Pureed or mashed cauliflower is a great substitute for mashed potatoes. Low in carbs and high in nutrients, the “cauli-taste” is very mild. Try it even if you think you won't like. Even my husband asks for it! You can flavor it up in any way you like Adding garlic is a great addition, or Parmesan cheese, or both!
* raw Cauliflower - a medium head makes about a pound of florets * any combination of butter, milk, cream, or whatever you use when you make mashed potatoes - about 1/4 cup * salt and pepper * If you have low carb “instant mashed potatoes”, add up to 1/4 cup for texture (optional, see note) * Options: minced garlic (a clove or two); garlic powder (1/2 to 1 teaspoon); cheese
# Break the cauliflower up into florets, or just chop. I like to cook it in the microwave in a container that I prepare and serve it in, but you can steam it. Cook it until it's tender – a fork should easily pierce it. # The easiest thing to do is to add the rest of the ingredients to the container the cauliflower is cooked in, and then use a stick (hand) blender to put it all together. Or you can put it all in a regular blender or food processor.
Assuming 4 servings from a pound of cauliflower, each will have about 3 grams of usable carbohydrate plus three grams of fiber. The calories will depend on what else you add.
Note: I like to use instant “potatoes” made for low carb diets, such as Dixie Carb Counters Instant Mashers. Other people use a small amount of real potato or instant potatoes to improve the texture. But you don't need any of these things.
source: http://lowcarbdiets.about.com/od/lowcarbsidedishes/r/cauliflowermash.htm
tags: low-carb, vegetarian