Potatoes alla pizzaiola with mozzarella

Delicious recipe for potatoes in tomato sauce with mozzarella

If you are looking for a simple and tasty recipe that combines the inviting flavors of tomato sauce with the creamy texture of mozzarella cheese, you have come to the right place. These potatoes in tomato sauce with mozzarella are perfect for a quiet family dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal. Moreover, the recipe is easy to make, and the result is simply delicious!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 3 cloves of garlic
- 350 g of tomato paste
- 2 fresh mozzarella (approximately 250 g each)
- 1 large potato (preferably red or yellow type for good texture)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Frozen basil (1-2 tablespoons, chopped)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of peperoncino (optional, for extra spiciness)

The story behind the recipe

Potatoes in tomato sauce with mozzarella is a recipe that has gained popularity due to its simplicity and the pleasure it provides. This combination blends culinary tradition with accessible ingredients, transforming into a beloved dish for many families. Garlic and basil add an extra layer of flavor, while mozzarella melts, creating a delicious crust.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the tomato sauce:
Start by heating the olive oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Add the 3 finely chopped cloves of garlic and sauté them for about 2 minutes until they turn golden, being careful not to burn them. Burnt garlic can spoil the flavor of the sauce, so be attentive.

2. Adding ingredients for the sauce:
Once the garlic is ready, add the tomato paste and mix well. This step is essential for developing the flavors. Add 1 glass of water, the frozen basil, salt, pepper, and peperoncino if you like it a bit spicy. Cover the pan with a lid and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. This will allow the ingredients to blend and develop a rich flavor.

3. Preparing the potatoes:
Meanwhile, peel the potato, wash it well, and cut it into thin, evenly sized slices (about 0.5 cm thick) to ensure even cooking. Sliced potatoes will better absorb the flavors of the sauce.

4. Adding the potatoes to the sauce:
After the sauce has simmered, add the potato slices to the pan. Gently stir to coat them with the sauce. If necessary, you can add a little water or extra tomato paste, but be careful not to make the sauce too thin. Cover again with the lid and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the potatoes become tender but do not break apart.

5. Adding mozzarella:
When the potatoes are almost done, slice the mozzarella and place it on top. Cover again with the lid and let it melt for 5 minutes. The mozzarella will become creamy and add a wonderful texture to the dish.

6. Serving:
Once the cheese has melted beautifully, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the potatoes warm, straight from the pan, to keep the sauce and flavor. You can garnish with a few fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of color and freshness.

Serving suggestions and variations

To make this dish even more interesting, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a splash of color and texture. Another delicious variation is to add some black olives or strawberries for a pleasant contrast.

I recommend serving this dish alongside a fresh salad or crunchy bread that will soak up the delicious sauce. Also, a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional information

One serving of potatoes in tomato sauce with mozzarella contains approximately 350-400 calories, providing a good source of carbohydrates from the potatoes and protein from the mozzarella. Olive oil adds healthy fats, while garlic and basil bring antioxidant benefits.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can try feta cheese or goat cheese to add a different flavor.

2. What other spices can I use?
You can experiment with oregano, thyme, or rosemary to add extra flavor to the sauce.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Potatoes in tomato sauce with mozzarella can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them on the stove or in the oven.

Conclusion

This recipe for potatoes in tomato sauce with mozzarella is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly tasty. The rich flavor of the tomato sauce, combined with the creamy texture of the cheese, will turn every meal into a memorable culinary experience. Try it and enjoy a dish that will surely become a favorite in your family!