Mashed Potatoes with Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

My Simple, Delicious Mashed Potatoes

As a busy working mom, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare. This mashed potato recipe fits the bill perfectly. It’s a simple dish, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time, but the result is incredibly satisfying. The secret? High-quality extra virgin olive oil. It elevates this humble side dish to a culinary experience.

I remember my grandmother making mashed potatoes. Hers were always creamy and comforting, the kind that would melt in your mouth. This recipe reminds me of her cooking, but with a modern twist. Using good quality olive oil is key; it adds a subtle fruity note that complements the earthy flavor of the potatoes beautifully. I’ve experimented with different types of olive oil, and honestly, the better the oil, the richer and more flavorful the potatoes become. It's a small change that makes a big difference.

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. It’s equally at home alongside a roast chicken, a hearty steak, or even as a simple yet elegant side for a vegetarian meal. I often double the recipe, especially when we have guests over. The leftovers are also fantastic – cold mashed potatoes make a great addition to a breakfast scramble or a quick lunch.

Beyond the ease of preparation, I appreciate the wholesome nature of this dish. Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, providing sustained energy, while the olive oil adds healthy fats essential for our well-being. It’s a feel-good meal that nourishes both body and soul.

Tips and Variations:

For extra creaminess: Add a splash of milk or cream to the potatoes while mashing. You can even use a little bit of sour cream or crème fraîche for a tangier flavor.

Garlic lover? Add a clove or two of roasted garlic to the mashed potatoes for a lovely aromatic touch. The roasted garlic adds a sweetness that pairs beautifully with the olive oil.

Herbs for enhanced flavor: Experiment with fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or rosemary. These fresh additions add a vibrant green color and a burst of fresh herbs. A simple sprinkle before serving elevates the presentation too.

Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the mashed potatoes a couple of hours in advance, and they’ll reheat beautifully. This is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when time is of the essence.

This simple side dish has become a staple in our house. It’s a comforting classic, elevated by the simple addition of quality ingredients. Give it a try; I’m confident it will become a favorite in your kitchen, too. It’s more than just mashed potatoes; it's a taste of comfort, ease, and simple deliciousness.

Making this recipe has become a ritual for me. A moment of quiet amidst the daily rush, a small act of nurturing, a little bit of magic that transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. The aroma fills the kitchen, promising a warm and satisfying meal, and for me, that’s what home cooking is all about.

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.