Mediterranean style baked potatoes
Mediterranean-style baked potatoes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4
Looking for a baked potato recipe that brings a touch of freshness and flavor to your plate? These Mediterranean-style baked potatoes are the perfect choice! With a delicious combination of ingredients that evoke the sunshine and rich flavors of the Mediterranean region, this quick and easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 900 g potatoes (preferably A or B varieties, which cook evenly)
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for an authentic taste)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (for a fresh touch)
- 8 unpeeled garlic cloves (whole, to release their subtle flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of coarse coarse salt (for intense flavor)
- 400 g cherry tomatoes (or regular tomatoes cut into quarters)
- 150 g green or black olives (pitted for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh if available)
Preparation step by step
1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 200°C. This step is essential for even baking and a crispy texture.
2. Preparing the potatoes: Peel the potatoes (if you prefer, you can leave them peeled for extra nutrients and a rustic look) and cut them into quarters. Make sure the wedges are similar in size so they cook evenly.
3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the sliced potatoes, olive oil, lemon juice, unpeeled garlic, coarse salt, cherry tomatoes and olives. Mix all ingredients well so that the potatoes are evenly coated in the oil and seasoning.
4. Adding the rosemary: Sprinkle the dried rosemary over the potato mixture and stir again. The rosemary adds a distinct flavor and blends perfectly with the other ingredients.
5. Baking: Transfer the potato mixture to a baking tray, making sure it is evenly spread. Bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crisp. It's important to stir occasionally to make sure they bake evenly.
6. Serve: Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They go great with a fresh salad, but also as a garnish with meat or fish.
Useful tips
- Choose the right potatoes: Type A or B potatoes are best for baking as they have a creamy texture. Avoid floury potatoes, which can break down during cooking.
- Flavorful garlic: Leaving the garlic cloves unpeeled gives a more subtle taste. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, cut them in half.
- Variations: You can experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano. Also adding some diced bell peppers or diced courgette can further diversify the recipe.
- Complementary Drinks: This dish pairs well with a dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade.
Nutrition information (per serving)
Calories: 350 kcal
Fat: 20 g
Carbohydrate: 40 g
Protein: 5 g
Fiber: 6 g
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of oil? Yes, you can replace olive oil with avocado or sunflower oil, but olive oil brings an authentic Mediterranean flavor.
- How can I make this recipe vegan? All the ingredients are already vegan, so no changes are necessary.
- Can I prepare the recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can mix the ingredients a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge. However, it is recommended to bake them fresh to get the best texture.
On a personal note: When I make this recipe, I like to add a few slices of fresh lemon to the pan to intensify the citrus flavor. It's a simple detail, but it makes a significant difference in flavor!
Now that you've got all the information you need, it's time to fire up the oven and enjoy these Mediterranean-style baked potatoes that are sure to bring a little sunshine to every meal!
Ingredients: 900 g potatoes cut into quarters, 4 tablespoons oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 8 unpeeled garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon coarse salt, 400 g small tomatoes, 150 g olives, teaspoon rosemary
