Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet Recipe

Introduction

This Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that comes together quickly. Sautéed cauliflower and mushrooms are infused with garlic and aromatic spices, making it a perfect low-carb side or light meal packed with nutrition and bold taste.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cauliflower (2-3 pounds), cut into small florets
• 16 ounces fresh mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste (about 1 teaspoon each)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Optional: 1 cup frozen green peas
• Optional: 1/2 cup shredded parmesan or vegan cheese
• Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Clean and chop the cauliflower into uniform small florets, slice the mushrooms evenly, and mince the garlic finely. Dice the onion, carrots, and red bell pepper.
2. Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, allowing it to coat the pan evenly.
3. Step 3: Add the cauliflower florets to the skillet, stirring gently to coat with oil. Cook 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly golden.
4. Step 4: Add the sliced mushrooms and diced onion to the skillet. Stir to combine, then sprinkle in the minced garlic. Cook an additional 3-5 minutes until mushrooms are tender and garlic is fragrant, but not burnt.
5. Step 5: Stir in diced carrots, red bell pepper, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables are cooked through and seasonings are well blended.
6. Step 6: Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the vegetables and stir to combine. If desired, gently fold in frozen peas and cook until heated through.
7. Step 7: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle with shredded parmesan or vegan cheese if using, and garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving warm.

Tips & Variations

• Maintain medium heat to avoid burning the garlic and ensure vegetables stay crisp-tender.
• Use fresh, firm cauliflower and plump mushrooms for the best flavor and texture.
• Experiment by adding other vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for more color and nutrition.
• Swap olive oil for avocado or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
• For a vegan version, omit cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
• Add cooked lentils or chickpeas to make the dish heartier and more filling.
• A splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish just before serving.

Storage

Allow the skillet to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3-5 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2-3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Stir occasionally during reheating to preserve texture and even warmth.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What is a Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet?

It is a simple, flavorful dish of sautéed cauliflower, mushrooms, and garlic cooked together with herbs and spices in a skillet. It serves as a healthy side or light main dish with robust, earthy flavors.

How do you prepare the vegetables for a skillet dish?

Wash and chop the vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking. Cauliflower should be cut into small florets, mushrooms sliced evenly, and garlic finely minced to release its flavor quickly during cooking.

Can I add other ingredients to the Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom dish?

Yes, the dish is highly versatile. You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, incorporate proteins like tofu or chicken, or adjust seasonings to your taste. Many variations suit dietary needs and preferences.

Is the Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet a healthy option?

Absolutely. It features nutrient-dense, low-calorie vegetables rich in fiber and antioxidants. Cooking with minimal oil and fresh herbs keeps it light and nutritious.

What are the cooking times for this dish?

The total cooking time is about 15-20 minutes. Cauliflower cooks about 5-7 minutes, mushrooms and garlic 3-5 minutes, and additional vegetables or seasonings take a few more minutes to blend flavors.

Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the skillet in advance, store it in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat when ready. It also freezes well for meal prep and quick meals later.

Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 135 reviews

This Garlic Cauliflower Mushroom Skillet is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish featuring sautéed cauliflower florets and fresh mushrooms cooked in a fragrant garlic butter sauce. Enhanced with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, and a splash of lemon juice, it’s perfect as a low-carb side or a light vegetarian main. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley garnish complete this simple yet delicious skillet meal that is ready in just 25 minutes.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 1 small head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Fats and Liquids

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Spices and Seasonings

• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional

• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Optional toppings: toasted almonds or pine nuts, red pepper flakes, shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Allow the butter to melt and oil to heat thoroughly to coat the pan evenly.
2. Sauté the Veggies: Add cauliflower florets to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn slightly golden and tender-crisp. Then add the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until mushrooms are soft.
3. Add Garlic & Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
4. Finish & Serve: Remove from heat and drizzle lemon juice over the vegetables. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot as a flavorful side or light main dish.

Notes

• For extra crunch, sprinkle toasted almonds or pine nuts on top before serving.
• If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking garlic and spices.
• For a cheesy variation, stir in shredded mozzarella cheese just before serving to melt slightly.
• This dish is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian; use vegan butter and cheese alternatives to make it vegan.
• Uniformly chop vegetables for even cooking and consistent texture.
• Avoid burning garlic by controlling skillet heat—medium to medium-low is best.
• Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for 2-3 months.

Keywords: Garlic cauliflower skillet, mushroom skillet, sautéed cauliflower and mushrooms, healthy vegetarian side dish, quick skillet recipes, low-carb vegetable skillet