Baked Feta Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes

This savory potato and feta bake is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. With roasted red peppers, pesto, and feta cheese, its a simple yet delicious meal. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds potatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped roasted red peppers
• 1 tablespoon prepared pesto
• 2 cloves garlic, mashed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper, or to taste
• 8 oz block feta cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C).
2. In a large baking dish, combine the potatoes, roasted red peppers, pesto, and mashed garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and toss everything together to combine evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the block of feta cheese into the center of the potato mixture, nestling it gently into the ingredients.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Once the potatoes are cooked through, use a potato masher to mash the potatoes and feta together, creating a creamy, flavorful mixture.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	364
Total Fat	22g (29%)
Saturated Fat	9g (43%)
Cholesterol	40mg (13%)
Sodium	555mg (24%)
Total Carbohydrate	32g (12%)
Dietary Fiber	3g (12%)
Total Sugars	4g
Protein	10g (21%)
Vitamin C	37mg (41%)
Calcium	258mg (20%)
Iron	2mg (11%)
Potassium	803mg (17%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History: The recipe for Baked Feta Mashed Potatoes brings together traditional mashed potatoes with the rich, creamy taste of feta cheesea relatively modern pairing that has gained popularity in recent years. Feta, a brined cheese originating from Greece, has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. While mashed potatoes have long been a fundamental part of many cuisines, particularly in Europe and North America, combining these two ingredients in such a way reflects contemporary food trends. The dish takes inspiration from the Mediterranean diet, which is known for its emphasis on fresh vegetables, olive oil, and cheeses like feta. This fusion recipe has become widely appreciated for its balance of creamy texture and vibrant flavors.

Regional Variations: While mashed potatoes are a beloved dish worldwide, the addition of feta cheese adds a unique Mediterranean twist. In regions like Greece and Turkey, feta cheese is often used in a variety of savory dishes such as salads, pies, and spreads. This mashed potato recipe borrows from the Mediterranean palette by incorporating ingredients like pesto, roasted red peppers, and olive oil, which are common in Greek and broader Eastern Mediterranean cuisine. Depending on the region, variations of this dish may include different types of cheese or the addition of herbs like thyme or oregano for extra flavor. In some parts of the world, mashed potatoes are cooked with local cheeses such as ricotta or parmesan, further highlighting the adaptability of the dish.

Difference from Similar Dishes: While many mashed potato recipes focus on butter, cream, or cheese as the primary source of richness, the Baked Feta Mashed Potatoes recipe sets itself apart by using feta cheese as a key ingredient. Unlike other mashed potato variations that might rely on heavy cream or milk for creaminess, feta imparts a tangy and slightly salty flavor, balancing the richness of the potatoes. Additionally, the baking process intensifies the flavors and ensures that the feta cheese becomes beautifully soft and creamy, blending seamlessly with the potatoes. This gives the dish a distinct character that is unlike traditional mashed potatoes or other cheese-laden versions like cheesy scalloped potatoes.

Where It's Usually Served: Baked Feta Mashed Potatoes are typically served as a side dish, accompanying a wide range of main courses. This dish pairs particularly well with roasted meats like lamb, chicken, or beef, as well as grilled fish. The Mediterranean flavors of feta, pesto, and roasted peppers make it an ideal match for lighter fare such as grilled vegetables or seafood. The dish is also perfect for a casual dinner gathering or a special holiday meal, where it can take center stage as a comforting, flavorful side. Its unique combination of ingredients and flavors makes it a standout dish at any table.

Interesting Facts: The global rise of feta cheese in contemporary cuisine is partly due to the success of viral recipes like the "Baked Feta Pasta" that took over social media platforms in recent years. As food trends evolve, ingredients like feta cheese are finding their way into more dishes, transcending their traditional uses. Interestingly, feta cheese is a product protected by the European Union's PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) status, which means it must be made in specific regions of Greece, ensuring its authenticity. The Baked Feta Mashed Potatoes recipe benefits from this unique cheese, which provides a level of complexity and flavor that regular cheeses simply can't match. Additionally, the use of pesto and roasted red peppers adds a burst of color and antioxidants, making this dish as healthy as it is delicious.

FAQ about Baked Feta Mashed Potatoes Recipe