Pin It Experience the comforting embrace of Italian-inspired flavors with this Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta. Silky pasta coated in a luscious sauce made from perfectly roasted cauliflower, garlic, and onion, blended with creamy dairy and finished with parmesan and fresh herbs. It’s a simple yet indulgent vegetarian dish ideal for weeknight dinners that feels both nourishing and special.
Pin It This dish elevates humble ingredients through roasting and blending, transforming cauliflower into a sauce that surprises with its silky texture and vibrant taste. The addition of parmesan and fresh herbs adds layers of depth that satisfy both family and guests alike.
Ingredients
- Vegetables
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 6 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 small yellow onion, roughly chopped
- Pasta
- 350 g (12 oz) pasta (such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
- Dairy & Liquids
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) heavy cream
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) whole milk
- 45 g (1/2 cup) grated parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Seasonings & Garnish
- 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. Toss cauliflower florets, garlic cloves, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- 3. Roast for 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until cauliflower is golden and tender.
- 4. Meanwhile, cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 180 ml (3/4 cup) pasta water, then drain pasta.
- 5. Transfer roasted cauliflower, garlic, and onion to a blender or food processor. Add heavy cream, milk, parmesan, and half of the reserved pasta water. Blend until completely smooth. Add more pasta water as needed until sauce is creamy and pourable.
- 6. Return cooked pasta to the pot. Pour the cauliflower sauce over the pasta and toss to coat. Heat gently over low heat for 1–2 minutes, adding extra pasta water for a silkier sauce if desired.
- 7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, topped with extra parmesan, chopped herbs, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if using.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the cauliflower roasts evenly and turns golden, spread the vegetables in a single layer and turn them halfway through cooking. Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding pasta water gradually until it reaches a silky, pourable texture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Make this dish vegan by swapping the cream and milk for unsweetened plant-based alternatives and replacing parmesan with nutritional yeast. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach for extra vegetables. Whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used to suit dietary preferences.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this creamy cauliflower pasta immediately while warm, garnished with extra parmesan, freshly chopped parsley or basil, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a mild kick, and the bright zest of lemon for freshness. Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Pin It This Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta is a testament to how simple ingredients and thoughtful techniques can create a comforting and elegant dish. Its versatility and straightforward process make it a wonderful addition to any home cook’s repertoire.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I achieve the creamy texture for the sauce?
Roast the cauliflower, garlic, and onion until tender and golden, then blend with cream, milk, and parmesan. Adding reserved pasta water gradually helps reach the perfect silky consistency.
- → Can I use different pasta types for this dish?
Yes, varieties like spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work well, ensuring they are cooked al dente for the best texture in the final dish.
- → What herbs complement the cauliflower and garlic flavors?
Fresh parsley or basil add a bright, fresh note that balances the richness of the sauce and enhances the overall flavor.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan-friendly?
Replace cream and milk with unsweetened plant-based alternatives and substitute parmesan with nutritional yeast for a similar savory depth.
- → How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach can be stirred in before serving to increase the vegetable content and add variety to the dish.