Paleo Smoky Paprika Mashed Cauliflower
Creamy, smoky, and deeply satisfying, this mashed cauliflower is the kind of side dish that makes you forget you're eating something wholesome. Steaming the cauliflower until completely tender and then blending it with full-fat coconut milk and olive oil gives it a silky, luxurious texture that rivals any butter-loaded potato mash. The real magic comes from blooming the smoked paprika and garlic together in warm oil before it all goes into the blender — that one extra step builds a depth of flavor that tastes like it took way more effort than it did. A pinch of cayenne adds a gentle kick if you're into it, and a dusting of paprika with fresh chives on top makes the finished bowl look genuinely impressive. This is the kind of recipe that converts skeptics at the dinner table, especially anyone who assumes grain-free eating means bland or boring. It serves four and comes together with minimal cleanup, making it an easy weeknight win or a standout addition to a weekend spread.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 lb), cut into florets
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- ⅓ cup full-fat coconut milk
- ½ tsp salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For serving
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, thinly sliced (optional)
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Fill a large pot with 1 inch of water and set a steamer basket inside. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Add the cauliflower florets to the basket, cover, and steam for 12–14 minutes, until completely tender when pierced with a fork with no resistance.
- 2
While the cauliflower steams, heat 1 tbsp of the olive oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and cook, stirring frequently, for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden at the edges — watch closely, as it can brown quickly. Add the smoked paprika and cayenne, if using, and stir for 30 seconds until the spices are fragrant and evenly coated in the oil. Remove from heat.
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