Imagine a side dish so decadent, so luxuriously creamy, that you'll forget you're eating vegetables! This Garlic Parmesan Avocado Cauliflower Mash is not just another boring health food – it's a culinary revelation that transforms humble cauliflower into a restaurant-worthy delicacy. Packed with rich flavors and a velvety texture, this dish will have even the most dedicated potato lovers abandoning their traditional mash for this nutrient-dense, low-carb alternative.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped
- 2 ripe avocados
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the cauliflower head thoroughly and cut into small, uniform florets to ensure even cooking.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the cauliflower's flavor.
- Add the cauliflower florets to the boiling water and cook for approximately 8-10 minutes until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- While the cauliflower is cooking, peel and pit the ripe avocados, placing the flesh into a large mixing bowl.
- Mince the garlic cloves finely, ensuring they are evenly chopped to distribute flavor throughout the dish.
- Drain the cooked cauliflower in a colander and let it steam dry for 2-3 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Transfer the hot cauliflower directly into the bowl with avocados and begin mashing with a potato masher or immersion blender.
- Add minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Continue mashing and mixing until the cauliflower and avocado reach a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese as needed.
- Transfer the mash to a serving dish, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve hot as a side dish or as a creamy, nutritious alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
Tips
- Choose a fresh, firm cauliflower with tight, white florets for the best texture and flavor.
- Don't overcook the cauliflower – aim for tender but not mushy. The 8-10 minute cooking time is crucial for maintaining the right consistency.
- Use ripe avocados that are soft but not brown to ensure a smooth, creamy base.
- For extra smoothness, use an immersion blender instead of a potato masher.
- Let the hot cauliflower hit the avocados directly to help them break down more easily.
- Taste and adjust seasonings gradually – you can always add more, but you can't take away.
- For a lighter version, you can reduce the Parmesan cheese or use a low-fat alternative.
- Fresh garlic is key – avoid pre-minced garlic for the most vibrant flavor.
- If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix.
- Serve immediately for the best temperature and texture, garnishing with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 10mg
