Oven-baked potatoes with cheese and sour cream

Oven-baked potatoes with cheese, sour cream, and mint are a true delicacy, a comforting and soothing dish, perfect for any occasion. This simple and quick recipe is ideal for those who desire a tasty and easy-to-prepare meal. With a fresh mint flavor and a creamy combination of cheese and sour cream, these potatoes become a delightful surprise on any family's table.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 4 large baking potatoes (choose starchy potatoes like Russet or Idaho)
- 225 g soft cow cheese (ricotta or mascarpone can also be used for a creamier texture)
- 1 tablespoon fresh green mint, finely chopped (or more to taste)
- 5 tablespoons sour cream (preferably full-fat for a rich taste)
- 1 clove garlic, crushed (optional, but recommended for a stronger flavor)
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- A little olive oil to grease the potatoes

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any impurities. Dry them with a clean towel. While some prefer to peel them, I recommend leaving the skins on to add texture and nutrients.

2. Baking the potatoes: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased with a little olive oil. Using a fork, poke each potato several times to allow steam to escape during baking. Bake the potatoes in the oven for about 1 hour, or until they are soft and lightly golden.

3. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, mix the soft cow cheese with the sour cream, chopped mint, and crushed garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a stronger mint flavor, you can add a few extra leaves. This mixture will provide a refreshing note and delicious taste to the potatoes.

4. Preparing the potatoes for filling: Once the potatoes are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut each potato in a cross shape, but not all the way through, allowing it to open slightly. If you want to add even more mint, you can slice the potato lengthwise halfway and place a few fresh mint leaves in the formed crack.

5. Filling the potatoes: Use a spoon to fill each potato with the cheese and sour cream mixture. Make sure each bite contains a generous portion of this delicious combination.

6. Serving: Serve the baked potatoes warm, alongside a fresh green salad that will add a crunchy and refreshing contrast. If desired, you can drizzle a little olive oil on top and sprinkle some fresh mint for added flavor.

Practical tips:
- Choose potatoes that are similar in size for even baking.
- If you want a vegan version, you can replace the cheese with a mixture of tofu and herbs.
- Baked potatoes are best served warm, but they can also be reheated in the microwave for a quick snack.
- You can experiment with other herbs, such as basil or parsley, to add another dimension of flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This baked potato recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, vitamins (such as vitamin C), and minerals (like potassium). Cheese and sour cream add protein and healthy fats. Each serving has approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the type of cheese and sour cream used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use new potatoes for this recipe?
- While new potatoes can be used, starchy ones provide a better texture for filling.

2. What can I do with leftover filling?
- The leftover filling can be used as a dip for raw vegetables or spread on toasted bread.

3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and filling a few hours ahead, and when you're ready to serve, bake them in the oven.

Possible variations:
- Add crispy bacon or ham for a heartier version.
- Use cheddar or feta cheese for a different flavor.
- Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.

Oven-baked potatoes with cheese, sour cream, and mint are not just a delicious dish, but also a culinary experience that will turn you into a true kitchen master. Try this recipe and enjoy every bite!