The Mediterranean diet prides itself on its fresh, wholesome foods and vibrant, aromatic flavours. Mediterranean cuisine is defined by its delicious simplicity. A simple dish of roasted potatoes with olive and herb oil is a great example. In this post, we will learn the secrets of Mediterranean-style roast potatoes. They are a delicious combination of earthy potatoes, fragrant herbs, and rich extra-virgin olive oil.
The Ingredients
- Herbs: The heart and soul of Mediterranean cuisine are fresh herbs. Classic choices for herbs include thyme, basil, rosemary and oregano. These herbs will infuse your potatoes with a unique earthiness, freshness and fragrance blend.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: It is the basis of Mediterranean Cuisine. Its fruity, peppery notes complement potatoes’ natural flavour while contributing to the irresistible crunchy texture.
- Pepper & Salt: Simply seasoning the roasted potatoes with pepper and salt will enhance the taste and let the other ingredients shine.
The Method
- The Preparation: To begin, heat your oven to a temperature of 425degF. While the oven warms up, scrub and cut the potatoes into bite-sized portions. For added flavour, leave the skin on.
- Colour Selection: Use your favourite colours to choose herbs. Combining rosemary, thyme oregano will give you a classic Mediterranean flair. Fresh herbs work best, but you can use dried ones if fresh are not available.
- The seasoning: In an extra-large bowl, add the chopped garlic, herbs, and salt to the potatoes. Ensure you coat the potatoes well with the mix so that the garlic and the herbs can adhere.
- Roasting: Spread them in a single, even layer onto a baking sheet. This ensures an even cook and better browning. Roast the potatoes at the highest temperature in the oven for about 30-35 minutes until they are golden and crispy.
The Mediterranean Magic
The Mediterranean-style roast potatoes’ charm lies in the harmony of these simple yet flavorful components:
1. Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated oils that are characteristic of the Mediterranean diet. It creates an exterior that is crispy and golden while retaining the moistness of the potatoes.
2. Fresh Herbs: Herbs like thyme, rosemary, and other fresh herbs add aroma and flavour. Their earthy, fragrant tones complement the potatoes’ natural sweetness and create a Mediterranean-inspired bouquet of scents.
3. Crispy Texture: Roasting potatoes on a high setting ensures their exterior is irresistibly crisp while the creamy interior is retained. This texture combination embodies Mediterranean comfort cuisine.
Suggestions for Serving
Mediterranean-style roast potatoes pair perfectly with a range of dishes. Here are serving suggestions to elevate the meal:
- Mediterranean Feast: Serve the potatoes and grilled lamb, fish, or chicken for a hearty Mediterranean dinner. A simple salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta accompanies. It’s a delicious meal that is dressed in olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
- Vegetarian Delicacy: Make the potato the star at a vegetarian dinner by serving it with a dollop (or two) of tzatziki/hummus and a warm side of pita.
- Brunch Bliss: These potatoes are a delightful addition to a Mediterranean-inspired brunch. Pair them with sauteed or poached spinach and feta crumbles.
Conclusion
Mediterranean-style roast potatoes with herbs in olive oil take you on an aromatic journey to the Mediterranean. This dish perfectly captures Mediterranean cuisine. It is a combination of the simplicity of the ingredients combined with the complexity and flavours that olive oil, garlic, herbs and other spices can offer. If you serve these potatoes as an appetizer, a side dish or a main course, they will give your meal a Mediterranean flair, and each bite will be a culinary delight. Following this recipe, you can enjoy the Mediterranean flavours right in your kitchen.
