Best 2 Potato Basil Purée Recipes

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Potato basil purée is a creamy and flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal. It's made with simple ingredients, like potatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil, and can be prepared in under an hour. This delightful dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion and adds a touch of elegance to any gathering.

Let's cook with our recipes!

POTATO BASIL PUREE



Potato Basil Puree image

Provided by Ina Garten

Categories     side-dish

Time 40m

Yield 4 to 5 servings

Number Of Ingredients 6

2 cups fresh basil leaves, lightly packed
2 pounds large Yukon Gold or white boiling potatoes
1 cup half-and-half
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and fill a bowl with ice water. Add the basil leaves to the boiling water and cook for exactly 15 seconds. Remove the basil with a slotted spoon and immediately plunge the leaves into the ice water to set the bright green color. Drain and set aside.
  • Peel the potatoes and cut them in quarters. Add the potatoes to the same pot of boiling water and return to a boil. Cook the potatoes for 20 to 25 minutes, until very tender. Drain well, return to the saucepan, and steam over low heat until any remaining water evaporates.
  • In a small saucepan over medium heat, heat the half-and-half and Parmesan cheese until the cream simmers. Place the basil in a food processor fitted with the steel blade and puree. Add the hot cream mixture and process until smooth.
  • With a handheld mixer with the beater attachment, beat the hot potatoes in the pot until they are broken up. Slowly add the hot basil cream, the salt, and pepper and beat until smooth. If the potatoes need to be reheated, cover and cook gently over low heat for a few minutes. Pour into a serving bowl, sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, season to taste, and serve hot.

POTATO BASIL PURéE



Potato Basil Purée image

Provided by Ina Garten

Categories     Dairy     Potato     Side     Thanksgiving     Quick & Easy     Parmesan     Basil     Fall     Winter     Christmas Eve     Vegetarian     Pescatarian     Wheat/Gluten-Free     Peanut Free     Tree Nut Free     Soy Free     No Sugar Added     Kosher

Yield Serves 4 to 5

Number Of Ingredients 6

2 cups fresh basil leaves, lightly packed
2 pounds large Yukon Gold or white boiling potatoes
1 cup half-and-half
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and fill a bowl with ice water. Add the basil leaves to the boiling water and cook for exactly 15 seconds. Remove the basil with a slotted spoon and immediately plunge the leaves into the ice water to set the bright green color. Drain and set aside.
  • Peel the potatoes and cut them in quarters. Add the potatoes to the same pot of boiling water and return to a boil. Cook the potatoes for 20 to 25 minutes, until very tender. Drain well, return to the sauce- pan, and steam over low heat until any remaining water evaporates.
  • In a small saucepan over medium heat, heat the half-and-half and Parmesan cheese until the cream simmers. Place the basil in a food processor fitted with the steel blade and purée. Add the hot cream mixture and process until smooth.
  • With a handheld mixer with the beater attachment, beat the hot potatoes in the pot until they are broken up. Slowly add the hot basil cream, the salt, and pepper and beat until smooth. If the potatoes need to be reheated, cover and cook gently over low heat for a few minutes. Pour into a serving bowl, sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, season to taste, and serve hot.

Tips:

  • To enhance the flavor of the potato-basil puree, utilize high-quality olive oil. Select extra virgin olive oil for its superior taste and aroma.
  • Freshly harvested basil imparts the most vibrant flavor to the puree. Pick basil leaves that are deep green and free of blemishes.
  • Garlic adds a savory dimension to the puree. Use fresh garlic cloves rather than pre-minced or powdered garlic for a more pronounced flavor.
  • Parmesan cheese contributes a salty, nutty flavor to the puree. Choose a high-quality Parmesan cheese that has been aged for at least 12 months.
  • Lemon juice adds a touch of brightness and acidity to the puree. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
  • Season the puree with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until the desired flavor is achieved.
  • Serve the puree warm or at room temperature. It can be used as a side dish or as a spread for sandwiches and crostini.

Conclusion:

This versatile potato-basil puree is a culinary delight that elevates any meal. Its creamy texture, vibrant green color, and aromatic basil flavor make it a favorite among food enthusiasts. Whether served as a side dish, a spread, or an ingredient in other dishes, this puree is sure to impress. With its ease of preparation and endless possibilities for pairing, the potato-basil puree deserves a prominent place in every home cook's repertoire. Experiment with different ingredients and techniques to create your own unique variations of this classic dish.

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