Deceptively Delicious Macaroni & Cheese

ingredients:
1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
nonstick cooking spray
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/2 cup nonfat (skim) milk
1/2 cup cauliflower puree **see below how to make puree**
1 1/2 cups shredded reduced fat cheddar cheese (about 8 ounces)
4 ounces reduced fat or nonfat cream cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Directions:
1. Bring large pot of salted water to a boil, add macaroni, and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain in a colander.
2. While the macaroni is cooking, coat a large saucepan w/cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Add the oil, then the flour, and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture resembles a thick paste but has not browned, 1-2 minutes.
3. Add the milk and cook, stirring every now and then, until the mixture begins to thicken, 3-4 minutes. Add the vegetable puree, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and seasonings, and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Stir in the macaroni and serve warm.

Making cauliflower pureee:
Prep: cut off florets and discard core
Cook: steam 8-10 minutes
puree: in a food processor or blender for about 2 minutes, with a few teaspoons of water if needed for a smooth, creamy texture