This creamy baked cauliflower dish paired with delicious mashed potatoes is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for any occasion. The cauliflower is cooked until tender, then baked in a rich, creamy sauce topped with a cheesy garlic mixture. The mashed potatoes are made extra creamy with yogurt and butter, and a hint of dill and cherry tomatoes adds a fresh twist. This dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Preparation Time:
- Total preparation and cooking time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cauliflower
- A few lemon slices
- Salt
- Fresh dill
- 50 grams of butter
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 1 cup of milk
- Pepper
- Nutmeg
- 150 grams of hard cheese (grated)
- 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 600-800 grams of potatoes
- 1/2 cup of yogurt
- 3-4 cherry tomatoes (chopped)
- 30-40 grams of butter
- 1/2 cup of milk
- Additional salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Cut the cauliflower into large pieces.
- Fill a pot with boiling water.
- Add a few lemon slices, some salt, and fresh dill to the boiling water.
- Cook the cauliflower for 3-4 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- Melt 50 grams of butter over low heat.
- Add 3 tablespoons of flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add 1 cup of milk in batches, stirring constantly.
- Allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Season with pepper, salt, and a dash of nutmeg.
- Bake the Cauliflower:
- Place the cooked cauliflower in a baking dish.
- Pour the sauce over the cauliflower.
- Grate 150 grams of hard cheese and mix it with 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise and 2 minced cloves of garlic.
- Spread the cheese mixture over the cauliflower.
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) until golden brown.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and cut 600-800 grams of potatoes.
- Pour boiling water over the potatoes in a pot.
- Add some salt and cook until the potatoes are tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add 1/2 cup of yogurt, 3-4 chopped cherry tomatoes, some fresh dill, and 1 minced clove of garlic.
- Add 30-40 grams of butter and 1/2 cup of milk.
- Mash the potatoes to make a puree.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the baked cauliflower hot, alongside the creamy mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with extra fresh dill and a sprinkle of grated cheese.
- Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the cauliflower is cooked just until tender before baking to avoid it becoming too mushy.
- For a thicker sauce, allow it to cook a bit longer before adding to the cauliflower.
- Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cauliflower is rich in vitamins C and K, and fiber.
- Potatoes provide a good source of potassium and vitamin B6.
- Using yogurt in the mashed potatoes adds probiotics and protein.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter, milk, and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners.
- The creamy sauce and cheesy topping add rich flavors to the cauliflower.
- The mashed potatoes are elevated with yogurt and dill for a fresh, tangy twist.
- It’s easy to make and can be adapted to suit different dietary needs.
Conclusion:
This creamy baked cauliflower with mashed potatoes is a delightful dish that brings together the best of comforting flavors and nutritious ingredients. It’s simple to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Give this recipe a try, and it might just become a new favorite in your home. Bon appétit!