Noble potatoes

Side dish with potatoes, leeks, and spinach: a quick and delicious recipe

If you are looking for a sensational side dish that can also be served as a main course due to its caloric content, you have found the perfect recipe! This recipe combines the rich flavors of bacon with the freshness of vegetables, offering you an explosion of tastes. Inspired by Vladut's recipes, this side dish is not only quick but also extremely versatile.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 4-6 medium potatoes
- 2-3 leeks
- 1-2 bell peppers (red or green, according to preference)
- 100 g bacon (or a vegetarian alternative if desired)
- 100 g spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- Salt, to taste
- Olive oil
- Sweet paprika (or hot, depending on preference)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Necessary utensils

- Wok or deep skillet
- Steamer pot or boiling pot
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spatula

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling the potatoes, leeks, and garlic. The potatoes can be cut into large cubes to cook evenly. The leeks are sliced into rounds, and the garlic is lightly pressed to release its flavors. If using frozen spinach, let it thaw a bit before coarsely chopping it.

Step 2: Cooking the vegetables in the wok
Place the wok over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the pressed garlic and let it brown for about 1 minute. Then, add the sliced leeks and bell pepper. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning the vegetables.

Step 3: Adding the bacon
Cut the bacon into thin strips and add it to the wok. Cook everything over medium-high heat until the bacon becomes crispy and the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. The aroma of the bacon will infuse the vegetables, adding extra flavor to your dish.

Step 4: Preparing the potatoes
Meanwhile, steam the potato cubes for 10 minutes or boil them in salted water until they become soft but not overly mushy. They should be tender enough to mix with the other ingredients.

Step 5: Combining the ingredients
Once the vegetables in the wok are browned, add the boiled or steamed potatoes. Season with salt and add sweet paprika (or hot, according to preference). Mix everything well to integrate the flavors. Add the chopped spinach, stirring until wilted, which will only take a few minutes.

Step 6: Finishing the dish
After mixing all the ingredients well, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to develop and blend better.

Serving suggestions

This side dish can be served alongside grilled meat or enjoyed as a main course with a fresh salad. A glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade pairs perfectly with this dish.

Practical tips

- Ingredient variations: You can replace the bacon with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Adding feta cheese or parmesan on top before serving can add a creamy and delicious note.
- Keeping the vegetables crunchy: If you prefer the vegetables to remain crunchier, add the spinach at the end, after mixing the potatoes.
- Spicy flavor: If you enjoy spicy food, you can add a bit of freshly chopped chili pepper to intensify the flavors.

Nutritional information

This recipe is high in fiber due to the vegetables and potatoes, while the bacon adds a source of protein. Each serving contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the amount of bacon used. Spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other vegetables? Of course! This recipe is very versatile. You can add zucchini, carrots, or broccoli, depending on your preferences.
2. How can I store leftovers? The dish can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in a skillet or microwave.
3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans? If you replace the bacon with a vegetarian option and omit cheese (if used), the recipe becomes vegan.

This side dish with potatoes, leeks, and spinach is not only simple and quick but also extremely satisfying. Whether you serve it as a side dish or as a main course, it is guaranteed to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Try it and enjoy a delicious meal!