New potatoes baked with cheese cream

Savory Recipe for Oven-Baked New Potatoes with Cream Cheese

When it comes to simple yet flavorful dishes, oven-baked new potatoes with cream cheese are definitely at the top of the list. This recipe combines the crispy texture of roasted potatoes with the creaminess of a flavored cheese, providing an unforgettable culinary experience. Plus, the preparation is quick and easy, making it ideal for an everyday meal or a special occasion. Let's discover together the necessary steps to achieve this delight!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
For the potatoes:
- 1 kg new potatoes
- 1 teaspoon butter
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (or another vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon dried or fresh rosemary

For the cream cheese:
- 1 package of herb cream cheese (recommended Delaco)
- 1 heaping tablespoon of thick sour cream
- 4 sprigs of fresh dill
- freshly ground pepper, to taste
- salt, to taste

Preparing the potatoes:
1. Start by washing the new potatoes under a cold water jet. It is important to wash them well to remove any impurities, as the thin skin of new potatoes is full of nutrients and flavor.
2. Place the cleaned potatoes in a large pot of water. Add a teaspoon of butter and a pinch of salt. These will give a pleasant taste to the potatoes during boiling.
3. Boil the potatoes for 10-15 minutes, until they become slightly tender but not fully cooked. Check them with a fork; if it goes in easily, they are ready.
4. After boiling, drain the potatoes and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. This trick will make cleaning the tray easier and will prevent the potatoes from sticking.
5. Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and dried rosemary. If using fresh rosemary, chop it finely to release its flavors.
6. Preheat the oven to 200°C and place the tray with potatoes inside. Bake for 20-30 minutes, stirring once to ensure they brown evenly. The golden color will be the perfect indicator of their doneness.

Preparing the cream cheese:
1. In a medium bowl, add the herb cream cheese and sour cream. Mix them well with a spatula or whisk until you obtain a smooth and creamy mixture.
2. Finely chop the fresh dill and add it to the cheese mixture. The dill will give a fresh and aromatic note to the cream cheese.
3. Taste the cream and season with salt and freshly ground pepper, to preference. You can also add a little lemon juice for extra acidity, which will balance the flavors.

Serving:
1. Once the potatoes are browned and have a crispy crust, take them out of the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to settle.
2. Arrange the potatoes on a platter and serve them alongside the cream cheese. You can sprinkle a bit of fresh dill on top for a more attractive appearance.
3. I recommend pairing them with a seasonal salad, which will add freshness and perfectly complement the meal.

Useful tips:
- If you don't have dill, you can use parsley or fresh basil to give a different taste to the cream cheese.
- New potatoes are excellent for grilling or boiling, but baking gives them an unmistakable texture.
- Make sure the new potatoes are of uniform size to cook evenly.

Nutritional benefits:
New potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and minerals. They contain antioxidants that help maintain a healthy immune system. The cream cheese, due to its dairy content, provides calcium and protein, essential for bone health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use potatoes of other varieties?
Yes, but new potatoes have a finer texture and sweeter flavor, making them ideal for this recipe.
2. How can I store leftover cream cheese?
The cream cheese can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
3. Can I add other spices?
Of course! Garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of chili can add a spicy note to the potatoes.

Possible variations:
- You can add feta or cheddar cheese to the cream cheese for a more intense flavor.
- Instead of rosemary, experiment with oregano or thyme to change the flavors.
- Add vegetables like carrots or red onion to the tray for an even more colorful and tasty dish.

This recipe for oven-baked new potatoes with cream cheese is not only easy to make but also extremely versatile. It can easily become a staple in your culinary repertoire, offering both exceptional taste and satisfaction. Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!