Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Mashed Potatoes with Olive Oil and Herbs are a refreshing twist on the classic buttery version, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying side dish. By replacing traditional butter and cream with extra virgin olive oil, the potatoes take on a smooth, velvety texture with a fruity richness that feels both indulgent and wholesome. The addition of fresh herbs brings brightness and depth, transforming a simple comfort food into a dish worthy of any dinner table. Perfect for weeknight meals, holiday spreads, or special gatherings, these mashed potatoes are naturally dairy-free, making them suitable for a variety of diets. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled fish, or vegetarian mains, adapting seamlessly to any menu. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this dish proves that comfort food can be both nourishing and elegant. Once you try them, you may find yourself choosing olive oil over butter more often.
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Mashed Potatoes with Olive Oil and Herbs – A Light, Flavorful Side Dish
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Creamy and fluffy mashed potatoes made with olive oil instead of butter, infused with fresh herbs for a light, dairy-free side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth (or more as needed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot.
- Add olive oil, minced garlic, and a splash of vegetable broth.
- Mash until smooth, adding more broth as needed for desired consistency.
- Stir in parsley, thyme, and chives.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, drizzled with extra olive oil if desired.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, use Yukon Gold potatoes.
- Roast the garlic beforehand for a sweeter, mellow flavor.
- Can be made ahead and gently reheated with a splash of broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mashing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Every element in this recipe is chosen to create a balance of creamy texture and herbaceous flavor.
Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choice for this dish, as their naturally buttery texture results in smooth and creamy mashed potatoes.
Extra virgin olive oil replaces butter, adding a fruity, rich flavor while keeping the dish lighter and dairy-free.
Garlic infuses the potatoes with subtle aromatic depth, enhancing the earthy flavors without overpowering them.
Fresh rosemary contributes a piney, fragrant note that pairs beautifully with potatoes.
Fresh thyme adds a gentle herbal touch that balances the richness of the olive oil.
Parsley provides a bright, fresh finish and enhances the presentation with vibrant color.
Salt is essential for seasoning, drawing out the natural flavors of the potatoes.
Freshly ground black pepper delivers a warm, sharp bite that complements the herbs and olive oil.
Vegetable broth or reserved potato water ensures the mash remains silky, giving body to the potatoes without dairy.
Directions
Begin by peeling and chopping the potatoes into even-sized chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, then drain, reserving some of the cooking liquid if desired.
While the potatoes cook, gently warm olive oil in a small pan with minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Heat just enough to infuse the oil with flavor without browning the garlic. Remove from heat and let it rest.
Mash the hot potatoes using a masher or ricer until smooth. Slowly drizzle in the herb-infused olive oil while mashing, adding reserved cooking water or broth as needed to achieve a creamy consistency. Adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
Finish by folding in chopped parsley and serving warm. For extra flavor, drizzle with a final touch of olive oil and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 people as a side dish. Preparation and chopping require about 10 minutes, boiling takes 20 minutes, and mashing and finishing add another 10 minutes. In total, the dish can be ready in 40 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or olive oil to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to maintain texture.
Variations and Customizations
Lemon-Infused Potatoes
Add lemon zest and a squeeze of juice for a bright, zesty flavor that pairs well with fish or chicken.
Roasted Garlic Mash
Replace fresh garlic with slow-roasted garlic cloves for a sweeter, more mellow depth of flavor.
Spicy Herb Potatoes
Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili oil for a subtle heat that complements the herbs.
Truffle Mashed Potatoes
Drizzle with truffle oil instead of regular olive oil for an elevated, luxurious twist.
Mediterranean Style
Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and olives for a bold, savory version inspired by Mediterranean flavors.
Vegan Creamy Version
Add a splash of unsweetened almond milk or oat milk for extra creaminess while keeping it dairy-free.
FAQs
Can I use another type of potato?
Yes, Russet potatoes also work, though they create a fluffier rather than creamy texture.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional—keeping the skins adds texture and nutrients.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, prepare in advance and reheat with a little broth or olive oil before serving.
Is this dish vegan?
Yes, when made with vegetable broth, it is completely vegan.
Can I substitute dried herbs?
Yes, but use them sparingly as dried herbs have a stronger flavor than fresh.
How do I avoid gummy mashed potatoes?
Avoid over-mixing; mash just until smooth for the best texture.
Can I use flavored olive oil?
Yes, herb- or garlic-infused olive oils enhance the flavor beautifully.
What protein pairs best with this dish?
It pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or hearty vegetarian mains.
Can I freeze mashed potatoes?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may become grainy after thawing.
How do I make the mash extra creamy?
Add more olive oil or a splash of plant-based milk for additional richness.
Conclusion
Mashed Potatoes with Olive Oil and Herbs are a light, flavorful alternative to the traditional butter-heavy version. By highlighting the natural creaminess of Yukon Gold potatoes and enhancing them with aromatic herbs, this dish delivers comfort with a modern, health-conscious twist. Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, it can accompany a wide range of mains while standing out as a memorable side on its own. Whether you are cooking for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, these mashed potatoes are a nourishing, elegant, and satisfying choice that you will return to time and again.
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