New potatoes baked with sheep cheese

Oven-Baked New Potatoes with Sheep Cheese: a simple and flavorful recipe

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

When it comes to cooking, some recipes remind you of the simple yet joyful moments spent with loved ones. Oven-baked new potatoes with sheep cheese are exactly this type of recipe: a combination of few but exceptionally aromatic ingredients that turn a simple dish into a true feast. These potatoes, with their soft texture and delicate taste, blend perfectly with the sheep cheese, creating a culinary experience full of flavor.

Ingredients:

- 4 large new potatoes (choose potatoes with smooth, firm skin)
- Salt (to taste)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil (or another quality oil, such as canola oil)
- A generous piece of sheep cheese (preferably aged for an intense flavor)

Ingredient details:

1. New potatoes: These are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Choose small to medium potatoes with thin skin to benefit from their delicate texture and sweet taste.

2. Olive oil: This is an excellent nutritional choice, having anti-inflammatory properties and being rich in monounsaturated fatty acids.

3. Sheep cheese: This is a traditional ingredient, highly appreciated for its intense flavor and creamy texture. Well-aged sheep cheese will add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling and washing the potatoes well. Use a vegetable brush to remove dirt, taking care not to remove the skin, which contains many valuable vitamins and minerals.

2. Cutting the potatoes: Cut the potatoes into slices about 1 cm thick. This will allow for even baking and a pleasant texture.

3. Seasoning: Season the potato slices with salt to taste. In a large bowl, add the oil and gently mix the potatoes so that each slice is evenly coated. This will help achieve a crispy crust during baking.

4. Preparing the baking dish: Line a baking tray with parchment paper so the potatoes don’t stick. Arrange the potato slices in the prepared tray, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

5. Baking: Cover the tray with aluminum foil to retain moisture inside. Preheat the oven to 200°C and place the tray inside. Bake the potatoes for 30 minutes.

6. Adding the cheese: After 30 minutes, remove the tray from the oven. Use a grater to add the sheep cheese on top of the potatoes. It will melt slightly, adding extra flavor.

7. Finishing the dish: Place the tray back in the oven without foil for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese starts to brown slightly.

8. Serving: Remove the tray from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes. This dish can be served as is or as a side dish alongside meat dishes, such as grilled steak or roasted chicken.

Serving suggestions:

These oven-baked new potatoes with sheep cheese are delicious and warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Serve them with a fresh vegetable salad or a yogurt and dill sauce for a complete and healthy meal. Additionally, a glass of white wine or herbal tea will pair perfectly with this dish.

Possible variations:

To add a touch of originality, you can try adding herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the potatoes before baking. Also, if you want a spicier taste, add some chili flakes.

Nutritional benefits:

Potatoes contain complex carbohydrates that provide energy, while sheep cheese adds quality protein and calcium. This dish is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy a tasty yet healthy meal.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another type of cheese? Yes, you can substitute sheep cheese with feta cheese or a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for a different variant.
- How can I make the potatoes crispier? If you want crispier potatoes, leave them uncovered for the first 15 minutes of baking.
- Can the potatoes be prepared in advance? Yes, you can prepare the potatoes a few hours ahead and bake them just before serving.

This recipe for oven-baked new potatoes with sheep cheese is not only easy to make but also extremely versatile. Experiment with ingredients and spices and turn it into a dish to enjoy with family and friends. Bon appétit!