Vegan Recipes

Garlic-Infused Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Cauliflower Steaks: A Flavor-Packed, Plant-Based Delight

For a hearty, flavorful, and completely plant-based meal, Garlic-Infused Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Cauliflower Steaks is the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and roasted goodness.

The garlic-infused mashed potatoes are rich, smooth, and comforting, while the roasted cauliflower steaks add a smoky, caramelized element that makes this dish satisfying and nutritious.

It’s a great choice for a dinner that feels indulgent yet is packed with wholesome ingredients.

Why Roasted Cauliflower Steaks?

Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that takes on a whole new level of flavor when roasted.

By slicing it into thick “steaks” and seasoning it with spices, you get a crispy, caramelized exterior and a tender, meaty texture.

Roasted cauliflower steaks are a great low-carb alternative to traditional steak, and they pair wonderfully with the creamy mashed potatoes.

Garlic-Infused Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Garlic takes these mashed potatoes to the next level, infusing them with deep, savory flavor.

Vegan mashed potatoes made with plant-based milk and olive oil or vegan butter are just as creamy and comforting as their traditional counterpart, making this dish a perfect side or main.

Recipe: Garlic-Infused Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Cauliflower Steaks

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Garlic-Infused Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 pounds Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy milk)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)

For the Roasted Cauliflower Steaks:

  • 1 large head of cauliflower, sliced into 1-inch thick “steaks”
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Roast the Cauliflower Steaks:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • Carefully slice the cauliflower head into 1-inch thick steaks. Place the cauliflower steaks on the baking sheet and brush both sides with olive oil.
    • In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the cauliflower steaks.
    • Roast the cauliflower for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the edges are golden and crispy, and the center is tender.
  2. Cook the Garlic-Infused Mashed Potatoes:
    • While the cauliflower is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
    • In a small skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden (be careful not to burn the garlic). Remove from heat.
    • Add the garlic-infused oil and plant-based milk to the drained potatoes. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, adding more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Assemble the Dish:
    • Serve the mashed potatoes on a plate and place a roasted cauliflower steak on top or alongside. Drizzle the cauliflower with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty finish, if desired.
    • Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
  4. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Serve warm and enjoy this delicious, satisfying plant-based meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Calcium: 90mg
  • Iron: 3mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Rich and Flavorful: The garlic-infused mashed potatoes are creamy and packed with savory flavor, while the roasted cauliflower steaks bring a crispy, caramelized element to the dish.
  2. Wholesome and Nutritious: This meal is loaded with vitamins, fiber, and plant-based nutrients from the cauliflower and potatoes, making it both filling and nutritious.
  3. Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. The cauliflower steaks roast beautifully in the oven while you prepare the mashed potatoes, making it a relatively quick and hands-off process.
  4. Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to switch up the seasoning on the cauliflower or add extra herbs to the mashed potatoes to suit your tastes. You can even add a vegan gravy or sauce for extra indulgence.

Final Thoughts

Garlic-Infused Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Cauliflower Steaks is a perfect example of how plant-based meals can be both hearty and full of flavor.

The creamy, garlicky mashed potatoes complement the smoky, crisp cauliflower steaks, making this a satisfying dish that’s great for dinner parties or a cozy night in.

Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a delicious meatless meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Enjoy this meal on its own, or pair it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for an even more balanced plate!