Are you looking for a delicious and healthy side dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Forget everything you think you know about heavy, buttery mashed potatoes! This recipe delivers all the creamy goodness you crave without relying on butter, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinners or a special occasion meal. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food recipes, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or easy recipes for homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy) – Almond or oat milk work wonderfully!
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream for a richer flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Fresh herbs (chives, parsley, or rosemary) for garnish
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. This helps the potatoes cook evenly and prevents them from becoming discolored.
Boil the Potatoes:
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
Mash and Mix:
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Drain the potatoes well. Return them to the pot and add the milk, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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Using a potato masher or electric mixer (handheld or stand), mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. If using an electric mixer, start on a low speed and gradually increase to avoid splattering.
Season and Serve:
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or a touch of garlic powder if desired.
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Garnish with fresh herbs, if using, before serving. This simple addition elevates the dish visually and adds a fresh, aromatic flavor.
Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes:
- Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for creamy mashed potatoes due to their naturally buttery texture. Russet potatoes can also be used, but they tend to be fluffier.
- Don't over-mash: Over-mashing can result in gummy mashed potatoes. Aim for a smooth but slightly chunky texture.
- Keep it warm: Once mashed, keep the potatoes warm over low heat or in a low oven (around 200°F) until ready to serve. This prevents them from drying out.
Variations:
- Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roast the garlic cloves before mincing them for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
- Spicy Mashed Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Herb Mashed Potatoes: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or dill.
- Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese or parmesan cheese after mashing for a cheesy twist (remember to adjust the salt accordingly).
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on milk and yogurt choices)
- Fat: 5-10g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes is a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals, demonstrating that homemade cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. Enjoy!