Description
Creamy Garlic Cauliflower & Spinach Skillet
Ingredients
1 medium head of cauliflower (cut into florets)
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Cook the cauliflower: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cauliflower florets and sauté for 5-7 minutes until lightly golden and tender.
Make the sauce: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm as a side dish or a light main meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~220 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect result every time. First, ensure your cauliflower florets are uniform in size for even cooking. Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the cauliflower in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a golden-brown sear before stirring. This builds flavor. For the sauce, once you add the garlic, stir constantly for just 60 seconds to prevent burning. When adding the heavy cream and Parmesan, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble slowly for 3-4 minutes; the sauce is ready when it coats the back of a spoon. Finally, add the spinach in two batches, wilting the first before adding the second, to ensure it incorporates evenly without cooling the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile skillet can be the star or a supporting player. Serve it as a luxurious low-carb side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or salmon. To make it a complete vegetarian main, spoon it over a bed of quinoa, farro, or creamy polenta. For a textural contrast, top with extra grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or toasted pine nuts. It also makes a fantastic filling for a hearty omelet or a topping for baked potatoes.
How-to Summary
Sauté cauliflower florets in olive oil until golden and tender. Add minced garlic and cook briefly. Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, then simmer until the sauce thickens. Fold in fresh spinach until wilted. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, but thaw and pat it dry thoroughly to avoid a watery sauce. Sautéing may take slightly longer to evaporate excess moisture.
How can I make this dish dairy-free? Substitute full-fat coconut milk for the heavy cream and use a nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan alternative for the cheese.
Why is my sauce too thin? The sauce may not have simmered long enough. Let it cook a few minutes more to reduce. Alternatively, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan will help thicken it.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? It’s best served fresh. If made ahead, the cauliflower may soften and the sauce can separate upon reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream.
What can I use instead of spinach? Kale (stems removed) or Swiss chard are excellent substitutes. For heartier greens, add them a minute earlier to ensure they become tender.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Crowding the Skillet: Adding too much cauliflower at once steams it instead of sautéing it, preventing browning.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly. Add it after the cauliflower is cooked and stir constantly for just one minute.
- High Heat for the Sauce: Boiling the cream sauce aggressively can cause it to break or curdle. Maintain a gentle simmer.
- Overcooking the Spinach: Add spinach last and stir just until wilted to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Cauliflower & Spinach Skillet is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a deeply satisfying and elegant dish. In under 30 minutes, you achieve a perfect balance of tender vegetables, rich sauce, and vibrant greens. It’s a reliably delicious recipe that fits into busy weeknights yet feels special enough for guests. Mastering the few key techniques outlined here will ensure a creamy, restaurant-quality result every time. Enjoy this versatile and comforting creation.