Sliced Baked Potato Recipe with Olive Oil and Sea Salt

A Simple yet Irresistibly Delicious Potatoes Dish You’ll Love

There’s something inherently comforting about potatoes, and when they’re transformed into sliced baked potato recipe with olive oil and sea salt, they become a dish that can brighten anyone’s day. This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Let's dive into how you can create this mouthwatering side dish at home.

To get started, you’ll need some basic ingredients: large russet potatoes, extra-virgin olive oil, coarse sea salt, and optionally, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra burst of flavor. The process is simple and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend brunch.

How to Prepare Sliced Baked Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature helps in achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and fluffy. While the oven heats up, start preparing your potatoes.

Step 2: Slice the Potatoes

Clean the potatoes thoroughly and slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick. If you don’t have a mandoline, no worries—a steady hand with a good chef’s knife will do just fine.

Step 3: Toss with Olive Oil and Seasonings

In a large bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with enough olive oil to coat them evenly. Drizzle about 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over the slices, and then add a generous sprinkle of coarse sea salt. You can also add some freshly ground black pepper if you prefer a bit more depth. For an extra touch, finely chop some fresh rosemary or thyme and mix it in with the potatoes.

Step 4: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup easier. Arrange the potato slices in a single layer on the sheet, making sure they are not overlapping. This allows each slice to crisp up nicely without becoming soggy.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges of the potatoes are golden brown and crispy. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the slices to ensure even browning on both sides.

The Flavor Profile and Nutritional Benefits

This sliced baked potato recipe with olive oil and sea salt is a testament to the power of simplicity. The combination of the earthy, slightly sweet potato with the rich, fruity flavor of olive oil and the subtle crunch of sea salt creates a balanced and satisfying taste. The olive oil adds a layer of creaminess and helps to caramelize the natural sugars in the potatoes, enhancing their sweetness.

But it’s not all about the taste—this dish is also a healthy choice. Potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. Olive oil, known for its heart-healthy benefits, provides monounsaturated fats that can help lower bad cholesterol levels. Sea salt, used sparingly, adds a mineral-rich finishing touch without overpowering the dish.

Pairing Suggestions

Sliced baked potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of main dishes. They make a fantastic side for grilled meats, especially steak or chicken. Their neutral yet comforting flavor also complements seafood, such as salmon or shrimp. For a vegetarian option, serve them alongside a hearty lentil stew or a flavorful roasted vegetable medley.

A Personal Touch

Every time I make these sliced baked potatoes, I can’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction. There’s something so gratifying about turning simple ingredients into something so delicious. The smell of the olive oil and the crackling sound of the potatoes in the oven transport me to a place of calm and joy. It’s a dish that never fails to bring smiles to faces, whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

So why not give this sliced baked potato recipe with olive oil and sea salt a try? It’s a recipe that’s easy to follow, quick to prepare, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Happy cooking!