Baked Potato and Vegetable Medley Recipe

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

  1. 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.
  2. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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


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)

  1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
    Yes, sweet potatoes will add a nice flavor and sweetness to the dish.
  2. What if I don’t have mozzarella cheese?
    You can substitute it with any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar or gouda.
  3. How do I make this dish gluten-free?
    Ensure that any sauces or additional ingredients you use are gluten-free.
  4. 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.
  5. What other vegetables can I add?
    Feel free to include spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms based on your preference.
  6. How do I know when the potatoes are done boiling?
    They should be fork-tender but not falling apart.
  7. Can I freeze the leftovers?
    Yes, you can freeze the baked potatoes for up to 2 months; just reheat them in the oven.
  8. What should I serve with these baked potatoes?
    They pair well with a fresh garden salad or grilled chicken.
  9. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
    Yes, use plant-based cheeses and cream cheese alternatives.
  10. Is this recipe suitable for kids?
    Absolutely! It’s kid-friendly and can be customized to suit their taste.