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Easy Healthy Cauliflower Mash with Fresh Chives

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This creamy, buttery cauliflower mash is a comforting and healthy alternative to mashed potatoes. Made with simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleasing side dish that proves healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 lbs or 900g), cut into florets
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup milk (whole milk preferred, or 2% or unsweetened almond milk)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh chives, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon sour cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cauliflower: Remove the leaves and tough core from the cauliflower, then cut it into evenly sized florets. Rinse them well and let them drain in a colander.
  2. Steam the cauliflower: Fill a large pot with about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water and bring it to a boil. Place the florets in a steamer basket, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to medium. Steam for 12-15 minutes, or until a fork slides into the thickest part of a floret with no resistance.
  3. Dry the cauliflower: Carefully transfer the steamed florets to a clean kitchen towel or a few layers of paper towels. Let them sit for 2-3 minutes to release excess steam and moisture.
  4. Sauté the garlic: While the cauliflower is cooling, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, just until it starts to turn golden. Remove from heat immediately.
  5. Blend the mash: Transfer the dried cauliflower florets to a food processor. Add the sautéed garlic and butter, the softened cream cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. If using the optional sour cream, add it now. Process for 30-45 seconds, scraping down the sides halfway through, until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
  6. Fold in the chives: Transfer the mash to a serving bowl and gently fold in the chopped chives with a rubber spatula. Reserve a small pinch of chives for garnish. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
  7. Serve immediately: Spoon the mash into bowls, top with a pat of butter (if desired), and sprinkle with the reserved chives. Serve hot.

Notes

For the best texture, make sure your cauliflower is very dry before steaming. If using frozen cauliflower, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible with a clean kitchen towel. Let the cream cheese come to room temperature to prevent lumps. Don’t over-process the mash or it can become gummy. Season in layers for depth of flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower mash, healthy side dish, low-carb, keto, gluten-free, vegetarian, comfort food, easy recipe

Find it online: https://flurpchef.com/easy-healthy-cauliflower-mash-with-fresh-chives/