Save Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta is a silky, comforting dish that transforms humble ingredients into an Italian-inspired weeknight favorite. Roasting the cauliflower and garlic unlocks a rich, caramelized depth that blends flawlessly into a luscious sauce, elegantly coating your choice of pasta. Finished with parmesan and fresh herbs, this vegetarian meal is both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Save This dish brings warmth and indulgence to your dinner table without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether served to family or friends, the comforting flavors and inviting texture make it a reliable favorite that can be customized by swapping herbs or adding extra vegetables.
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 to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. Toss cauliflower florets, garlic cloves, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- 3. Roast for 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until cauliflower is golden and tender.
- 4. 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. 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. 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. 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 is key to building deep flavor. Be sure to flip the vegetables halfway through to allow even caramelization. Use a good-quality parmesan for the richest taste, and adjust the sauce consistency by adding pasta water gradually until it reaches a silky texture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this recipe vegan, swap the cream and milk with unsweetened plant-based alternatives and use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan. You can also incorporate sautéed mushrooms, peas, or fresh spinach to add more vegetables. For dietary needs, whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta are excellent substitutes.
Serviervorschläge
Serve immediately garnished with extra parmesan cheese, freshly chopped parsley or basil, a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness, and a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat. This pasta pairs well with a crisp green salad or crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce.
Save This Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta is a versatile recipe that delivers hearty satisfaction and elegant flavor with every bite. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal or served to guests, it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.