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Creamy Healthy Cauliflower Mash with Chives (Easy Side Dish)

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This creamy, buttery cauliflower mash is a healthy alternative to mashed potatoes, made with simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a guilt-free side dish that’s perfect for weeknights or holiday meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 to 2.5 pounds), cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole milk or 2%)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped, plus more for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: Wash the head of cauliflower and remove the green leaves and the tough core. Cut it into uniform florets, about 1 to 2 inches in size.
  2. Steam the cauliflower: Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place the cauliflower florets in a steamer basket, cover the pot, and steam for 10 to 12 minutes until fork-tender.
  3. Dry the cauliflower: Carefully transfer the steamed cauliflower to a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes to steam off excess moisture. Gently press another towel on top to absorb water.
  4. Combine the ingredients: In the bowl of a food processor, add the dried cauliflower florets, softened butter, cream cheese, milk, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and minced garlic. Season with a generous pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper.
  5. Blend until smooth: Process the mixture for about 30 to 45 seconds, scraping down the sides of the bowl halfway through. The mash should be completely smooth and velvety. If too thick, add another tablespoon of milk; if too thin, add another tablespoon of cream cheese.
  6. Fold in the chives: Transfer the mash to a serving bowl and gently fold in the chopped fresh chives. Reserve a small pinch for garnish.
  7. Taste and adjust: Give it a final taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Serve immediately: Spoon the mash into a warm serving dish, top with reserved chives, and a small pat of butter if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

The drying step is crucial to avoid a watery mash. Use room temperature dairy for smoother blending. For a vegan version, substitute butter with vegan butter, cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese, milk with unsweetened oat milk, and sour cream with coconut cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower mash, healthy side dish, low-carb, keto, gluten-free, vegetarian, creamy cauliflower, chives

Find it online: https://breezybake.com/creamy-healthy-cauliflower-mash-with-chives-easy-side-dish/