In honor of our potato class tonight at Hy-Vee, (Healthy Classic Potato Dishes: Surprisingly Delicious) I thought you might enjoy some ideas for creating an assortment of topping combinations. If you set each topping combination together as part of your potato bar, your guests (or family) will know how to combine to make their favorite masterpiece.
For The Potatoes
First, prick your potatoes with a fork or small paring knife - this will keep them from exploding in the oven. (Or at least that's what my Mom always told me.) Next, rub potatoes with a bit of canola oil, then place directly onto the center oven rack in a preheated 350 degree F. oven. Bake for about an hour or until very soft. Slit open lengthwise and squeeze together slightly, until flesh is protruding. Season flresh to taste with salt and pepper, then top as desired. Depending on which you choose, some are good popped back into the oven for a bit after you top them - such as Pizza Guy, Cheeseburger Classic, etc
Topping Combinations
Greek Goddess: Plain Greek yogurt, feta crumbles, sliced black olives, chopped cucumber and tomato
Pizza Guy: Turkey pepperoni, pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella, a sprinkle of oregano
BLT: Melted butter (optional), crumbled crispy bacon, chopped tomatoes and lettuce
Garlicky Bleu Cheeser: Light sour cream, freshly minced rosemary, crushed garlic or a sprinkle of granulated garlic, bleu cheese crumbles
Tex Mex: Cooked ground beef, pork or chicken seasoned with taco seasoning,adobo sauce, black beans, shredded Colby Jack, pico de gallo, and cilantro
Mediterranean: Spicy chickpeas, plain Greek yogurt, dash of cumin, turmeric, and garlic
Cheeseburger Classic: Cooked ground beef, pork or chicken, shredded American cheese, chopped onion, pickle relish, ketchup, and mustard
Little Italy: Cooked Italian sausage (turkey sausage, if you prefer), sliced, smothered with caramelized onions and bell peppers, shredded Parmesan or Romano
Now You're Cookin',
Chef Alli