21+ Delicious Cauliflower Purée Recipes for Healthy Comfort Food

Cauliflower purée is a versatile and delicious way to enjoy this humble vegetable, transforming it into a silky-smooth side dish that can be paired with virtually anything.

Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to mashed potatoes or seeking to create a flavorful foundation for other dishes, cauliflower purée offers endless possibilities.

With its mild flavor, cauliflower absorbs other ingredients beautifully, allowing you to infuse it with a range of flavors, from creamy and buttery to savory and aromatic.

In this blog post, we’ve curated 21+ cauliflower purée recipes to inspire your next meal.

From classic recipes with butter and cream to more adventurous versions with smoked paprika, garlic, truffle oil, or roasted beets, these recipes offer something for everyone.

Whether you’re following a low-carb, gluten-free, or plant-based diet, you’ll find options that are both nutritious and satisfying.

So, grab your cauliflower, and let’s dive into some creative ways to make this simple veggie shine!

21+ Delicious Cauliflower Purée Recipes for Healthy Comfort Food

Cauliflower purée is the perfect blank canvas to showcase your culinary creativity.

With the 21+ cauliflower purée recipes shared here, you can enjoy a variety of flavors, textures, and combinations to suit every meal and dietary preference.

Whether you’re looking to indulge in a creamy, rich side dish or keep things light with fresh herbs and citrus, the options are endless.

Not only does cauliflower purée offer great taste, but it’s also a healthy and satisfying alternative to more traditional sides.

It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or as a comfort food that won’t derail your nutrition goals.

So next time you’re in the kitchen, experiment with one of these recipes and discover how versatile and delicious cauliflower purée can be!

Creamy Garlic Cauliflower Purée

This silky, garlicky cauliflower purée is a healthier and lighter alternative to mashed potatoes without sacrificing flavor. Roasted garlic adds a rich, aromatic depth, while a touch of butter and cream creates a luxurious texture. Perfect as a side for grilled meats, roast chicken, or even seared scallops, this dish feels indulgent yet nourishing.

Ingredients:

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 4 garlic cloves, peeled
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for lighter option)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for roasting

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets and garlic cloves with olive oil. Spread on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 25–30 minutes, until cauliflower is tender and slightly golden.
4. Transfer cauliflower and garlic to a blender or food processor. Add butter and cream.
5. Blend until smooth, scraping down sides as needed. Add more cream for desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.

This creamy garlic cauliflower purée proves that simplicity can be luxurious. With its velvety texture and bold flavor, it’s a side dish that elevates any dinner plate while keeping things nutritious and light.

Cauliflower Purée with Parmesan and Thyme

This elegant purée combines cauliflower with the savory umami of Parmesan cheese and the herbal notes of fresh thyme. It’s a crowd-pleasing side dish that balances rustic comfort with refined flavor, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and dinner parties.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/4 tsp dried)
• 1/4 cup milk or cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Steam cauliflower until fork-tender, about 10–12 minutes.
2. Place cauliflower in a blender or food processor with Parmesan, thyme, milk, and butter.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of thyme and a bit more cheese if desired.

Infused with the richness of Parmesan and the earthy essence of thyme, this cauliflower purée is both comforting and refined. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, chicken, or pork chops.

Vegan Cauliflower Purée with Coconut Milk and Turmeric

A vibrant twist on the classic, this vegan cauliflower purée gets its golden hue and warm flavor from turmeric, while coconut milk adds creaminess and a subtle exotic flair. It’s dairy-free, gluten-free, and full of anti-inflammatory benefits — the perfect modern comfort food.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1/2 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Pinch of cayenne (optional)

Instructions:

1. Steam cauliflower until very soft, about 10–12 minutes.
2. Add cauliflower, coconut milk, turmeric, and olive oil to a blender or food processor.
3. Blend until silky smooth. Add a splash more coconut milk if needed.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and optional cayenne for a little heat.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.

