Minty Potatoes

Minty Potatoes Recipe - Delicious Vegetarian Dish with New Potatoes, Mint, Olive Oil, and Sea Salt

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Minty Potatoes is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the earthy taste of baby new potatoes with the aromatic essence of fresh mint. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for a light and healthy side dish or a tasty snack.

History

The combination of potatoes and mint has been a popular culinary pairing for centuries. Minty Potatoes likely originated in Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh herbs are commonly used to enhance the flavors of simple dishes. This recipe has been passed down through generations and continues to be a favorite among food enthusiasts worldwide.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) baby new potatoes, yellow-skinned
1 bunch of fresh mint
0.25 cup of extra virgin olive oil
sea salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare

Cut the potatoes in half.
Wrap the mint in a piece of cheesecloth and tie it with a fabric string.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the potatoes and the mint sack.
Boil for approximately 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Drain and remove the mint sack.
Toss the potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and serve.
Alternatively, you can add the mint directly to the boiling water instead of using a cheesecloth bag, but remember to remove it from the cooked potatoes before serving.

Variations

Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the potatoes for a citrusy twist.
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the potatoes before serving for a creamy and tangy flavor.
Substitute fresh dill or parsley for the mint for a different herbaceous taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use baby new potatoes for this recipe, as they have a tender skin and creamy texture that pairs well with the mint.

- Wrapping the mint in a cheesecloth sack helps infuse the potatoes with the herb's flavor without leaving any stray leaves in the dish.

- Boil the potatoes until they are just tender, as overcooking can result in a mushy texture.

- Tossing the potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper while they are still warm helps the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Minty Potatoes can be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. They also make a tasty addition to a summer picnic or barbecue.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have baby new potatoes, you can use regular potatoes cut into small pieces.

- Fresh mint can be substituted with dried mint, but the flavor may not be as vibrant.

Make Ahead Tips

Minty Potatoes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Minty Potatoes with a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color. Serve in a decorative bowl or platter for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Minty Potatoes pair well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and fresh salads. They also complement dishes with Mediterranean flavors, such as hummus and tzatziki.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Minty Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Minty Potatoes contains approximately 180 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Minty Potatoes contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Minty Potatoes contains approximately 7 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Minty Potatoes contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Minty Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free. However, it does contain olive oil, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Minty Potatoes are a nutritious and flavorful side dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. They are a great option for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet.

Summary

Minty Potatoes are a simple and delicious side dish that is perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the fresh flavors of mint and potatoes in this light and refreshing dish.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was enveloped in the delicious aroma of herbs and spices.

Margaret greeted me with a smile and a twinkle in her eye. "I have a new recipe to share with you today, my dear," she said, as she handed me a piece of paper with the words "Minty Potatoes" written on it.

I was intrigued. Minty potatoes? I had never heard of such a dish before. Margaret must have seen the curiosity in my eyes because she chuckled and said, "Trust me, darling, this is a recipe you won't soon forget."

She then proceeded to show me how to make the dish. The ingredients were simple – potatoes, butter, fresh mint, and a dash of salt and pepper. Margaret explained that the key to the dish was to use fresh mint, as it added a refreshing and unique flavor to the potatoes.

As we chopped, boiled, and mashed the potatoes, Margaret shared with me the story of how she came across this recipe. She had been traveling through the countryside of Ireland and stumbled upon a quaint little inn where the chef had prepared this dish for the guests. Margaret was so impressed by the flavors that she begged the chef for the recipe, which he graciously shared with her.

Since then, Margaret had made the dish countless times for her family and friends, and it had become a favorite in her household. She had also made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding her own personal touch to make it even more delicious.

After a few hours of cooking and chatting, the minty potatoes were finally ready. Margaret served them up on a beautiful platter, garnished with a sprig of fresh mint. The first bite was heavenly – the creamy potatoes melted in my mouth, while the hint of mint added a refreshing twist to the dish.

I couldn't believe how simple yet flavorful the dish was. Margaret had truly outdone herself with this recipe, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

Over the years, I have perfected the recipe for minty potatoes, adding my own little twists and variations to make it uniquely mine. Whenever I make the dish, I am reminded of that warm summer day in Margaret's kitchen, where I first fell in love with the flavors of fresh mint and creamy potatoes.

I have shared the recipe with my own family and friends, passing down the tradition of minty potatoes from one generation to the next. It has become a staple in our household, a dish that is always requested for special occasions and family gatherings.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about the day I learned to make minty potatoes, I am filled with gratitude for the wonderful people and experiences that have shaped my love for cooking. Margaret's recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and camaraderie that food can bring to our lives.

And so, I will continue to make minty potatoes for years to come, honoring the memories of that fateful day in Margaret's kitchen and sharing the love and flavors of this delicious dish with those around me. Cooking truly is a gift that keeps on giving, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pass on the tradition of minty potatoes to future generations.