Smashed Cheesy Cauliflower

i've been on all high on my "we're getting healthy around here" horse. which i realized, has two interpretations at the clay casa.

my idea=lets try to be healthy 24/5.

justin's idea=i had fish for lunch, so mcdonald's for dinner.

hey, it's all about balance right?!

so when the hubs asked what was for dinner last night, i had a wonderful teriyaki pork tenderloin ready for his grill skill {compliments of hormel}, along with roasted root vegetables & smashed cheesy cauliflower on tap. i've mentioned before how cauliflower is all on the scene lately, so i decided to try, what i've been told, is a great substitute for grits or mashed potatoes.

and it was damn good. like so good. like i could eat it every night & i'd be even more on track to achieving that kate moss figure come summer.

{smashed cheesy cauliflower}

ingredients {in order of use}

*serves 2-4

• 1 1/4 cup chicken stock
• 1 large head of cauliflower, florets finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup 2% milk
• salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 cup low-fat sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• optional: green onions or chives

1. in a medium pot, bring chicken stock to a boil. add cauliflower & reduce to medium-high heat. allow to cook for 8-10 minutes, or until tender.

2. pour the cauliflower & chicken stock into a blender & pulse for 2 seconds.

{1 mississippi, 2 mississippi}

*this will give you a half blended-half chunky texture. you can blend more if you want a more creamy texture, but i like a little chunki-ness in this recipe.

3. add cauliflower-mixture back to pot & bring to a medium-low heat. add minced garlic, milk & salt & pepper. stir to mix. toss in cheese & stir until melted.

4. serve warm, topped with green onions or chives!