This golden vegan cauliflower purée is as stunning as it is flavorful. Creamy, vibrant, and spiced just right, it’s a plant-based side dish that brings both nutrition and flair to your table.

Truffle-Infused Cauliflower Purée

This decadent truffle-infused cauliflower purée is a luxurious take on a classic side dish. The subtle nuttiness of cauliflower marries beautifully with the deep, earthy aroma of truffle oil, making this dish ideal for special occasions or gourmet-inspired meals. It’s a sophisticated, yet simple, way to impress your guests or treat yourself.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1/2 cup whole milk or cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1–2 tsp white truffle oil (to taste)
• Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Steam or boil cauliflower until very tender, about 10–12 minutes.
2. Drain and transfer to a blender or food processor.
3. Add milk, butter, and blend until smooth.
4. Stir in truffle oil, season with salt and white pepper.
5. Serve immediately with a drizzle of extra truffle oil if desired.

With its rich, aromatic truffle essence and smooth texture, this cauliflower purée brings restaurant-quality elegance to your table. It’s the perfect pairing for steak, duck, or any main course that calls for a touch of luxury.

Spicy Chipotle Cauliflower Purée

This bold and smoky cauliflower purée gets a spicy kick from chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. It’s a perfect side for grilled meats, tacos, or any dish that benefits from a creamy base with heat and flavor. The smooth texture balances the smoky spice beautifully, offering both comfort and a punch of character.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, chopped
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo (or more for extra spice)
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Steam cauliflower until soft, about 10–12 minutes.
2. In a blender, combine cauliflower, chipotle pepper, yogurt, and butter.
3. Blend until smooth, adding a bit of water or broth if needed.
4. Season to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro if using.

Fiery and flavorful, this chipotle cauliflower purée adds a smoky dimension to any meal. It’s a creative side dish that can spice up your weeknight dinners or serve as a unique taco base.

Lemon-Herb Cauliflower Purée

This light and zesty cauliflower purée is infused with bright lemon and fresh herbs, creating a refreshing contrast to richer entrées. It’s an excellent alternative to heavier starches and brings a burst of freshness to your plate — ideal for spring and summer meals or as a palate cleanser during multi-course dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, broken into florets
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley or chives, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Steam cauliflower until fork-tender, about 10–12 minutes.
2. Add cauliflower, lemon juice, zest, olive oil, and herbs to a blender.
3. Blend until creamy. Adjust consistency with a splash of water or broth if needed.
4. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with additional herbs.

This lemon-herb cauliflower purée is light, bright, and bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect side for grilled fish, roasted vegetables, or any dish that benefits from a citrusy lift and herby freshness.

Cauliflower Purée with Roasted Red Peppers

This cauliflower purée is elevated with the sweet and smoky flavor of roasted red peppers, making it a colorful and flavorful side dish. The roasted peppers add depth and a subtle sweetness that complements the mildness of the cauliflower, resulting in a smooth, velvety texture perfect for pairing with grilled meats, fish, or as a base for a hearty vegetarian meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth (or more for desired consistency)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Steam cauliflower until tender, about 10–12 minutes.
2. While the cauliflower cooks, peel and seed the roasted red peppers.
3. Combine cauliflower, roasted peppers, olive oil, and vegetable broth in a blender or food processor.
4. Blend until smooth, adding more broth for a creamier consistency.
5. Stir in fresh basil, season with salt and pepper, and serve.

The combination of roasted red peppers and cauliflower creates a beautifully creamy purée with a burst of color and flavor. It’s a perfect addition to a Mediterranean-inspired meal or as a vibrant alternative to mashed potatoes.

Cauliflower Purée with Lemon Garlic Butter

This cauliflower purée is infused with the deliciousness of lemon and garlic butter, transforming a simple dish into something rich and flavorful. The buttery garlic flavor combined with a zing of lemon creates a perfect balance, making this purée a standout side dish for a variety of main courses.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, broken into florets
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Steam cauliflower until soft and tender, about 10–12 minutes.
2. In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Add lemon juice and zest to the garlic butter, stirring to combine.
4. Combine cauliflower and garlic butter mixture in a blender or food processor.
5. Blend until smooth, adding salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm with a garnish of fresh parsley if desired.

