Ingredients
1 head garlic
1/2 cup good-quality extra virgin olive oil, divided
3 pounds yellow-fleshed potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
1 cup reserved potato cooking water
2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins and Toppings: 1–2 scallions, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; extra drizzle of olive oil for serving
Instructions
- Roast the garlic: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice about 1/2 inch off the top of the garlic head to expose the cloves. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon olive oil, wrap tightly in foil, and roast for 35 minutes. Once cool, squeeze out the soft roasted garlic and mash with a fork.
- Cook the potatoes: Place peeled potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by 2 inches. Add 2 teaspoons salt. Bring to a boil and cook 12–15 minutes, until tender when pierced with a knife.
- Drain and dry: Reserve 1 cup of cooking water before draining. Return potatoes to the hot pot over medium heat and toss for 1–2 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Mash and season: Add roasted garlic and 6 tablespoons olive oil to the hot potatoes. Mash gently with a potato masher until combined. Gradually add reserved potato water, stirring until creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish and serve: Stir in optional scallions or parsley if desired. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with parsley sprigs. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use a potato ricer or hand masher for the fluffiest texture—avoid using a food processor to prevent gluey potatoes.
- Roasting the garlic adds a rich, mellow flavor that complements the olive oil perfectly.
- These mashed potatoes pair beautifully with roasts, turkey, or vegan shepherd’s pie.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days and reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boil
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
