Go Back
+ servings
Fettuccine Alfredo

Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo with a Healthy Cauliflower Twist

This lightened-up Fettuccine Alfredo features a creamy cauliflower twist, offering a delicious yet guilt-free indulgence.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 12 ounces Cauliflower florets Provides creaminess and a lighter alternative to heavy cream; try using steamed zucchini for a different flavor profile.
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Adds rich, salty flavor; substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
  • 0.25 cup Extra-virgin olive oil Provides healthy fats and depth of flavor; melted coconut oil can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Enhances overall flavor; consider roasting for a milder taste.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Dijon mustard Adds tang; optional.
  • 3 tablespoons Unsalted butter Contributes to creaminess; swap with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice Brightens the dish; replace with white wine vinegar if necessary.
  • 1 teaspoon Sea salt Essential for flavor; adjust to taste.
  • Freshly ground black pepper Used for seasoning; optional.
For the Pasta
  • 16 ounces Fettuccine pasta The main base; substitute with gluten-free pasta.
  • 1 to 1.5 cups Reserved pasta cooking water Adjusts sauce consistency; vegetable broth can be a handy substitute.

Equipment

  • Blender
  • large pot
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once boiling, add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and transfer to a blender, letting cool slightly.
  2. In the blender with the cauliflower, add Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, mustard, butter, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. In another large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes) until al dente. Reserve 1.5 cups of pasta cooking water, then drain.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the drained fettuccine with the creamy cauliflower sauce. Gradually add the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
  5. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 2 months. Use leftovers in salads or with roasted vegetables.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!