With its buttery, garlic-infused richness and a touch of citrus, this cauliflower purée becomes a comforting yet elegant side dish. It pairs wonderfully with chicken, seafood, or any grilled meat for a flavor-packed experience.

Cauliflower Purée with Roasted Carrots and Cumin

This earthy and aromatic cauliflower purée is enriched with the sweetness of roasted carrots and the warm, smoky flavor of cumin. The combination results in a purée that has depth, sweetness, and a subtle spice, making it an ideal accompaniment to both vegetarian and meat dishes, especially those with Middle Eastern or North African influences.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss chopped carrots in 1 tbsp of olive oil and roast on a baking sheet for 25-30 minutes, until tender and caramelized.
3. Steam cauliflower florets until tender, about 10–12 minutes.
4. Combine roasted carrots, cauliflower, cumin, olive oil, and vegetable broth in a blender or food processor.
5. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more broth if necessary.
6. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

The pairing of roasted carrots with cumin and cauliflower brings a rich and aromatic depth to this purée. It’s a flavorful and unique side dish that adds an exciting twist to your table, ideal for pairing with grilled meats, stews, or roasted vegetables.

Cauliflower Purée with Cheddar and Chives

This creamy cauliflower purée is made extra special with sharp cheddar cheese and fresh chives, adding a comforting, savory twist. The richness of the cheddar blends beautifully with the mildness of cauliflower, while the chives lend a burst of freshness. It’s a perfect side dish to pair with a variety of meats or as a hearty base for roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, broken into florets
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup milk or cream
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Steam cauliflower until very tender, about 10–12 minutes.
2. Transfer cauliflower to a blender or food processor. Add butter, milk, and blend until smooth.
3. Stir in grated cheddar cheese and blend until the cheese is melted and incorporated.
4. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in fresh chives.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra chives if desired.

The cheddar adds a comforting, savory richness to the purée, while the chives bring a lovely fresh note. This dish makes a great accompaniment to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a vegetable-heavy main course.

Cauliflower Purée with Roasted Garlic and Parmesan

This classic cauliflower purée is enhanced with roasted garlic and parmesan, creating a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for pairing with a variety of main courses. The roasted garlic adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, while the parmesan provides a savory umami kick. It’s a comforting side dish that elevates any meal with its delicious richness.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 head garlic, roasted
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup milk or cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for about 30 minutes until soft and caramelized.
2. Steam cauliflower until tender, about 10–12 minutes.
3. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and add to the cauliflower.
4. Add butter and milk to the cauliflower and garlic, then blend until smooth.
5. Stir in grated parmesan and blend again. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra parmesan.

Roasted garlic brings a rich sweetness to the cauliflower, while parmesan adds savory depth, making this purée a luxurious side dish. It pairs wonderfully with meats, especially roasted chicken, steak, or grilled fish.

Cauliflower Purée with Coconut Milk and Lime

This tropical-inspired cauliflower purée is infused with the creamy richness of coconut milk and the bright, tangy flavor of lime. It’s a vegan and dairy-free option that still feels indulgent, thanks to the smooth texture and the combination of coconut and lime. This dish is perfect for adding a fresh, exotic touch to any meal, especially seafood or grilled vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, chopped
• 1/2 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
• Zest and juice of 1 lime
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Steam cauliflower until tender, about 10–12 minutes.
2. Combine cauliflower, coconut milk, lime zest, and lime juice in a blender or food processor.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding olive oil to reach your desired texture.
4. Season with salt and pepper, and adjust the lime juice to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

The combination of coconut milk and lime gives this cauliflower purée a unique, fresh flavor with a smooth, creamy texture. It’s an excellent side dish for seafood, chicken, or any meal that benefits from a bright, tropical flair.

