For many, cauliflower is that fibrous vegetable that sort of looks like broccoli. If only they knew–it can be so much more than that!

Here are two recipes that use cauliflower as a creative replacement for starchy favorites: mashed potatoes and rice.

Mashed Cauliflower “Potatoes” with Creamy Goat Cheese

Ingredients:

1 lb cooked cauliflower

2 ounces creamy goat cheese

2 T milk

1 ounce grated parmesan

Instructions:

In a large bowl, mash the cooked cauliflower while still warm, using a fork or a mashing tool. Add goat and parmesan cheeses, mix well. Add milk slowly until the mixture becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper.

Cauliflower “Rice”

Ingredients:

2 heads raw cauliflower

1 T olive oil

1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

Cut cauliflower into large chunks. Place chunks into blender or food processor, and pulse until the cauliflower reaches a grain-like consistency. 

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Pour “rice” into pot and stir, adding chicken broth gradually. Once cauliflower is tender, serve with entree for a delicious and healthy meal.