Swedish potatoes

Delicious herb-infused potato side dish

Today, I present to you a recipe that will surely become your favorite when you want to turn an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. These herb-infused potatoes are a wonderful side dish that pairs beautifully with both meat and fish or a fresh green salad.

The history of this recipe is fascinating, as the herbs de Provence are a traditional blend used in the south of France, bringing Mediterranean flavors to life. These herbs are known not only for their exquisite taste but also for their nutritional benefits, being rich in antioxidants and compounds that support digestive health.

Total preparation time: 50-60 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes (or as many as you need)
- 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons of herbs de Provence blend (rosemary, thyme, basil, etc.)
- salt and pepper to taste

Step by step:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). It is essential to have a well-heated oven to achieve a crispy and delicious crust on the outside of the potatoes.

2. Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly. It is important to remove any impurities, especially if you plan to cook them with the skin on. The potato skin not only adds texture but also valuable nutrients.

3. Cut the potatoes into slices, but not all the way through! Make sure to leave a base of about 1-2 cm so that the slices remain intact. This technique not only looks beautiful but also helps absorb the flavors from the herbs.

4. Skillfully sprinkle the herbs de Provence blend over the potatoes, along with salt and pepper. If you desire a more intense flavor, you can add more herbs (or even a splash of crushed garlic).

5. Brush each potato with olive oil using a kitchen brush. The oil will help caramelize the potatoes, giving them a crispy and golden texture.

6. Prepare a piece of aluminum foil and place two potatoes on each piece. Wrap them tightly to keep them moist and help them bake evenly. This technique is ideal for retaining juiciness.

7. Place the potato packets in a baking dish and put it in the oven for 30-40 minutes. Check occasionally, as baking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes.

8. Once the potatoes are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly before unwrapping them from the foil.

Serving:
These herb-infused potato side dishes are excellent alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even a fresh green salad for a light meal. I personally prefer to serve them with a garlic and lemon yogurt sauce, which perfectly complements the flavors.

Practical tips:
- If you want to experiment, you can add other ingredients between the potato slices, such as slices of cheese, tomatoes, or olives.
- Try using potatoes of different colors to add a splash of color and variety to your plate.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This recipe is relatively healthy, with approximately 180 calories per serving, having a high content of fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the potatoes and herbs. The olive oil adds healthy fats that are beneficial for the heart.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of oil?
Yes, olive oil is ideal for its flavor, but you can also use canola or coconut oil if you prefer.

2. What other spices can I add?
You can experiment with smoked paprika, garlic, or even a little chili for an extra flavor boost.

3. What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover potatoes can be used in salads or as a filling for a delicious omelet.

This herb-infused potato recipe is not just a side dish, but a true culinary story in every slice. Enjoy every bite and turn your meals into unforgettable moments! Bon appétit!