v:gourmet

As a rule I used to steam cauliflower and smoother it with cheese sauce, the way my grandmother and mother always used to make it. I tried this recipe the other day and the kids decided they prefer it. Phew! The sauteed shallots are key.

1 head of cauliflower, trimmed and chopped

2 tbsps olive oil

1/4 cup minced shallots

2 garlic cloves, minced or pressed

1/4 tsp ground black pepper

1/2 cup finely chopped scallions

1/4 cup minced fresh parsley

optional: grated parmigiano, asiago, or sharp cheddar cheese

1. Steam the cauliflower until very tender, ,about 7 minutes. Put in a shallow bowl and set aside.

2. Warm the oil in a small skillet on medium-high heat and saute the shallots, garlic, salt and pepper until the shallots have softened. Add to the bowl of cauliflower and mash with a potato masher. Stir in the scallions and parsley. Stir in the grated cheese, if desired.