Cauliflower Purée with Bacon and Shallots

This rich cauliflower purée is enhanced with the savory crunch of crispy bacon and the sweetness of caramelized shallots. The combination of smoky bacon and delicate shallots adds a depth of flavor that complements the creamy cauliflower, making this dish a comforting and hearty side for any main course. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with steaks, roasts, or even a simple chicken dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 shallots, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on paper towels.
2. In the same skillet, add the sliced shallots and cook on low heat until caramelized, about 10 minutes. Set aside.
3. Steam the cauliflower until soft, about 10–12 minutes.
4. Blend cauliflower, bacon, shallots, butter, and cream until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The crispy bacon and caramelized shallots elevate this cauliflower purée to a new level of flavor, creating a comforting and savory side dish. It pairs perfectly with any roasted or grilled meat, making it a versatile addition to your dinner table.

Cauliflower Purée with Sage and Brown Butter

This elegant cauliflower purée features the rich flavor of brown butter, accented by the earthy aroma of fresh sage. The nutty flavor of the brown butter gives the cauliflower a depth and complexity, while the sage provides a fragrant herbal note. This purée makes an exquisite side dish for fall and winter meals, especially when paired with roasted turkey, pork, or hearty vegetarian options.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, broken into florets
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 6-8 fresh sage leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth or cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh sage leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Steam cauliflower until tender, about 10–12 minutes.
2. In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped sage and cook until the butter turns golden brown and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Combine the cauliflower and brown butter mixture in a blender, adding vegetable broth or cream as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Garnish with fresh sage leaves before serving.

The rich brown butter and sage give this cauliflower purée a warm, aromatic flavor, making it a perfect side for cozy fall and winter dishes. Its savory depth pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or hearty vegetarian options.

Cauliflower Purée with Butternut Squash and Nutmeg

This sweet and savory cauliflower purée blends the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the delicate spice of nutmeg. The smooth texture of cauliflower is complemented by the earthy sweetness of squash, while the nutmeg adds a warming spice that brings everything together. This purée is perfect for autumn or winter meals and makes an excellent side for poultry, pork, or vegetarian entrees.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, chopped
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes, until tender.
2. Steam the cauliflower until soft, about 10–12 minutes.
3. Combine cauliflower and roasted squash in a blender or food processor, adding nutmeg and cream (or broth). Blend until smooth.
4. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Serve warm, optionally garnished with a pinch of nutmeg.

The sweet and savory balance of butternut squash and cauliflower, along with the warmth of nutmeg, makes this purée a comforting addition to your holiday or fall meals. It’s a versatile side that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, poultry, or hearty vegetarian dishes.

Cauliflower Purée with Truffle Oil and Parmesan

This luxurious cauliflower purée is elevated with the rich, earthy flavor of truffle oil and the sharp, umami-packed taste of Parmesan cheese. The creamy texture of cauliflower acts as the perfect base for these premium ingredients, making this dish an elegant side that pairs beautifully with gourmet meals like steak, roasted lamb, or seafood.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
• 2 tbsp truffle oil (white or black)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Steam cauliflower until tender, about 10–12 minutes.
2. Transfer the cauliflower to a blender or food processor. Add cream, butter, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
3. Blend until smooth, adding more cream or milk if needed for a creamier consistency.
4. Drizzle in truffle oil and stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with the remaining Parmesan cheese before serving.

The addition of truffle oil and Parmesan turns this cauliflower purée into a decadent, gourmet side dish. Its rich, earthy flavors make it an ideal pairing for luxurious main courses or special occasion meals.

