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Mashed Confetti Cauliflower

For a low-carb and dairy-free alternative to the more traditional mashed potatoes, try swapping your favorite spuds with cauliflower! Colorful bits of caramelized veggies lend added natural sweetness and an infusion of chopped fresh herbs lend a pleasant “note” which will be especially appealing to those with picky palettes. From stove to table in less than 30 minutes, makes this healthy cauliflower mash another great “MPM Side Dish in a Flash!”

Yield: 3 to 4 servings
Author: Linda Shapiro, © Meal Planning Maven

Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 large carrot chopped
  • 1 small orange bell pepper seeded and chopped
  • 1 small yellow bell pepper seeded and chopped
  • 1 small red bell pepper seeded and chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 large head cauliflower leaves and stems removed
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves optional
  • 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or as desired
  • Freshly ground pepper or cayenne as desired

Garnish (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh Italian parsley

Instructions

  • In a large sauté pan, heat oil over medium-high setting. Sauté onions, carrots, peppers and garlic for about 8 minutes or until softened and light caramelized. Set aside.
  • With a sharp knife, cut cauliflower into chunks. Steam for about 8 minutes or until VERY TENDER when pierced with a fork. (If you prefer to boil the cauliflower, make sure you drain well.)
  • Transfer cauliflower to a large bowl.
  • Using a potato masher or large fork, mash cauliflower with reserved sautéed vegetables, broth, herbs, salt and pepper. NOTE: texture will be smooth-chunky. If a creamier consistency is desired, puree mixture in a blender, food processor or use an immersion blender.
  • Taste; adjust seasonings as desired. Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with thyme leaves and chopped parsley. (optional)

Notes

Make Ahead and Storage Tips: this dish may be prepared up to 2 days ahead; cover and refrigerate. Reheat in a medium pot over medium-low heat for 5 minutes or until hot. Stir constantly to prevent sticking. (If sticking, stir in a tablespoon of chicken or vegetable broth while reheating.)
Chunky or Smooth? Both are equally delicious! Mashing the cauliflower by hand will produce a smooth-chunky texture. However, if you prefer yours very smooth, then process using on and off turns in a food processor, blender or use an immersion blender until desired consistency is reached. (add a bit more broth if needed)
If you have cauliflower naysayers in your house: make sure not to skip caramelizing the onions, carrots and peppers as they provide a huge dose of sweetness. This trick works well with just about any vegetable and is a great way to get your picky veggie eaters to experience new flavors and textures.
Other fantastic MPM Side Dishes in a Flash: Whole Wheat Veggie Orzo, Quickie Asian Veggie Stir-Fry and Balsamic-Glazed Brussels Sprouts.