Lemony Cauliflower

Prep: 10 min Cook: 6 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A vibrant, tangy cauliflower dish featuring lemon and chives, perfect for a light side or vegetarian main, with creamy yogurt and mayonnaise complementing the vegetable.

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Ingredients

  • 1 medium cauliflower (about 2 lb.), broken into flowerets
  • 1/2 cup plain low-fat yogurt
  • 1/4 cup reduced-calorie mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon rind
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon freeze-dried chives

Instructions

  1. Arrange cauliflower in a vegetable steamer over boiling water.
  2. Cover and steam 5 to 6 minutes or until crisp-tender.
  3. Transfer steamed cauliflower to a serving platter.
  4. Keep warm before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider substituting the low-fat yogurt with Greek yogurt. If you want to reduce calories further, you can use a low-fat sour cream instead of mayonnaise. Adding a pinch of garlic powder can enhance the flavor of the dressing. For an extra touch, mix in some finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This dish can also be served warm or chilled.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Lemony Cauliflower as a light side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with vegetarian recipes like Mrs. Jessee'S Sweet Potatoes. For a complete spread, consider including a fresh green salad or a grain dish like quinoa. Garnish with additional chives for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or briefly steam to retain the cauliflower's texture. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality. If chilled, the flavors may develop further, making it a refreshing addition to salads or as a side dish.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lemony Cauliflower contains roughly 146 calories, with 5g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.

146 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.5g 9% DV
Total Fat 3.4g 4% DV
Carbs 24.7g 9% DV
Fiber 1.3g 5% DV
Sugar 10.3g 21% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 94.9mg 4% DV
Potassium 198.2mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 66.5mg 22% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 106.1mcg 12% DV
Vitamin C 20.2mg 22% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 54.7mg 4% DV
Iron 1.7mg 9% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cauliflower and steam it in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and then reheat before serving. The dressing can also be made ahead of time and stored separately. Just mix everything together right before serving to maintain the freshness.

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use plant-based yogurt and mayonnaise to create a vegan version of the dressing. There are many alternatives available that provide a similar taste and texture. Just ensure that the Dijon mustard you choose is also vegan.

What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?

If you don't have Dijon mustard on hand, you can substitute with yellow mustard or whole grain mustard for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, a mix of vinegar and a little bit of honey can provide a similar tangy-sweet balance. Adjust the quantity to taste.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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