When it comes to cooking, there’s nothing quite like a rich and creamy puree to elevate any dish. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a decadent main course, these smooth and silky purees are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 creamy puree recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From classic comfort foods like mashed potatoes and sweet potatoes, to more exotic flavors like beetroot and goat cheese, there’s something on this list for everyone.
We’ll start with some of the most popular purees, including silky smooth butternut squash, garlic mashed potato, and velvety cauliflower. These comforting recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen, and are perfect for serving alongside a roast chicken or as a side dish at your next family dinner. But we won’t stop there – we’ll also be exploring some more adventurous flavors, like spiced apple and pear, luxurious carrot and ginger, and exotic sweet corn and coconut.
Silky Smooth Butternut Squash Puree
Transform winter squash into a creamy delight with this simple recipe. Perfect as a side dish or base for soups, sauces, and baked goods.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and pulp.
3. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with butter.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the flesh is tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop the cooked squash into a blender or food processor with heavy cream or half-and-half.
6. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding salt, pepper, and any desired spices to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Mashed Potato Puree
This rich and flavorful puree is a perfect side dish for any meal. With the addition of garlic, it’s sure to elevate your dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the minced garlic, milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Velvety Cauliflower Puree
Transform cauliflower into a creamy, comforting side dish with this simple recipe. This velvety puree is perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a dip for your favorite snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Break it into florets.
3. Toss the cauliflower with butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Transfer the roasted cauliflower to a blender or food processor with heavy cream. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
6. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rich and Creamy Sweet Potato Puree
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this indulgent puree that’s perfect as a side dish or topping for pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying the creamy goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
4. Scoop out the flesh and transfer it to a blender or food processor.
5. Add heavy cream, butter, brown sugar, and salt; blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Taste and adjust sweetness or seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes (including baking time)
Light and Fluffy Parsnip Puree
Elevate your side dishes with this simple and delicious recipe for Light and Fluffy Parsnip Puree. This creamy and flavorful puree is perfect for accompanying roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: nutmeg or cumin for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the chopped parsnips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the parsnips in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Remove the parsnips from the oven and let them cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted parsnips, butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
6. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more cream if desired for a lighter consistency.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Luxurious Carrot and Ginger Puree
Elevate your meals with this creamy and aromatic puree, perfect as a side dish or used as a base for soups and sauces. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the spicy warmth of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped carrots, grated ginger, and butter.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender and lightly caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to desired consistency.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Pumpkin Puree
Transform raw pumpkin into a deliciously smooth puree, perfect for soups, baked goods, and sauces. With this simple recipe, you’ll have a flavorful base to add to your favorite fall recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2-3 lbs)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cut the pumpkin in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and stringy pulp.
3. Place the pumpkin halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
4. Roast the pumpkin for 30-40 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. Scoop the cooked pumpkin flesh into a blender or food processor.
7. Add brown sugar, salt, and water to the blender.
8. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
9. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Herbed Pea Puree with Mint
Elevate your meals with this vibrant pea puree infused with the brightness of mint and a hint of herbs. Perfect as a side dish, dip, or spread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh peas (frozen or canned work too)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peas, garlic, mint, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Spiced Apple and Pear Puree
This comforting puree combines the sweetness of apples and pears with warm spices, perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening. Serve it as a side dish or use it as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe apples, peeled and chopped
– 1 ripe pear, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the apples and pear.
2. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon stick, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruits are tender and the mixture is caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
6. If desired, stir in the heavy cream for added richness.
7. Serve warm, or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Beetroot and Goat Cheese Puree
Roasted Beetroot and Goat Cheese Puree: A Sweet and Savory Delight
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted beetroot with the creaminess of goat cheese, creating a unique and flavorful puree perfect for serving as a side dish or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup goat cheese (chèvre), crumbled
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beetroot in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Let the beetroot cool slightly, then peel and chop into small pieces.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted beetroot, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Add the crumbled goat cheese and blend until well combined.
6. Stir in the lemon juice.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Puree
This creamy puree is a delicious way to get your daily dose of spinach, paired with the richness of ricotta cheese. It’s perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for pasta, pizza, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, and butter. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the heavy cream and blend until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the puree to a serving dish and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Savory White Bean Puree
This rich and creamy puree is a versatile base for many dishes, from dips and spreads to sauces and soups. With its nutty flavor and smooth texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Drain and add the soaked cannellini beans, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree until smooth.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using) and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zesty Lemon and Thyme Chickpea Puree
A refreshing and flavorful dip perfect for snacking or as a side dish. The brightness of lemon and the earthiness of thyme bring out the natural sweetness of chickpeas in this easy-to-make puree.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and thyme.
3. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (includes blending time)
Decadent Chocolate Avocado Puree
Decadent Chocolate Avocado Puree: A Rich and Creamy Treat
Looking for a sweet treat that’s both healthy and indulgent? This Decadent Chocolate Avocado Puree is the perfect answer. With the creamy texture of avocados, rich chocolate flavor, and a hint of sweetness, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the cocoa powder, honey or maple syrup (if using), and salt to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the avocado mixture until well combined.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required!
Enjoy your Decadent Chocolate Avocado Puree as a dip for fruit, graham crackers, or pretzels, or use it as a topping for ice cream or pancakes.
Refreshing Mango and Coconut Puree
Rejuvenate your senses with this sweet and creamy puree, perfect as a snack or dessert topping. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of mangoes with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mango, shredded coconut, and coconut milk.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and add honey if desired for extra sweetness.
4. Pour the puree into bowls or glasses.
5. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Rustic Tomato and Basil Puree
This recipe celebrates the simplicity of summer’s bounty by blending fresh tomatoes with fragrant basil, creating a rich and flavorful puree perfect for topping pasta, bruschetta, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss the chopped tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and a pinch of sugar on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes release their juices and start to caramelize.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. Add the fresh basil leaves to the roasted tomatoes and blend until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Earthy Mushroom and Truffle Puree
Elevate your dishes with this rich and earthy puree, infused with the deep flavor of truffles. Perfect as a side dish or used as a sauce for meats, pasta, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the truffle oil and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Banana and Cinnamon Puree
This simple recipe transforms ripe bananas into a deliciously smooth puree, perfect for topping oatmeal, yogurt, or using as a filling. With the warmth of cinnamon, this treat is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the ground cinnamon to the blender and blend until well combined.
3. If desired, add the unsalted butter and blend until smooth.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or cinnamon level as needed.
5. Pour the puree into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Exotic Sweet Corn and Coconut Puree
This creamy puree combines the natural sweetness of corn with the richness of coconut, perfect as a side dish or used as a base for soups and sauces.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sweet corn kernels
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn kernels and shredded coconut.
3. Add unsweetened coconut milk, butter, salt, and any desired spices. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors are melded together and the mixture is heated through.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wholesome Lentil and Turmeric Puree
A nutrient-rich and flavorful puree that’s perfect as a side dish or used as a base for soups, salads, or sauces. This recipe combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the vibrant color and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked lentils, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 creamy puree recipes! From savory to sweet, there’s something for every occasion. Try silky smooth butternut squash puree as a side dish, or use garlic mashed potato puree as a topping for burgers. For a comforting main course, opt for rich and creamy sweet potato puree. And don’t forget the sweet treats – like decadent chocolate avocado puree or refreshing mango and coconut puree. With these versatile purees, you’ll never be stuck for ideas again!
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