Savory Fig & Goat Cheese Potato Bites
Elevate your appetizer game with these stunning Savory Fig & Goat Cheese Potato Bites. Perfectly crisped hash brown nests serve as the delightful base for a luxurious combination of creamy goat cheese, sweet fig preserves, and fresh spinach, all topped with crispy bacon. These quick and easy bites not only look impressive but are also a burst of flavor in every single bite. Perfect for any gathering, they’ll have your guests raving about your culinary skills, all while being simple enough for anyone to create. Whether it’s a holiday party or an intimate gathering, these savory nests are bound to steal the show.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Simply Potatoes® Shredded Hash Browns
20 ounces (Frozen, thawed)
Egg
1 large (Beaten)
Bacon
6-8 slices (Diced)
Fresh Spinach
3 cups (Chopped)
Goat Cheese
1/2 cup (Softened)
Fig Preserves
1/2 cup (N/A)
Salt
1 tablespoon (N/A)
Fresh Ground Pepper
2 teaspoons (N/A)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Fig & Goat Cheese Potato Bites?
They are an elegant appetizer consisting of crispy hash brown nests filled with creamy goat cheese, sweet fig preserves, fresh spinach, and topped with crispy bacon.
What kind of potatoes are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 20 ounces of Simply Potatoes Shredded Hash Browns, which should be frozen and then thawed before use.
What is the purpose of the egg in this recipe?
One large beaten egg is used to help bind the shredded hash browns together so they form a stable nest shape when baked.
How is the bacon prepared for these bites?
The bacon (6-8 slices) should be diced and cooked until crispy before being used as a topping.
Can I make these potato bites vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by simply omitting the bacon.
What type of cheese is recommended?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of softened goat cheese for a creamy and slightly tangy flavor.
How do I prepare the spinach for the filling?
You should use 3 cups of fresh spinach that has been finely chopped.
Is there a substitute for fig preserves?
If you cannot find fig preserves, apricot preserves or a balsamic glaze reduction can provide a similar sweet contrast.
Are these potato bites gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check the packaging of the shredded hash browns and fig preserves to ensure no cross-contamination.
Can I make these in a mini muffin tin?
Yes, a mini muffin tin is the ideal tool for shaping the hash browns into small, bite-sized nests.
How much salt and pepper is used?
The recipe suggests 1 tablespoon of salt and 2 teaspoons of fresh ground pepper to season the potato base.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of pre-packaged hash browns?
Yes, you can shred fresh potatoes, but be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a kitchen towel before mixing with the egg.
How should I store leftover potato bites?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
What is the best way to reheat them?
Reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to help the potato base regain its crispiness.
Are these bites suitable for a party?
Absolutely, they are classified as tapas and finger food, making them perfect for holiday parties or intimate gatherings.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients: hash browns, egg, bacon, spinach, goat cheese, fig preserves, salt, and pepper.
Do I need to cook the spinach before adding it?
No, the fresh chopped spinach can be added directly, as the residual heat or baking process will wilt it perfectly.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon is a great lower-fat alternative that still provides a smoky flavor.
Should the goat cheese be cold when assembling?
It is better to use softened goat cheese as it mixes more easily and spreads better into the nests.
What flavor profile can I expect?
You will experience a burst of savory from the bacon and potatoes, creaminess from the goat cheese, and sweetness from the fig preserves.
How difficult is this recipe to make?
The recipe is considered quick and easy, designed to look impressive without requiring advanced culinary skills.
Can I add other herbs?
Yes, fresh thyme or rosemary would complement the fig and goat cheese flavors beautifully.
Is it necessary to thaw the hash browns?
Yes, thawing is important so you can drain excess moisture and ensure the egg binds the potatoes properly.
Can I use a different type of cheese like Feta?
While goat cheese is recommended for its creaminess, crumbled feta can work, though it won't be as smooth.
What tags describe this dish?
It is tagged as an appetizer, tapas, potato bites, party food, and savory snack.
Can I make the nests in advance?
Yes, you can bake the potato nests ahead of time and fill them just before serving to keep the base crispy.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
There is no added granulated sugar, but the fig preserves contain natural and sometimes added sugars.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
You can, but make sure to thaw it and squeeze out all the water thoroughly to prevent the potato nests from getting soggy.
How many servings does this make?
While not specified, a 20oz bag of hash browns typically makes about 24 to 30 mini muffin-sized bites.
What is the best occasion for these?
They are perfect for holiday parties, cocktail hours, or as a sophisticated brunch side dish.