Mashed Potatoes with Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

My Simple, Yet Elegant, Mashed Potatoes

As a busy professional woman, time is my most valuable commodity. I need recipes that are both delicious and efficient, and these mashed potatoes absolutely fit the bill. They’re so incredibly easy to make, yet the result is a dish that feels elegant enough for a dinner party or comforting enough for a quiet night in. The secret? High-quality extra-virgin olive oil. It’s the unexpected twist that elevates these humble spuds from ordinary to extraordinary.

I’ve always been a bit of a food snob when it comes to olive oil. I remember my grandmother, a wonderful cook herself, always stressing the importance of using good ingredients. She’d say, "The better the base, the better the result." And she was right. A good olive oil has a fruity, peppery bite that perfectly complements the creamy texture of the potatoes. It adds a subtle depth of flavor you just won’t get with cheaper oils. Trust me on this one; the extra few dollars are worth it.

This recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It’s quick enough to whip up after a long day at the office, yet refined enough to impress even the most discerning palate. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile. These mashed potatoes are delightful on their own, but they also serve as a fantastic base for other dishes. Think roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even a simple steak. The possibilities are endless.

I often make a double batch on the weekend and store it in the fridge for quick meals during the week. Simply reheat gently over medium heat, adding a touch more reserved cooking liquid if needed to restore moisture. It's that easy! And honestly, there's something so satisfying about having a delicious, homemade side dish ready to go whenever the craving hits.

Beyond the convenience, what I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. There’s no need for fancy equipment or complicated techniques. Just a few good ingredients, a little bit of love, and some good quality olive oil. And that, my friends, is the epitome of good cooking.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can easily adjust the seasoning to your personal taste. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme adds a fragrant touch, while a dash of garlic powder can give it a bit more punch. Feel free to experiment and find your perfect combination. The possibilities are truly endless.

So, next time you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful side dish, give these mashed potatoes a try. You won’t regret it. They're a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most satisfying.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Mashed Potatoes:

• Use starchy potatoes like russets or Idaho potatoes for the creamiest results.
• Don’t over-mash the potatoes; a slightly chunky texture is actually quite appealing.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Salt and pepper are essential, but feel free to experiment with other seasonings.
• If your potatoes are too dry, add a little more reserved cooking liquid or even a splash of milk or cream.
• For an extra touch of luxury, consider adding a knob of butter to the mashed potatoes along with the olive oil.

These simple mashed potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• Place potatoes in heavy large pot.
• Cover with cold water.
• Boil over medium-high heat until potatoes are tender when pierced with fork, about 40 minutes.
• Drain, reserving 1 1/2 cups potato cooking liquid.
• Return potatoes to dry pot.
• Stir over medium heat until any excess liquid evaporates.
• Add 6 tablespoons olive oil and mash until almost smooth.
• Mix in enough potato cooking liquid as needed to moisten.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper.
• (Can be made 2 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature. Rewarm over medium heat, adding more reserved cooking water as needed to moisten.)
• Transfer potatoes to large bowl.
• Drizzle with remaining tablespoon olive oil and serve.