MSG Free Chive Mashed Cauliflower
Creamy, buttery, and flecked with bright green chives, this mashed cauliflower is the kind of comfort food that genuinely surprises people at the table. It's silky smooth thanks to a food processor finish and a warm milk-and-butter blend that gets stirred in while the cauliflower is still hot from the steamer. Every single ingredient here is clean and straightforward — no seasoning packets, no bouillon cubes, no shortcuts that sneak in hidden additives. That matters a lot when you're cooking without monosodium glutamate, because so many savory side dishes rely on processed flavor boosters that are easy to overlook on a label. Here, the flavor comes entirely from real food: sweet steamed cauliflower, good butter, sea salt, and fresh herbs. The chives on top add a mild oniony bite that makes the whole bowl feel finished and a little fancy without any extra effort. It's an easy, crowd-pleasing side that proves you don't need anything artificial to make something genuinely delicious.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 lbs), cut into florets
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup whole milk, warmed
- ½ tsp fine sea salt, plus more to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Fill a large pot with 1–2 inches of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Set a steamer basket inside, add the cauliflower florets in a single layer (work in two batches if needed), cover, and steam until completely tender and a fork slides through the thickest pieces with no resistance, 12–15 minutes.
- 2
While the cauliflower steams, warm the milk and butter together in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the mixture is steaming but not simmering.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!