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Are you ready to elevate your pasta game? Pasta with Creamy Cauliflower is a delicious, comforting dish that packs a punch of flavor and nutrition. With creamy cauliflower sauce that rivals traditional heavy cream sauces, this recipe is a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your pasta cravings. Let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (your choice: penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Serving Size
- Serves: 4
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Cook Time
- 20 minutes
Total Time
- 30 minutes
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Once al dente, reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Toss in the cauliflower florets and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the cauliflower steam until tender, about 10 minutes. Once tender, remove from heat and blend the cauliflower mixture using an immersion blender or a regular blender until smooth and creamy. If you like, add the nutmeg for an extra depth of flavor.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the creamy cauliflower sauce to the pot and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve and Garnish
Plate the pasta and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your Pasta with Creamy Cauliflower hot, straight from the pot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pasta with Creamy Cauliflower is not only a delightful dish but also a great way to enjoy a healthy twist on classic comfort food. The creamy cauliflower sauce is rich and satisfying without the heavy calories of traditional cream sauces. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for a complete meal.
Pro Tip: For an extra kick, try adding some red pepper flakes or sautéed mushrooms to the dish!
With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can create a wholesome, creamy pasta dish that’s sure to impress. So, next time you’re in the mood for pasta, give this Pasta with Creamy Cauliflower recipe a whirl — it’s comfort food made healthy!
