Pin Silky pasta tossed in a luscious roasted cauliflower and garlic sauce, finished with parmesan and fresh herbs. This comforting, vegetarian Italian-inspired dish is perfect for weeknights when you crave something hearty yet easy to prepare. The roasting of cauliflower and garlic brings out a deep, caramelized flavor that blends beautifully with the creamy sauce, making every bite a delight.
Pin This pasta dish is ideal for anyone who appreciates simple, home-cooked meals that don’t sacrifice flavor. The combination of roasted vegetables and creamy sauce makes it a standout comfort food that's also satisfying and nourishing.
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
For a perfectly creamy sauce, blend until the mixture is very smooth and adjust the pasta water gradually to achieve your desired consistency. Roasting the vegetables at a high temperature ensures they caramelize for maximum flavor. Be sure to reserve pasta water to help the sauce bind beautifully to the noodles.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan option, substitute cream and milk with unsweetened plant-based alternatives such as oat or almond milk, and replace parmesan with nutritional yeast. You can also add sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach to increase vegetable content. Whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta may be used to suit dietary needs.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this pasta immediately for the best texture and flavor. Garnish with extra parmesan, freshly chopped parsley or basil, a zest of lemon for brightness, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Pair with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Pin This Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Garlic Pasta brings together ease, taste, and nutrition in a single bowl. It’s a versatile recipe that can adapt to your preferences and dietary needs, giving you a satisfying and delicious meal any day of the week.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of pasta works best with the cauliflower sauce?
Long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine pairs well, but penne and other shapes that hold sauce nicely also work perfectly.
- → How can I make the sauce smoother?
Blend the roasted vegetables thoroughly and add reserved pasta water gradually to achieve a creamy, pourable consistency.
- → Can I prepare the cauliflower and garlic in advance?
Yes, roasting ahead of time allows the flavors to develop. Just reheat gently before blending and serving.
- → What can be added for extra vegetables?
Sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach can be stirred in to boost nutrition and texture without overpowering the flavors.
- → How to adapt this dish for a vegan diet?
Use plant-based cream and milk substitutes and replace parmesan with nutritional yeast for a similar depth of flavor.