Garlic Mushroom Cauliflower Skillet
A quick and flavorful one-pan vegetarian dish that combines caramelized mushrooms, golden cauliflower florets, and fragrant garlic. It’s a healthy, low-carb, gluten-free favorite that can serve as a hearty side or a plant-based main. Customizable, weeknight-friendly, and bursting with savory depth.
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Knife + cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Lid (optional, for steaming step)
Ingredients
Core:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, thickly sliced
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot or ½ yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter (or plant-based butter for vegan)
Flavor boosters:
- ¼ cup vegetable or chicken broth (or dry white wine)
- ½ tsp salt, to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp fresh or dried thyme (or parsley)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp lemon juice or zest (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast
- ½ cup chickpeas, cooked (for protein boost)
- ½ cup zucchini or bell pepper, chopped
Instructions
Prep ingredients:
- Cut cauliflower into uniform florets and slice mushrooms. Mince garlic and dice shallots/onion.
Sauté aromatics:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shallots/onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
Cook mushrooms:
- Add sliced mushrooms in a single layer. Let them sit undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until browned, then stir and cook for another 3–4 minutes.
Add cauliflower:
- Stir in cauliflower florets. Cook for 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally to let edges brown and caramelize. Add more oil if needed.
Deglaze & steam:
- Pour in broth or wine. Stir to deglaze the pan. Cover loosely and let steam for 2–3 minutes until cauliflower is tender.
Finish with garlic & herbs:
- Uncover, add garlic and herbs. Sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes or lemon.
Serve:
- Garnish with Parmesan, nutritional yeast, or herbs. Serve warm as a side or light main.
Notes
- Vegan-friendly: Use plant-based butter and veggie broth.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet—work in batches for best browning.
- Add garlic at the end to prevent bitterness.
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water.
- Perfect pairings: Serve with grains like quinoa or rice, or alongside grilled proteins for a balanced meal.