helps to dry out any remaining moisture, which will give you a creamier mash.
- Transfer the drained cauliflower to a food processor.
- Add the cream cheese, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, crushed chicken broth cube, and black pepper.
- Process until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender or a potato masher, but the result may be less smooth.
- Add 3 tablespoons of butter to the hot mashed cauliflower. Mix until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
- Stir in the chopped chives.
- Taste the mashed cauliflower and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt or pepper to fit your preference.
- Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a serving bowl.
- Garnish with additional chopped chives and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish to complement your main course.
Mashed cauliflower with parmesan and chives is a delightful dish that will pleasantly surprise you with its smooth texture and rich flavors. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a creamy side dish with fewer carbs while still indulging in the comforting tastes you love. Serve this alongside your favorite protein or hearty main course for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Mashed cauliflower with parmesan and chives FAQ:
Boil the cauliflower florets for approximately 15 minutes. They should be very tender, which can be checked by piercing them with a fork—if it goes through easily, they're ready.
Yes, leftover mashed cauliflower can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little butter or cream if needed to restore creaminess.
You can substitute cream cheese with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor.
To achieve a smoother texture, use a food processor instead of a potato masher, and ensure you drain the cauliflower thoroughly to reduce moisture. Adding a little additional butter or cream can also help achieve a creamier consistency.
Use fresh, firm cauliflower for the best texture and flavor. Avoid any florets that are brown or have blemishes, as these may affect the overall quality of the dish.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure you steam or boil the cauliflower until it's very tender; this makes it easier to mash and achieves a smoother consistency.
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender or a food processor instead of a hand masher.
- If you prefer a thicker mash, reduce the amount of butter or cream cheese slightly.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, particularly the salt, depending on the saltiness of your chicken broth cubes and parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with extra chives or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
Nutrition Facts
4 ServingsCalories 130kcal
Protein 3.53g
Carbohydrates 4.51g
Fiber 1.35g
Sugar 1.55g
Fat 11g
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