Description
Mediterranean Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and cubed)
1/4 cup olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
1/4 cup milk (or plant-based milk for dairy-free)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup mixed olives (kalamata and green)
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
2 tbsp red onion (thinly sliced)
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt & pepper to taste
Red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Directions
Cook the Potatoes: Place cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
Mash the Potatoes: Add olive oil, milk, garlic, and lemon zest to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Mediterranean Toppings: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. Top with crumbled feta, olives, red onion, and fresh parsley.
Finish & Serve: Drizzle with extra olive oil and sprinkle with red chili flakes if desired. Serve warm as a side dish or enjoy as a vegetarian main!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 250 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Mediterranean Mashed Potatoes every time. First, ensure your potatoes are uniformly cubed for even cooking. After draining, let them steam in the hot pot for a minute to evaporate excess moisture—this prevents watery mash. When mashing, use a potato ricer or masher for the creamiest texture; avoid blenders or food processors which can make them gluey. Gently fold in the garlic and lemon zest to distribute the flavors evenly before seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with grilled lamb chops, lemon-herb roasted chicken, or baked salmon. For a vegetarian feast, serve it alongside roasted vegetables and hummus. You can also present it as a hearty base for a grain bowl, topped with chickpeas, cucumbers, and tzatziki. For a party, serve the mashed potatoes in individual small bowls or ramekins for elegant, portion-controlled sides.
How-to Summary
In summary, create this dish by boiling cubed Yukon Gold potatoes until tender, then mashing them with olive oil, milk, garlic, and lemon zest. Season well, then top with a vibrant Mediterranean mix of feta cheese, mixed olives, red onion, and fresh parsley. A final drizzle of olive oil and optional chili flakes completes the dish.
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 in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess, then add fresh toppings before serving.
What’s the best potato substitute for a lighter version? For fewer carbs, try using half cauliflower florets. Boil them with the potatoes until very soft, then drain and mash as directed. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, covered, stirring occasionally. The toppings are best added fresh after reheating.
Is there a substitute for feta cheese? For a dairy-free or different flavor profile, try crumbled vegan feta, creamy goat cheese, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami note.
My mashed potatoes turned out gluey. What happened? This is often caused by over-mixing, which releases too much starch. Use a gentler mashing motion and avoid using electric mixers. Also, ensure you are using a starchy potato like Yukon Gold or Russet, not waxy varieties.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Underseasoning the boiling water: Salt the water generously like pasta water to flavor the potatoes from within.
- Adding cold liquids: Ensure your milk is at least room temperature before mixing it into the hot potatoes to maintain a warm, fluffy texture.
- Overloading with toppings: The toppings are a garnish. Adding too many can overwhelm the creamy potato base.
- Skipping the lemon zest: The zest is crucial for the bright, Mediterranean flavor; don’t substitute with just lemon juice.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Mashed Potatoes are a brilliant twist on a classic comfort food, transforming a simple side into a vibrant, flavor-packed dish. By combining creamy, garlicky potatoes with tangy feta, briny olives, and fresh herbs, you create a side that is both satisfying and exciting. It’s a simple recipe that delivers impressive results, perfect for elevating a weeknight dinner or becoming the star of your next gathering. Give this recipe a try and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.