Hasselback potatoes: The ultimate side dish stealing the show

Potatoes are among the most popular dinner side dishes, often mistakenly considered bland. Hasselback potatoes with tomatoes, onions, and courgette quickly take centre stage and win the hearts of not only potato enthusiasts.

Hasselback Potatoes are an impressive and tasty dish that has gained popularity worldwide. Their name comes from the Swedish restaurant Hasselbacken, where they were served over 200 years ago. In the small, fan-like pockets created by the cuts, vegetables or bacon are placed and baked in the oven. They are an excellent addition to meats, fish, and even vegetarian dishes, where they can boldly play the main role.

They look very impressive, and every time they appear on the table, they create a "wow" effect. Their preparation is not complicated and does not require any special moulds, spirals, or accessories. It's a great way to diversify dinner or surprise friends with an unusual snack. Some people find them so tasty that they don't need any meat addition.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium potatoes,
• 1 tomato,
• 1 red onion,
• ½ small courgette.

Marinade:

• 80 millilitres of vegetable oil,
• 3 garlic cloves,
• 1 tablespoon Herbes de Provence,
• 1 teaspoon salt.

Step 1. Cut the courgette, onion, and tomato into fairly thin half-slices.

Step 2. Thoroughly scrub the potatoes. Place the potato on two sticks, for example, sushi sticks, and make cuts to create pockets. Be careful not to cut all the way through; the bottom should remain intact.

Step 3. Insert pieces of courgette, onion, and tomato into the cuts.

Step 4. Prepare the marinade. Pour the oil into a small bowl, add the garlic pressed through a garlic press, herbes de Provence, and salt, and mix thoroughly.

Step 5. Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Place the potatoes on it and brush with the prepared marinade - the easiest way is with a silicone brush. Place in an oven preheated to 180°C and bake for 40 minutes.

Step 6. Serve the baked potatoes as a side dish or a standalone snack with your favourite salad and garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy!