Parmesan-Garlic Smashed Potatoes
Parmesan-Garlic Smashed Potatoes Recipe from Italy
Introduction
Parmesan-Garlic Smashed Potatoes is a delicious and flavorful side dish that is perfect for any meal. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes with the sharpness of parmesan cheese and the savory taste of garlic creates a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
History
The origins of Parmesan-Garlic Smashed Potatoes are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in Italy, where parmesan cheese is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The addition of garlic to mashed potatoes is a common practice in many cuisines around the world, as garlic adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb (680 g) all-purpose potatoes, scrubbed and quartered
- 3 tbsp water
- 3 large cloves garlic, crushed (or as many as you can stand)
- 0.33 cup low-fat milk
- 3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
- 0.75 tsp salt
How to prepare
- In a microwave-safe container with a capacity of 2 qt (1.89 liter), combine potatoes, water, and garlic.
- Cover the container and microwave on high for 12 to 14 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Mash the potatoes until they are smooth.
- Add milk, cheese, and salt, and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy (if the mixture becomes too thick, add more milk 1 tbsp at a time).
Variations
- Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or thyme for added flavor.
- Substitute the parmesan cheese with cheddar or mozzarella for a different taste.
- Mix in cooked bacon or crispy pancetta for a smoky flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use a microwave-safe container when cooking the potatoes in the microwave.
- Make sure to mash the potatoes until they are smooth to achieve the desired creamy texture.
- Adjust the amount of milk to achieve the desired consistency of the mashed potatoes.
- For a more intense garlic flavor, you can add more crushed garlic to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Parmesan-Garlic Smashed Potatoes as a side dish with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a hearty salad.
Cooking Techniques
Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the potatoes until they are smooth.
- Beat the mashed potatoes with a hand mixer or a stand mixer to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use russet potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes instead of all-purpose potatoes.
- Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for low-fat milk for a dairy-free option.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the mashed potatoes ahead of time and reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the Parmesan-Garlic Smashed Potatoes with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve Parmesan-Garlic Smashed Potatoes with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir for a perfect pairing.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat the mashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
180
Carbohydrates
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
Fats
- Total Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
Proteins
- Protein: 5g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin C: 20% DV
- Vitamin B6: 15% DV
- Potassium: 15% DV
- Calcium: 10% DV
Alergens
Contains milk and cheese
Summary
Parmesan-Garlic Smashed Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious side dish option.
Summary
Parmesan-Garlic Smashed Potatoes are a delicious and creamy side dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With the sharpness of parmesan cheese and the savory taste of garlic, these mashed potatoes are sure to be a hit at your next meal.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a sunny afternoon in the bustling city market, where vendors shouted their prices and customers haggled for the best deals. I was browsing the stalls, searching for fresh ingredients to add to my collection of recipes when I stumbled upon a small, weathered cookbook tucked away in a corner.
The cover was faded and frayed, but the title caught my eye: "The Secret Recipes of Nonna Maria." Intrigued, I flipped through the pages and discovered a treasure trove of traditional Italian dishes, each one more tantalizing than the last. And there it was, nestled among the pages like a hidden gem – the recipe for Parmesan-Garlic Smashed Potatoes.
I could hardly contain my excitement as I hurried home to try out the recipe. As I gathered the ingredients – golden potatoes, fragrant garlic, tangy Parmesan cheese – I could almost taste the savory goodness melting in my mouth. The kitchen was filled with the warm aroma of roasting garlic and bubbling cheese as I carefully followed Nonna Maria's instructions, savoring every step of the process.
I boiled the potatoes until they were tender, then smashed them with a fork until they were just the right consistency – not too lumpy, not too smooth. I minced the garlic and sautéed it in butter until it was fragrant and golden, then mixed it in with the potatoes along with a generous handful of Parmesan cheese. The result was a creamy, flavorful dish that was pure comfort food in a bowl.
As I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a family favorite for years to come. The creamy texture of the potatoes, the sharp tang of the Parmesan, the subtle kick of garlic – it was a perfect harmony of flavors that danced on my taste buds and warmed my soul.
I shared the recipe with my family and friends, who all raved about the delicious dish. They couldn't believe that such a simple recipe could pack such a flavorful punch. And so, Parmesan-Garlic Smashed Potatoes became a staple at every family gathering, a dish that brought us together and made us feel closer to our Italian roots.
Over the years, I have made some tweaks and adjustments to the original recipe, adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a splash of cream to make it even more decadent. But the heart of the dish – the creamy potatoes, the sharp Parmesan, the pungent garlic – remains the same, a testament to the enduring power of Nonna Maria's culinary wisdom.
As I sit here now, with a steaming bowl of Parmesan-Garlic Smashed Potatoes in front of me, I am filled with gratitude for the serendipitous moment that led me to that tattered cookbook all those years ago. It is a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring, a reminder of the love and tradition that we pass down through generations.
And so, as I take another bite of those creamy, savory potatoes, I am reminded once again of the simple pleasures that make life so sweet. Nonna Maria may be long gone, but her legacy lives on in every delicious mouthful of this beloved recipe. And for that, I am eternally grateful. Grazie, Nonna Maria. Grazie.
Categories
| Cathy's Recipes | Garlic Recipes | Halloween Recipes | Italian Recipes | Low-fat Milk Recipes | Parmesan Cheese Recipes | Potato Recipes |