Cauliflower Mash Garlic Lemon

Featured in: Everyday Easy Dishes

This smooth cauliflower mash offers a light alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, enhanced by the sweet depth of roasted garlic and the fresh citrusy zing of lemon zest and juice. Blended with butter and milk for creaminess and finished with chopped chives and parsley, it delivers a comforting yet bright side dish. Suitable for vegetarian and gluten-free preferences, this easy-to-prepare dish takes just over half an hour from start to finish.

Updated on Mon, 17 Nov 2025 15:44:00 GMT
Vibrant image: Creamy cauliflower mash with garlic and lemon, perfect for a cozy, healthy side. Pin It
Vibrant image: Creamy cauliflower mash with garlic and lemon, perfect for a cozy, healthy side. | fordish.com

A light and creamy alternative to mashed potatoes, this cauliflower mash is infused with roasted garlic and fresh lemon-herb flavors for a bright, comforting side dish.

I first tried this recipe when seeking a low-carb alternative for our family dinners. Its vibrant flavor and creamy texture made it an instant favorite, especially during holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

  • Cauliflower: 1 large head (about 1.2 kg), cut into florets
  • Garlic cloves: 4, peeled
  • Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons (or olive oil for vegan option)
  • Milk or unsweetened plant milk: 60 ml (1/4 cup)
  • Lemon zest: Zest of 1 lemon
  • Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon fresh
  • Fresh chives: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
  • Fresh parsley: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, plus more to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon

Instructions

Cook cauliflower and garlic:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and garlic cloves. Cook for 12–15 minutes, until the cauliflower is very tender.
Drain and steam:
Drain well and let the cauliflower sit in the colander for 2–3 minutes to steam off excess moisture.
Mash ingredients:
Transfer cauliflower and garlic to a food processor or large bowl. Add butter, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Blend until creamy:
Blend or mash until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down sides as needed.
Finish with herbs:
Stir in chives and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
Serve:
Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Steaming bowl of delicious cauliflower mash; garlicky, herby flavors perfect for a dinner. Pin It
Steaming bowl of delicious cauliflower mash; garlicky, herby flavors perfect for a dinner. | fordish.com

This mash has become a staple at our Sunday dinners. Even the kids ask for seconds, and we all enjoy customizing our bowls with extra lemon or fresh parsley.

Required Tools

Large pot, colander, food processor or potato masher, knife and cutting board are essential for preparing this side with ease.

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (butter, milk); substitute plant-based alternatives for dairy-free option. Always double-check labels for milk or butter if allergies are severe.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 110, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 12 g, Protein: 3 g

Close-up shot shows a fluffy, seasoned cauliflower mash topped with fresh herbs ready to eat. Pin It
Close-up shot shows a fluffy, seasoned cauliflower mash topped with fresh herbs ready to eat. | fordish.com

Enjoy this light yet satisfying cauliflower mash as a nutritious side for any meal. The leftovers reheat beautifully for quick lunches.

Cauliflower Mash Garlic Lemon

Creamy cauliflower mash with roasted garlic and fresh lemon-herb for a bright, flavorful side dish.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Time to Cook
20 minutes
Overall Time
35 minutes
Recipe by Fordish Mia Harper


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Modern American

Result 4 Portion Size

Dietary Details Vegetarian Option, Gluten-Free, Low Carb Option

Ingredient List

Vegetables

01 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets (about 42 oz)
02 4 garlic cloves, peeled

Dairy

01 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (substitute olive oil for vegan option)
02 1/4 cup milk or unsweetened plant milk

Herbs & Flavorings

01 Zest of 1 lemon
02 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
03 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
04 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
05 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
06 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Step 01

Boil Cauliflower and Garlic: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and garlic cloves and cook for 12 to 15 minutes until very tender.

Step 02

Drain and Steam: Drain thoroughly and let the cauliflower sit in the colander for 2 to 3 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.

Step 03

Combine Ingredients: Transfer cauliflower and garlic to a food processor or large bowl. Add butter, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Step 04

Blend until Smooth: Process or mash the mixture until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.

Step 05

Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Stir in chives and parsley. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice to taste.

Step 06

Serve Warm: Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs and an optional drizzle of olive oil.

Tools Needed

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Food processor, blender, or potato masher
  • Knife and cutting board

Allergy Details

Review each ingredient for allergens. Ask your doctor if you’re unsure.
  • Contains dairy; plant-based substitutes recommended for dairy allergies.

Nutrition Details (each serving)

Values provided for reference. Consult your medical provider with questions.
  • Energy Value: 110
  • Lipids: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Proteins: 3 g