Potato dish with olives

Potato and Olive Dish - A Recipe Full of Flavor and Color

Who can resist a warm meal, full of aroma and color? The potato and olive dish is a perfect choice, whether you're preparing it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This simple and delicious recipe combines the creamy texture of potatoes with the intense flavor of olives and the freshness of vegetables, providing you with a delightful culinary experience.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 1 kg potatoes
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
- 2 carrots
- 3 onions
- 150 g olives (preferably green or black, to taste)
- 4 tomatoes
- 50 ml olive oil or sunflower oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Vegeta (or other preferred seasoning)
- Freshly ground pepper
- Salt, to taste

A Bit of History

The potato and olive dish has deep roots in culinary traditions, being a popular recipe among many cultures. The potato, an accessible and versatile ingredient, has been incorporated into various dishes, and the combination with olives adds a Mediterranean touch, rich in flavor and texture. This recipe is not only nutritious but also a true feast for the eyes, thanks to the vibrant colors of the vegetables.

Step by Step - Preparing the Potato and Olive Dish

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by peeling the potatoes, carrots, onions, and bell peppers. Wash the potatoes well under cold running water and cut them into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Chop the carrots and bell peppers finely. The onion can be diced or julienned, depending on your preference.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables
In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Sprinkle a pinch of Vegeta and a bit of pepper to enhance the flavors.

3. Adding the Carrots and Peppers
Add the chopped carrots and continue to sauté the vegetables for another 2-3 minutes. Then, add the sliced bell peppers and deglaze with a little water, just enough to cover the bottom of the pot. Cover with a lid and let the vegetables simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.

4. Potatoes in Action
After the vegetables have softened, add the cut potatoes and enough water to cover them. Let everything boil for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender but not overcooked.

5. Tomatoes and Olives
Dice the tomatoes and add them to the pot along with the olives. Mix well and bring everything to a boil. Now it's time to preheat the oven to 180°C.

6. Baking in the Oven
Once the mixture has started to boil, transfer the pot to the oven. Cook for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, remove the pot and add the tomato paste. This will enrich the flavor of the dish and give it a vibrant color.

7. Finalizing the Dish
When the dish has thickened and become consistent, add the chopped dill and leave it in the oven for another 5 minutes. This last step will add a fresh note, perfect for finishing the dish.

8. Serving
The potato and olive dish is served hot, alongside a fresh salad or assorted pickles. This will perfectly complement the flavors and add a pleasant contrast.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes that break apart easily when cooked, providing a pleasant texture.
- Olives: Choose pitted olives to avoid any discomfort when serving. Green olives have a stronger taste, while black ones are sweeter.
- Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to diversify the dish.
- Spices: Experiment with herbs like basil or oregano to add an extra layer of flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is not only delicious but also healthy. Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. Olives are rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins, contributing to heart health. The vegetables add fiber and essential vitamins, making this recipe ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and an interesting flavor to this dish.

- How can I store the dish for the next day?
The dish keeps well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or on the stovetop.

- Can it be frozen?
We recommend not freezing the dish, as the potatoes may become watery upon thawing.

Delicious Combinations

This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh crudité salad, as well as a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or freshly squeezed lemonade. You can also accompany the meal with a serving of Greek yogurt, which will add a creamy and refreshing note.

Personal Note

I remember the moments spent in the kitchen, cooking this recipe with my grandmother. Each ingredient added was a story, and the aroma from the oven brought us all together around the table. I encourage you to bring your own memories into your dish and personalize it as you like. Enjoy your meal!