Are you looking for simple yet delicious and healthy meal ideas? Look no further! Potatoes, tomatoes, and onions – three pantry staples that form the foundation of countless incredible dishes. Their versatility allows for quick weeknight dinners or more elaborate weekend feasts. This post explores the magic of these three ingredients, offering easy recipes that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you'll find something to love here.
Simple Roasted Mediterranean Potatoes, Tomatoes, and Onions
This recipe is a celebration of fresh flavors, perfect as a side dish or a light vegetarian meal. It’s incredibly easy to make, relying on the oven to do most of the work, leaving you with tender potatoes and bursting tomatoes. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb small red potatoes, quartered
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes, tomatoes, and red onion with olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is well coated.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and slightly browned, stirring halfway through.
- If using, sprinkle with feta cheese during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a clove or two of minced garlic to the mixture.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika.
- If you prefer crispier potatoes, roast them at a higher temperature (425°F/220°C) for a shorter time.
Variations:
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Herby: Include fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving for extra freshness.
- Cheesy: Experiment with different cheeses like Parmesan or goat cheese.
Quick and Easy Potato, Tomato, and Onion Curry
This recipe showcases the versatility of these ingredients in a savory and aromatic curry. Perfect for a quick dinner, it's both delicious and satisfying. It's an ideal example of quick dinner ideas that don't sacrifice flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the potatoes, crushed tomatoes, curry powder, turmeric, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve with rice or naan bread for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving – approximate, varies based on specific ingredients and portion size):
- Calories: Around 250-300
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Fat: 8-10g
These recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to adapt them to your liking and explore the endless possibilities of this flavorful trio. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the satisfaction of creating delicious dishes from simple ingredients!