Home Sides Roasted Garlic, Cauliflower, and Parsnip Purée
Smooth roasted garlic, cauliflower, and parsnip purée garnished with olive oil, fresh thyme, and Parmesan cheese on a plate, showcasing a creamy, flavorful side dish.
45 minutes Easy

Roasted Garlic, Cauliflower, and Parsnip Purée

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Looking for a silky, flavorful alternative to mashed potatoes? This Roasted Garlic, Cauliflower, and Parsnip Purée delivers all the comfort and richness you crave—without the extra carbs. By roasting cauliflower, parsnips, and garlic at 425°F (220°C), the vegetables develop a deep caramelized sweetness that enhances their natural flavors. Blended with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil, this purée transforms into an ultra-smooth, indulgent dish packed with depth.

Why This Purée Stands Out

  • Low-Carb & Nutrient-Rich – Cauliflower creates a creamy base while parsnips add subtle sweetness and earthy depth, making this an excellent keto-friendly mashed potato alternative.
  • Bold, Roasted Flavor – Roasting mellows garlic’s bite, transforming it into a nutty, slightly sweet addition that elevates every spoonful.
  • Elevated Yet Easy – This dish feels gourmet but comes together quickly, perfect for both weeknight dinners and upscale gatherings.

How to Make Roasted Garlic, Cauliflower, and Parsnip Purée

  1. Roast to Perfection: Cauliflower florets, sliced parsnips, and whole garlic cloves roast until golden brown and fork-tender.
  2. Blend Until Velvety Smooth: The roasted vegetables purée with heavy cream and Parmesan, creating a rich, silky texture.
  3. Finish with Freshness: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil, fresh thyme, and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan enhances both flavor and presentation.

This versatile purée complements everything from roast chicken and pork tenderloin to pan-seared scallops or grilled steak. It also works beautifully as a creamy base for other roasted vegetables or as a luxurious spread for grain bowls.

Whether you’re seeking a healthier side dish, a holiday dinner upgrade, or a meal-prep-friendly option, this purée delivers both elegance and comfort. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for an easy, ready-to-go side whenever you need it.

Upgrade your vegetable game with this Roasted Garlic, Cauliflower, and Parsnip Purée, a dish that’s as nourishing as it is indulgent. Try it tonight and experience the perfect balance of rich, roasted flavors in a smooth, velvety texture!

Roasted Garlic, Cauliflower, and Parsnip Purée

Recipe by Kyle Taylor
5.0 from 1 vote
Course: SidesCuisine: New AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

35

minutes
Total time

45

minutes

Roasted Garlic, Cauliflower, and Parsnip Purée is a smooth, flavorful side dish made by blending roasted cauliflower, parsnips, and garlic with cream and Parmesan. It’s finished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, fresh thyme, and more Parmesan for added richness.

Ingredients

  • 1 head of cauliflower, chopped

  • 3 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped

  • 1 head of garlic

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for garnish)

  • to taste, salt and ground black pepper

  • for garnish, fresh thyme

  • for garnish, grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

  • Roast the Vegetables:
    Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the top off the garlic head, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and wrap in foil. Toss the cauliflower and parsnips in extra virgin olive oil with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Roast the vegetables for 30 minutes.
  • Purée:
    Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into a blender with the cauliflower and parsnips. Add cream, Parmesan, salt, and ground black pepper. Blend well until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add heavy cream or vegetable broth as you see fit.
  • Garnish and Serve:
    Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with fresh thyme and Parmesan cheese.

SUGGESTED RECIPE: Roasted Cauliflower, Potato, and Kale Stew

If you enjoy the smooth, velvety texture of Roasted Garlic, Cauliflower, and Parsnip Purée, consider taking those flavors a step further with this Roasted Cauliflower, Potato, and Kale Stew. While the purée highlights the creamy, earthy depth of roasted cauliflower and parsnips, this stew transforms those elements into a hearty, comforting meal. The roasted cauliflower brings the same nutty sweetness, but here, it’s complemented by creamy potatoes, tender kale, and warming spices like paprika and cumin. It’s the perfect way to enjoy those rich, roasted flavors in a dish that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying.

A bowl of hearty roasted cauliflower, potato, and kale stew, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, and a drizzle of olive oil.

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