I'm big on textures when it comes to eating, and I aim to strike a balance with each meal. I want something smooth and creamy alongside something crispy or crunchy (like potato chips in a nice, soft turkey sandwich). That said, it seems necessary to have something mashed with our protein. But meat and potatoes can get boring, and heavy. Mashed cauliflower, however?! It's light, fluffy, unique and ALERT: your kids might eat it (2 out of 3 in my house, at least). Of course, I add a teeeeensy bit of cream (and a good amount of cheese), but it's a healthier alternative to mashed potatoes.
Cheesy Mashed Cauliflower
(Serves 4-6)
2 heads cauliflower, florets removed
1 cup shredded white cheddar
1/4 -1/3 cup heavy cream or milk
Salt and pepper
Fill a large pot with an inch or so of water. Place cauliflower florets in and cover, venting lid slightly to let out steam. Cook over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, until cauliflower is easily pierced with a fork. Turn off heat, drain water and place cauliflower back in pot. Using a handheld blender, puree cauliflower until smooth (if you don't have a handheld blender, place cauliflower in a blender to puree, and then place back in pot). Add cream and cheese and stir until cheese has melted (you may need to turn heat back on to low). Season to taste with salt and pepper.
More creative ways to eat cauliflower:
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