Cauliflower Purée with Pesto and Pine Nuts

This cauliflower purée is enhanced with the vibrant flavor of basil pesto and topped with crunchy toasted pine nuts. The freshness of the pesto combined with the smoothness of the cauliflower creates a beautifully balanced dish that works well with pasta, grilled meats, or even as a hearty vegetarian entrée.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, chopped
• 1/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp pine nuts, toasted
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Steam cauliflower until tender, about 10–12 minutes.
2. Transfer cauliflower to a blender and add pesto and cream (or broth). Blend until smooth.
3. Drizzle olive oil into the blender and blend again for extra creaminess.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve topped with toasted pine nuts for added crunch and flavor.

The freshness of pesto and the crunch of pine nuts give this cauliflower purée a vibrant and textured twist. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light vegetarian meal when paired with a salad or grain.

Cauliflower Purée with Roasted Beets and Balsamic Glaze

This unique cauliflower purée pairs the earthiness of roasted beets with the creamy texture of cauliflower, creating a rich, colorful dish. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a tangy sweetness that balances the earthiness of the beets. This dish makes for a stunning, nutrient-packed side that’s perfect for festive meals or as a standalone vegetarian dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, chopped
• 2 medium beets, roasted and peeled
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth or cream
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-60 minutes, until tender. Peel the beets once cooled.
2. Steam cauliflower until soft, about 10–12 minutes.
3. In a blender, combine cauliflower, roasted beets, olive oil, and vegetable broth (or cream).
4. Blend until smooth, adding more broth if needed for creaminess.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the purée just before serving.

The vibrant colors of the beets and the tangy balsamic glaze bring a refreshing and visually stunning twist to traditional cauliflower purée. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, or can be served as a flavorful vegetarian main course.

Cauliflower Purée with Lemon and Dill

This bright and refreshing cauliflower purée is enhanced with the zesty tang of lemon and the fresh, herbaceous flavor of dill. The light citrus notes and the fragrant dill bring a fresh twist to the traditional cauliflower purée, making it the perfect side for grilled fish, chicken, or as a part of a light Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Steam cauliflower until tender, about 10–12 minutes.
2. Transfer cauliflower to a blender or food processor, add cream (or broth), and blend until smooth.
3. Stir in butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest, then blend again to incorporate.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir in chopped fresh dill and serve immediately.

The lemon and dill bring a refreshing brightness to this cauliflower purée, making it the ideal side dish for lighter fare like seafood or grilled chicken. Its fresh flavor and creamy texture will elevate any meal with a Mediterranean flair.

Cauliflower Purée with Caramelized Onions and Thyme

This cauliflower purée is made extra savory with the addition of sweet caramelized onions and fragrant thyme. The natural sweetness of the onions perfectly balances the mild cauliflower, while the thyme adds an aromatic, earthy note. This dish makes for a comforting and savory side that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, lamb, or even a hearty vegetarian main.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they caramelize and turn golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
2. Steam cauliflower until tender, about 10–12 minutes.
3. Transfer cauliflower to a blender or food processor and add the caramelized onions, thyme, and cream.
4. Blend until smooth, adding more cream or milk if needed.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve warm, optionally garnished with a few extra thyme leaves.

The combination of sweet caramelized onions and aromatic thyme brings a depth of flavor to the cauliflower purée, making it a rich and savory side. It pairs beautifully with meats like roasted pork, lamb, or even a hearty vegetarian dish like a mushroom risotto.

Cauliflower Purée with Smoked Paprika and Garlic

This cauliflower purée gets a smoky, slightly spicy kick from smoked paprika and garlic. The earthy flavor of paprika combined with the roasted garlic creates a bold and flavorful purée that works beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or even as a base for roasted vegetables. It’s an excellent option when you want a purée that has a little more character.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the garlic cloves on a baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes until soft and fragrant.
2. Steam cauliflower until tender, about 10–12 minutes.
3. In a blender, combine cauliflower, roasted garlic, smoked paprika, and cream. Blend until smooth.
4. Drizzle in olive oil and blend again to add richness and creaminess.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

The smoky depth of the paprika and the rich flavor of roasted garlic make this cauliflower purée a standout side dish. Its bold, savory flavor pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as an accompaniment to a light salad or seafood dish.