Recipe: Idaho Potato Pesto Bites

Idaho Potato Pesto Bites

2 pounds Idaho Potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg, beaten
1/3 cup prepared pesto
1 (8 ounce) package reduced fat cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup oil-packed, sun dried tomatoes, drained and finely chopped
1/2 cup sliced black olives, drained

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Coat the cups of 3 mini-muffin pans (36 cups) with cooking spray.

In a saucepan, in water to cover, over high heat, cook the potatoes about 15 minutes, or until fork-tender, but not mushy. Drain the potatoes, then mash or put them through a ricer. Stir in the salt and egg; set aside.

In a small bowl, using a fork, combine the pesto and softened cream cheese until blended.

Spoon a rounded tablespoon of potato mixture into each muffin cup, pressing the spoon against the bottom and sides of the cup to make a small impression in the middle. Spoon 1 teaspoon of pesto mixture into the impression of each cup.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Remove from the oven and top each cup with a small amount of chopped tomatoes and one olive slice for garnish. Return to the oven for 3 minutes more.

Serve hot or warm.

Servings: 8
Submitted by: Bonnie Cooper, Carrollton, GA
Source: Idaho Potato Commission.