Accordion Baked Potatoes

Accordion baked potatoes (or Hasselback potatoes, named after the Swedish restaurant where they were first served) are a delicious and very visually striking dish. Here is the recipe to prepare them Italian-style:

Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized potatoes, preferably floury type
• 2-3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Aromatic herbs to taste (rosemary, thyme, oregano)
• Grated Parmesan (optional)
• Butter cut into small cubes (optional)

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 220 °C.
2. Wash and dry the potatoes. Slice them accordion-style, being careful not to cut all the way through: leave about 0.5 cm uncut at the base. You can help yourself by placing the potatoes between two kitchen spoons to avoid cutting all the way through.
3. In a bowl, mix the olive oil with the chopped garlic, chosen aromatic herbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the potatoes with the oil and herb mixture, making sure it penetrates well into the gaps.
5. If desired, insert the butter cubes between the potato slices and sprinkle with grated Parmesan.
6. Bake on a baking tray lined with parchment paper for about 60-70 minutes or until golden and crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
7. Serve the potatoes hot, perhaps with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.

Note that you can vary the aromatic herbs or add spices like paprika for a different flavor. Accordion potatoes are versatile and pair well with various side dishes and condiments.

Trivia

Hasselback potatoes can be considered an international dish with an Italian touch thanks to the use of extra-virgin olive oil, typically Mediterranean aromatic herbs, and Parmesan, one of the cheeses most representative of Italian cuisine.