Mashed Cauliflower

This recipe is a great alternative to mashed potatoes. You can serve it to people who don't like cauliflower and they won't even realize what they have just eaten. This recipe comes from George Stella, who used to have a show on the Food Network during the whole lo-carb craze. The recipe makes 4 servings.

Mashed Cauliflower

1 medium head cauliflower
1 Tbsp. cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp. minced roasted garlic
1/8 tsp. straight chicken base or bouillon
1/8 tsp. fresh ground pepper
1/2 tsp. fresh chopped chives
3 Tbsp. unsalted butter

Set a stockpot of water to boil over high heat. Clean and cut cauliflower into small pieces. Cook in boiling water for 6 minutes or until well done. Drain well, do not cool, pat very dry with layers of paper towels. In a bowl with an immersion blender, puree hot cauliflower with cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic, chicken base and pepper until smooth. Garnish with chives and serve with pats of butter.