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In the realm of pasta dishes, few recipes manage to strike the perfect balance between comfort and health as well as Creamy Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Pasta. This delectable dish combines the earthy flavors of roasted garlic and cauliflower, resulting in a creamy sauce that envelops pasta in a luscious embrace. Not only does it serve as an enticing option for vegetarians and vegans alike, but it also caters to those seeking a comforting meal that’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners.

Creamy Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Pasta

Indulge in the comforting goodness of Creamy Roasted Garlic Cauliflower Pasta, a perfect blend of health and flavor. Roasted cauliflower and garlic create a luscious sauce that envelops your favorite pasta. Quick and easy to prepare, it's an ideal choice for busy nights or leisurely weekends. Enjoy the nutritional benefits of cauliflower and garlic while savoring a plant-based dish that satisfies every palate. Elevate your meals with this delicious, creamy delight!

Ingredients
  

1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped into bite-sized florets

1 bulb of garlic, cloves separated and peeled

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

12 oz pasta of your choice (linguine or penne are excellent options)

1 cup vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with coconut cream for a vegan version)

1 teaspoon nutritional yeast (optional, for an enhanced umami flavor)

Juice of 1 fresh lemon

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions
 

Roast the Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, combine the cauliflower florets and peeled garlic cloves. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything until evenly coated, and spread the mixture out in a single layer to ensure even roasting. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and has a beautiful golden brown color, turning everything halfway through the cooking time.

    Cook the Pasta: While the vegetables are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, add in your pasta of choice and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, make sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.

      Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the roasted cauliflower and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth, then use a fork or potato masher to mash the cauliflower and garlic together until you achieve a creamy consistency. Gradually stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and mix well. If desired, add the nutritional yeast for an extra layer of flavor. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

        Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the cauliflower sauce. Toss to coat the pasta thoroughly. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creamy consistency. Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the mixture and stir well. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

          Serve and Garnish: Serve the creamy pasta in bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

            - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, consider topping each bowl with a sprig of parsley and a light sprinkle of lemon zest for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your creamy roasted garlic cauliflower pasta!