Oven-baked potatoes with tomatoes

Delicious Baked Potatoes with Tomatoes Recipe - A Pizza-Inspired Snack

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

Who doesn’t love potatoes? They are a versatile and flavorful ingredient, and when combined with tomatoes, cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil, the result is simply outstanding. This baked potato with tomatoes recipe will make you feel like you’re enjoying a delicious pizza, but with a unique texture and flavor. Whether it’s a family dinner or a snack for friends, this dish will surely be appreciated.

Brief history

Baked potatoes with tomatoes have become popular due to their versatility. This recipe combines Mediterranean cooking tradition with the comfort of staple foods. It’s a wonderful way to transform simple ingredients into something special, bringing together the fresh flavors of tomatoes and cheese, with the creamy texture of potatoes.

Ingredients

- 800 g potatoes (choose new or red potatoes for better texture)
- 100 g mozzarella (or preferred cheese)
- 150 g ham (can be replaced with bacon, chicken, or vegetables)
- 300 g tomato sauce (preferably homemade, but store-bought is fine)
- 4 tablespoons grated parmesan
- 1 clove of garlic (for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon capers (optional, for a stronger taste)
- Oregano (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (for seasoning)
- Olive oil (for cooking)
- Butter (for a richer taste)

Preparation instructions

Step 1: Preparing the potatoes

Start by peeling the potatoes and boiling them in salted water. Make sure to boil them just until they become slightly soft, but not fully, so they can be cut more easily. A good way to check is to use a fork - if it goes in easily but the potato is still firm, it’s ready. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.

Step 2: Preparing the tomato sauce

In a pan, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the crushed garlic clove for 1-2 minutes until golden. Add the tomato sauce and let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes. Then cook it with oregano and capers, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors of the sauce, turning it into a delicious base for your potatoes.

Step 3: Assembling the dish

Preheat the oven to 170°C. In a heatproof dish, place 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce on the bottom. Layer a uniform layer of sliced potatoes, followed by a layer of tomato slices. Then add the cubes or strips of ham, followed by a generous layer of mozzarella or chosen cheese. Continue layering (sauce, potatoes, tomatoes, ham, cheese) until you run out of ingredients, making sure to finish with a layer of potatoes.

Step 4: Finishing and baking

For a delicious finish, melt the butter and mix it with a little olive oil. Brush this mixture over the dish and generously sprinkle the grated parmesan. This will create a golden and crispy crust that will delight your taste buds. Now it’s time to place the dish in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes (or 15-20 minutes, depending on your oven). You’ll know it’s done when the cheese melts and turns golden.

Serving suggestions

This dish can be served as is, but for an even more enjoyable experience, alongside a fresh salad or a portion of sautéed vegetables will do wonders. Additionally, a bottle of white wine or a light cocktail could perfectly complement the meal.

Vegetarian option

If you prefer a meat-free version, you can replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or seasonal vegetables like zucchini or eggplant. These not only add flavor but also an interesting texture, making the dish an excellent choice for vegans.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes are an excellent choice, offering a sweet note and a different texture. Be careful to adjust the baking time as they cook a little faster.

2. How can I store leftovers?
They can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat in the oven to restore the crispy texture.

3. Can I add other spices?
Of course! You can experiment with herbs like basil, thyme, or even chili for a spicy taste.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe offers a balanced mix of carbohydrates from potatoes, proteins from ham and cheese, and antioxidants from tomatoes. Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, while the tomato sauce brings lycopene, a beneficial antioxidant for heart health.

Conclusion

Baked potatoes with tomatoes are a perfect choice for any occasion. The versatility and taste of this dish make it ideal to be adapted to your preferences. All you have to do is try this delicious recipe and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!