Potato stew with tomatoes, arugula, and basil

Potato stew with tomatoes, arugula, and basil: A recipe that transforms the mundane into the extraordinary

Total time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a tasty and comforting stew? In this recipe, we will take the classic potato stew and enrich it with fresh and aromatic ingredients, giving rise to a dish that is not only filling but also colorful and flavorful. The creamy potatoes perfectly combine with the lightly sautéed vegetables, while the basil and arugula add a freshness that makes all the difference.

The history of stews is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. These dishes have been cooked over time from simple yet nutritious ingredients, often serving as an ingenious solution to feed large families. The potato stew with tomatoes, arugula, and basil is a modern reinterpretation of this concept, bringing a touch of sophistication.

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 grams of white potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 zucchini, cut lengthwise in half and then into rounds
- 100 grams of mushrooms, quartered
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 20 grams of pine nuts
- 100 ml of skim milk
- 70 grams of arugula salad mix
- 6 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 10 fresh basil leaves
- 30 grams of grated Parmesan
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Calories per serving: approximately 400

Step by step for a perfect stew:

1. Boiling the potatoes: Start by placing the diced potatoes in a large pot with cold water and a little salt. Boil them over medium heat for about 20 minutes, or until they are soft but not falling apart. It is important not to overcook them so you can easily mash them later.

2. Preparing the vegetables: While the potatoes are boiling, prepare the vegetables. In a wok or large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the zucchini and quartered mushrooms, sautéing them for 4-5 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure they brown evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Toasting the pine nuts: In a separate skillet, toast the pine nuts over low heat, stirring constantly until they become golden. They add a crunchy texture and a slight nutty flavor that will wonderfully complement the dish.

4. Potato mash: Once the potatoes are boiled, drain them and mash them with a potato masher. Heat the milk and gradually add it to the potatoes, stirring continuously to achieve a creamy puree. This will become the delicious base of the stew.

5. Combining the ingredients: In the bowl with the potato puree, add the sautéed vegetables, cherry tomatoes, arugula mix, and fresh basil. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Ensure that all the ingredients are well incorporated.

6. Finalizing the dish: Add the grated Parmesan, stirring until it melts and incorporates into the stew. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if necessary. Finally, add the toasted pine nuts, reserving a few for decoration.

7. Serving: Serve the potato stew warm, sprinkled with the remaining pine nuts and a few fresh basil leaves for an attractive appearance. This stew can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish alongside grilled meat or fish.

Useful tips:
- You can add other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, to diversify the taste and texture.
- Replace skim milk with cream for a richer and creamier version.
- If you're vegetarian, omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.

Possible variations:
- You can add herbs like oregano or thyme to enhance the aroma.
- Instead of pine nuts, you can use walnuts or roasted peanuts for a different flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes? Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- How can I store the stew for reheating? You can store the stew in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat it over low heat, adding a little milk to restore its creaminess.

This potato stew with tomatoes, arugula, and basil is not just a simple meal, but an explosion of flavors and textures that will bring joy to your table.

Dare to experiment and add a personal touch to your favorite recipe! Bon appétit!