Description
Mediterranean Mashed Potatoes with Feta and Olives
Ingredients
2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and chopped
4 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzle)
1/4 cup milk or cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/3 cup mixed olives (green and Kalamata)
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
Boil the potatoes: Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
Mash the potatoes: Add olive oil, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the dish: Transfer mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Top with crumbled feta, olives, dill, and parsley.
Finish with a drizzle: Drizzle with extra olive oil and sprinkle with a touch of black pepper. Serve warm!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Calories: 230 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, choose your potatoes: Yukon Gold for a naturally buttery, creamy texture or Russet for a fluffier mash. After peeling and chopping them into uniform 1.5-inch chunks, place them in a large pot of cold, salted water. Starting with cold water ensures even cooking. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until a fork slides in easily, about 15-20 minutes. Thoroughly drain the potatoes and return them to the hot pot for a minute to evaporate excess moisture—this prevents a watery mash. While the potatoes are hot, add the olive oil, milk (or cream), and minced garlic. Mash vigorously with a potato masher or ricer until your desired consistency is reached. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Serving Suggestions
These flavorful mashed potatoes are a versatile side dish. They pair wonderfully with grilled lamb chops, lemon-herb roasted chicken, or baked salmon. For a vegetarian feast, serve alongside roasted vegetables like eggplant and zucchini, or a hearty lentil stew. To elevate the presentation, garnish with an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs, a few whole olives, and a final swirl of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving.
How-to Summary
In short, this dish involves boiling chopped potatoes until tender, draining them, and mashing with olive oil, milk, and garlic. The mixture is then topped with crumbled feta cheese, mixed olives, fresh dill, and parsley, finished with a drizzle of olive oil and black pepper.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these mashed potatoes ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the base mash (without toppings) up to a day ahead. Store covered in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess, then add the fresh toppings.
What can I use instead of feta cheese? For a similar tangy, salty profile, try crumbled goat cheese or a briny ricotta salata. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan feta alternative or capers for a salty punch.
How do I get the smoothest mashed potatoes? Use a potato ricer or food mill for a completely lump-free texture. Avoid using a food processor, as it can make the potatoes gluey.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? Fresh herbs are highly recommended for their bright flavor. If you must substitute, use 1/3 the amount of dried dill and parsley, but the flavor will be less vibrant.
Are these potatoes gluten-free? Yes, all ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Always check labels on pre-packaged items like olives to ensure no cross-contamination.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: Do not overcook the potatoes until they are waterlogged, as this leads to a soggy mash. Do not add cold milk or cream to the hot potatoes, as it cools the mixture and affects texture—warm your liquid first. Do not over-mix the potatoes with an electric mixer, which releases too much starch and creates a gummy consistency. Finally, do not add the feta and olives into the mash while stirring, as they are meant to be flavorful toppings that provide texture contrast.
Conclusion
This recipe transforms classic mashed potatoes into a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired side dish. The combination of creamy potatoes, rich olive oil, salty feta, briny olives, and fresh herbs creates a complex flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that proves a few quality ingredients can make all the difference. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to become a new favorite.