Description
A creamy, low-carb twist on classic polenta, this dish replaces cornmeal with blended cauliflower, creating a velvety, nutrient-packed base. Topped with garlicky, thyme-infused mushrooms and a touch of balsamic vinegar, this comforting dish is light yet indulgent—perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cauliflower Polenta:
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth (for blending)
For the Mushroom Topping:
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 12 oz mixed mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or portobello), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley or extra parmesan (for garnish)
Substitutions & Add-Ins:
- Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free option.
- Swap butter for olive oil to make it vegan.
- Add a drizzle of truffle oil for extra depth of flavor.
Instructions
-
Steam the Cauliflower:
- In a pot, steam cauliflower florets until fork-tender, about 8-10 minutes.
-
Blend the Polenta:
- Transfer steamed cauliflower to a food processor.
- Add parmesan, butter, salt, pepper, and broth, then blend until smooth and creamy.
-
Sauté the Mushrooms:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms, garlic, and thyme. Cook until mushrooms are golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Add Balsamic Vinegar:
- Stir in balsamic vinegar and cook for 1 more minute until absorbed.
-
Assemble & Serve:
- Spoon the cauliflower polenta onto plates.
- Top with the mushroom mixture.
- Garnish with extra parmesan or fresh parsley.
Notes
- Blend Until Velvety Smooth: The key to perfect texture is thorough blending.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Mushrooms: Give them space to brown properly instead of steaming.
- Season Well: Cauliflower has a mild flavor, so be generous with salt, pepper, and cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (~1.5 cups)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg