Save Experience the comforting delight of Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta, where silky pasta is enveloped in a luscious sauce made from golden roasted cauliflower and garlic. This Italian-inspired vegetarian main dish balances rich parmesan and fresh herbs, creating a perfect weeknight meal that is both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Pin it This pasta dish highlights the natural sweetness and nuttiness of roasted cauliflower and garlic, transformed into a silky smooth sauce that clings perfectly to your choice of pasta. The addition of parmesan and fresh herbs elevates the flavors, making every bite rich and memorable.
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
- Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. Prepare vegetables
- Toss cauliflower florets, garlic cloves, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- 3. Roast
- Roast for 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until cauliflower is golden and tender.
- 4. Cook pasta
- 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. Blend sauce
- 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. Combine
- 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. Serve
- 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
Roasting the cauliflower and garlic until golden enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce. Be sure to flip halfway to ensure even roasting. When blending the sauce, adding reserved pasta water gradually helps achieve the perfect silky texture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, substitute cream and milk with unsweetened plant-based alternatives and replace parmesan with nutritional yeast. You can also add sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach for extra vegetables. Whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta options work well for different dietary needs.
Serviervorschläge
This pasta is wonderful served immediately topped with a sprinkle of extra parmesan, fresh herbs like parsley or basil, a zest of lemon for brightness, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Pair with a crisp green salad or crusty bread for a full meal.
Pin it With its creamy texture and bright flavors, this Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Its ease of preparation and versatility make it a go-to for anyone seeking a comforting, wholesome, and delicious vegetarian meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How does roasting cauliflower affect the flavor?
Roasting caramelizes the cauliflower, enhancing its natural sweetness and adding a slightly nutty depth to the sauce.
- → Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely, spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or similar shapes work well with this creamy cauliflower sauce.
- → What can I substitute for cream and milk?
Plant-based alternatives like cashew cream or oat milk can be used to keep the sauce creamy and smooth.
- → How do fresh herbs enhance the dish?
Fresh parsley or basil add a bright, fragrant finish that balances the richness of the sauce.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, swapping regular pasta for gluten-free varieties maintains texture and flavor without gluten concerns.