Cauliflower Pasta

Top view of a dark bowl full of pasta with cauliflower.

This simple, Italian-style cauliflower pasta is flavorful and makes a satisfying, economical family meal in less than 30 minutes.

The recipe yields 2 large servings or 4 smaller ones.

Prep Time10

Cook Time20

Total Time30

Course: pasta

Cuisine: Italian, vegetarian

Keyword: pasta with cauliflower

Servings:

Calories: 303kcal

Author: Katia

Ingredients

Pasta

7 oz (200 grams) short pasta shapes (fusilli, penne, rigatoni...)

Cauliflower florets

1 lb (450 grams) Cauliflower, cut into small florets (cut in half the big ones)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
¼ - ½ teaspoon chilli flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ¼ tsp dried thyme)
salt and pepper, to taste
⅓ cup pecorino cheese, grated
lemon juice, to taste

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Meanwhile, cut the cauliflower into several medium-small florets and wash them.
Add the cauliflower florets to the pot and cook until just tender; do not overcook them. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the florets to a bowl. Don't turn the heat off; keep the water boiling, as you will use the same water for the pasta.
Next, add the pasta to the same pot and cook until al dente according to the package directions—reserve ½ cups of pasta cooking water.
Meanwhile, place a skillet over medium heat, add the oil, garlic, and chili flakes, and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant (do not let the garlic burn, or it will be bitter).
Add the cooked cauliflower and ½ cup of pasta water to the skillet. Stir with a spoon and allow to stew over medium heat for another 3 minutes. The cauliflower will break up during this time. Season to taste.
Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the cheese and lemon juice. Toss until well combined. If necessary, adjust the seasoning again before serving.
Transfer to a serving bowl and serve with freshly ground black pepper or chili flakes, a drizzle of olive oil, and more grated cheese if you like. Serve immediately.

Notes

Nutrition facts: The nutrition values are for one serving and are based on an online nutrition calculator. They are estimates only and should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice. Please see my disclosure policies.

Nutrition