Garlic & Herb Cauliflower Mash
A creamy, velvety mash made from steamed cauliflower blended with roasted garlic and fresh herbs. This lighter alternative to mashed potatoes is silky smooth with a rich, savory flavor that makes a wonderful side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Prep the cauliflower and set up the steamer.
1.Break the cauliflower into evenly sized florets.2.Fill the large pot with 2 cups water and place a steamer basket inside.3.Make sure the water level sits just below the basket so the cauliflower steams, not boils. - steam · ~14 min
Steam the cauliflower with garlic until very tender.
1.Place the cauliflower florets and peeled garlic cloves in the steamer basket.2.Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and bring the water to a boil over high heat.3.Reduce heat to medium and steam for 12–14 minutes, until the cauliflower is fork-tender and the garlic is soft.TIPThe cauliflower should be so tender it practically falls apart when pierced — undercooked florets won't mash smoothly. - saute · ~3 min
Brown the butter for a nutty, rich flavor.
1.While the cauliflower steams, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium-low heat.2.Cook gently for 2–3 minutes, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns light brown and smells nutty.3.Remove from heat immediately once it reaches golden brown so it doesn't burn.TIPWatch the butter closely — it goes from browned to burnt in seconds. - mix · ~2 min
Blend the cauliflower into a smooth mash.
1.Drain the steamed cauliflower and garlic well — any excess water will make the mash soupy.2.Transfer to a food processor along with the browned butter, salt, and black pepper.3.Pulse in short bursts until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.TIPDon't over-process or the cauliflower will turn gummy — pulse just until smooth. - mix · ~1 min
Fold in the fresh herbs.
Stir the chopped cilantro and parsley into the mash by hand. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- serve
Serve warm with an extra pat of butter on top.
Spoon the mash into a serving bowl and make a small well in the center. Add a small knob of butter if desired, and enjoy hot.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the smoothest mash, steam the cauliflower until it is extremely tender and nearly falling apart.
- 2Drain the steamed cauliflower thoroughly in a colander before blending to prevent a watery mash.
- 3Brown the butter over medium-low heat and swirl the pan constantly; remove it from heat as soon as it turns a warm golden color.
- 4Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor in short bursts rather than running it continuously to avoid a gummy texture.
- 5Fold the fresh herbs in by hand at the very end so they stay vibrant and don't turn the mash green.
- 6This mash can be made a day ahead; reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen it.
- 7If you don't have a steamer basket, boil the florets in a little water until tender, then drain very well before mashing.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace the butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil or a vegan butter alternative. Brown the oil slightly with a pinch of smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor.
cheesyCheesy
After blending, stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar until melted. This adds a savory, umami richness that pairs well with the garlic and herbs.
spicySpicy
Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño (seeds removed) to the steamer basket. The subtle heat cuts through the creaminess beautifully.
low oil/butter freeLow-oil/butter-free
Skip the browning step entirely and use 2 tablespoons of unsweetened almond milk or a splash of vegetable broth to achieve creaminess without added fat.
roasted garlic twistRoasted garlic twist
For a sweeter, mellower garlic flavor, roast 4 whole garlic cloves in foil at 400°F for 20 minutes until soft, then add them to the blender in place of steamed garlic.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Low in Carbohydrates
Cauliflower is naturally low in carbs and starch, making this mash a great alternative to mashed potatoes for those watching their blood sugar or following a low-carb diet.
Rich in Vitamin C
Cauliflower is an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps the body absorb iron from other foods in your meal.
High in Fiber
Cauliflower provides a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness without excess calories.
Contains Antioxidants
Garlic and fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro are rich in plant compounds that act as antioxidants, helping to reduce oxidative stress in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but it will release more water. Thaw and press out as much liquid as possible in a clean kitchen towel before steaming to avoid a watery mash.
