Potatoes with garlic and dill

Garlic and Dill Potatoes: A Delicious and Flavorful Side Dish

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Remember family meals when the inviting aroma of roasted potatoes filled the house, mingling with the scents of other dishes. This simple recipe for garlic and dill potatoes is not only a perfect side for a juicy roast but also a savory dish you can enjoy on its own. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this recipe quickly becomes a favorite at your table.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg potatoes (choose red or yellow potatoes for better texture)
- 1 head of garlic (about 10 cloves)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (or sunflower oil, according to preference)

Nutritional Benefits:

Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustainable energy for the body. Garlic is known for its antioxidant and antibacterial properties, while dill adds not only a fresh taste but also essential vitamins and minerals. This combination is not only tasty but also nutritious!

Preparation Techniques:

1. Boiling the potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Then, place them in a pot with cold water and add a teaspoon of salt. Boil for 15-20 minutes until they are easily pierced with a fork. It's important not to overboil them, or they will turn to mush.

2. Peeling and cutting: Once the potatoes are boiled, remove them from the water and let them cool slightly. Peel them and cut into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This step is essential for a pleasant texture in the end.

3. Preparing the garlic sauce: In a small bowl, crush the garlic cloves using a knife or a garlic press. Mix them with the olive oil until you achieve a smooth paste. Add salt and pepper to taste. This sauce will give the potatoes an intense and aromatic flavor.

4. Combining the ingredients: Place the potato cubes in a baking dish. Pour the garlic sauce over the potatoes and gently mix so that each piece is evenly coated. Preheat the oven to 200°C.

5. Baking: Place the dish in the oven and let the potatoes bake for 15 minutes. This step will transform the potatoes into a crispy and delicious side dish, and the aroma of garlic will intensify.

6. Adding the dill: After 15 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and add the finely chopped dill. Gently mix, then cover the dish with aluminum foil for another 10 minutes. This step will allow the dill to release its flavors and blend perfectly with the potatoes.

Serving Suggestions:

Garlic and dill potatoes are delicious alongside a pork or chicken roast, but they can also be enjoyed as a vegetarian dish. You can serve them with a fresh vegetable salad for a light lunch or as a side for a festive dinner. A bottle of dry white wine or a cold lemonade perfectly complements the meal.

Possible Variations:

- Cheese Potatoes: Add crumbled feta or grated parmesan over the potatoes before baking for an extra flavor boost.
- Spicy Potatoes: If you like spicy food, you can add some chopped chili pepper to the garlic sauce.
- Dried Dill: If you can't find fresh dill, you can use dried dill, but the flavors will be less intense.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use unpeeled potatoes?: Yes, but the skin adds a pleasant texture and is rich in fiber, so I recommend boiling them with the skin.
- How can I store leftover potatoes?: You can store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a pan to make them crispy again.
- Can I freeze the potatoes?: Generally, it is not recommended to freeze boiled potatoes as their texture will change. It is best to consume them fresh.

This garlic and dill potato recipe is not just a simple side dish but an explosion of flavors that will delight any meal. Try it and enjoy the authentic taste it offers. Enjoy your meal!