Goat Cheese Mashed Sweet Potatoes

I am always looking for a fresh, new twist on side dishes this time of year. With the plethora of family dinners, fancy meals and potlucks around the holidays, it is nice to mix it up from the old sweet potato casserole standby, low on my list of holiday favorites. Instead, I’ve created a much fluffier and healthier version (holidays and healthy? gasp!). I brought this dish to serve my family on Thanksgiving. It was gobbled up.

Goat Cheese Mashed Sweet Potatoes
4-5 sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into cubes
2 TBSP butter
2 TBSP milk
2 oz goat cheese
1/2 C roasted pepitas

In a large stock pot, fill with water until potatoes are covered. Boil until sweet potatoes are softened, about 15-20 minutes. Strain.

Add milk and butter and mash until smooth.

Crumble goat cheese and gently mix in with a rubber spatula or spoon. Add pepitas and fold in. Top with goat cheese and pepitas before serving.

The salty pepitas add a nice crunch to this smooth dish. These are a great side dish with turkey, pork or a good barbecue meal!