Hello, dear friends! Today, I’m thrilled to share a fantastic baked potato and vegetable medley recipe that’s not only hearty but also packed with flavor. This dish is perfect as a side or a main course, and it can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful creation!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes (about 600 g)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 white onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 carrot (grated)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (diced)
- 1 tomato (chopped)
- A handful of fresh parsley (chopped)
- A handful of fresh dill (chopped)
- 100 g mozzarella cheese (about 3.5 oz, shredded)
- 80 g cream cheese (about 2.8 oz)
- Tomato sauce (for drizzling)
- A bunch of fresh cilantro (chopped)
Directions
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until fully cooked. Once tender, drain and let them cool slightly before slicing them in half lengthwise.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Prepare the Vegetable Mixture:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
- Stir in the grated carrot and diced yellow pepper, cooking until slightly softened.
- Add the chopped tomato, parsley, and dill to the skillet. Season with salt to taste, and cook for a few more minutes until everything is well combined.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Place the boiled potato halves on a baking tray, cut side up. Spoon the vegetable mixture generously onto each potato half.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and dollops of cream cheese.
- Bake the Potatoes:
- Drizzle with tomato sauce and place the baking tray in the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious baked potato medley!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad for a refreshing complement.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
Cooking Tips
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mixture!
- For added flavor, sprinkle some paprika or Italian seasoning on top before baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and dietary fiber.
- Vegetables contribute essential nutrients, including vitamins A and K, and antioxidants.
- Cheese provides protein and calcium.
Dietary Information
- This recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
- To make it vegan, substitute the cheese with dairy-free alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 3 g
Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a comforting and filling dish that’s easy to prepare.
- You can customize the filling with whatever vegetables you have on hand.
- The combination of creamy cheeses and fresh herbs makes it incredibly delicious.
- Perfect for meal prep, as it reheats well for lunch or dinner.
Conclusion
This baked potato and vegetable medley is a delightful dish that showcases the goodness of wholesome ingredients. It’s simple to prepare and packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe with your loved ones!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will add a nice flavor and sweetness to the dish. - What if I don’t have mozzarella cheese?
You can substitute it with any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar or gouda. - How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Ensure that any sauces or additional ingredients you use are gluten-free. - Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking stage and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. - What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to include spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms based on your preference. - How do I know when the potatoes are done boiling?
They should be fork-tender but not falling apart. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the baked potatoes for up to 2 months; just reheat them in the oven. - What should I serve with these baked potatoes?
They pair well with a fresh garden salad or grilled chicken. - Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based cheeses and cream cheese alternatives. - Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely! It’s kid-friendly and can be customized to suit their taste.