Sliced Baked Potatoes: A Delicious and Elegant Side Dish

 

Method

  1. Preheat the Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. Prepare the Potatoes:

    • Place a potato on a cutting board. Use two wooden spoons or chopsticks as guides on either side of the potato to prevent cutting all the way through.
    • Slice the potato into thin slices, about 1/8-inch apart, stopping about 1/4 inch from the bottom. Repeat with the remaining potatoes.

  3. Season the Potatoes:

    • In a small bowl, combine the olive oil or melted butter with the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional fresh herbs.
    • Place the sliced potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
    • Using a pastry brush or spoon, carefully brush the olive oil or butter mixture over the tops and in between the slices of each potato. Make sure the mixture gets into the slices for maximum flavor.

  4. Bake the Potatoes:

    • Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are crispy on the edges and tender in the middle. Baste the potatoes with the remaining oil or butter mixture halfway through the baking time to enhance the flavor and crispiness.
    • If using grated Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking.

  5. Garnish and Serve:

    • Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
    • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Sliced Baked Potatoes

  • Even Slices: Using wooden spoons or chopsticks as guides helps to ensure you don't slice all the way through the potatoes.
  • Oil or Butter: Use a combination of both olive oil and butter for a rich flavor.
  • Crispiness: For extra crispy potatoes, you can bake them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow air to circulate underneath.

Versatile and Delicious

Sliced Baked Potatoes can be customized and adapted to suit different tastes and meal pairings:

  • Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses like cheddar, Gruyere, or mozzarella for added flavor.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of paprika, cayenne pepper, or your favorite seasoning blend for a kick.
  • Loaded Potatoes: Top with sour cream, bacon bits, and chives for a loaded baked potato experience.

Nutritional Benefits

While Sliced Baked Potatoes are a tasty indulgence, they also offer some nutritional benefits:

  • Potassium and Vitamin C: Potatoes are a good source of these essential nutrients.
  • Dietary Fiber: Potatoes provide fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.