Introduction
Roasted baby potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal, providing a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior, enhanced by the aromatic flavors of garlic and herbs. This simple recipe showcases how basic ingredients can come together to create a satisfyingly delicious dish, perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 kg (2 lb) baby potatoes, halved
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp cooking/kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
5 garlic cloves with skin on, smashed
5 thyme sprigs or 3 rosemary sprigs
Optional Garnish
Finely chopped parsley or fresh thyme
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Enjoy the perfect blend of crispy, golden baby potatoes kissed with the flavors of garlic and herbs, making them an irresistible side dish for any occasion.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This ensures that your potatoes will roast evenly and become crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic
Place the unpeeled garlic cloves on a cutting board. Using the side of a knife, press down firmly to smash them open slightly while keeping them mostly intact. This releases their flavor without fully peeling them.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
On a baking tray, combine the halved potatoes, extra virgin olive oil, cooking/kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss the potatoes to coat them evenly. Add the smashed garlic and thyme or rosemary sprigs, mixing them through the potatoes to distribute the flavors.
Step 4: Arrange Potatoes on Tray
Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on the tray. This helps them roast evenly, allowing each potato to get crispy.
Step 5: Initial Roasting
Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This will begin the cooking process and start browning the potatoes.
Step 6: Toss the Potatoes
Remove the tray from the oven and carefully toss the potatoes to ensure even cooking. If any potatoes are stuck to the tray, leave them; they will release naturally when ready.
Step 7: Continue Roasting
Return the tray to the oven and roast for an additional 25 to 35 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 8: Serve the Potatoes
Transfer the roasted potatoes to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle with finely chopped parsley or fresh thyme for an added touch. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
Potatoes
Choose small or baby potatoes for even cooking and a delightful presentation.
Seasoning
Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Herbs
Both thyme and rosemary work well in this recipe; you can choose either based on your preference or what you have available.
Garnishing
Chopped parsley or fresh thyme can enhance the dish’s presentation and freshness.
Cook techniques
Roasting
Roasting involves cooking food evenly in an oven, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender interior. This method is ideal for small potatoes, allowing them to caramelize and develop a rich flavor.
Smashing Garlic
Smashing garlic cloves with the side of a knife releases their essential oils and intensifies their flavor while keeping them in large pieces, which prevents them from burning during cooking.
Tossing Ingredients
Tossing ensures that all the ingredients are well coated with oil, salt, and pepper, promoting even cooking and flavor distribution throughout the dish.
Single Layer Cooking
Spreading the potatoes in a single layer on the baking tray allows for better air circulation, which helps achieve a crispy texture and prevents steaming.
Checking for Doneness
Tossing the potatoes during roasting helps check for doneness and encourages even browning. Leave any stuck potatoes in place; they will release naturally as they finish cooking.
FAQ
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use other small or medium-sized potatoes such as fingerling, red, or yellow potatoes.
What should I do if I don’t have fresh herbs?
If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use dried herbs as a substitute; just use a smaller amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How can I make these potatoes spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the potatoes for an extra kick.
Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
You can prepare the potatoes and season them ahead of time, then refrigerate them, and roast just before serving.
What can I serve with roasted potatoes?
Roasted potatoes pair well with meats, grilled vegetables, or as a side for salads. They are versatile and complement many dishes.
Conclusion
The roasted baby potatoes with garlic and herbs offer a delicious side dish that is both simple and full of flavor. The crispy exterior and tender interior, combined with the aromatic garlic and fresh herbs, make this recipe a delightful addition to any meal. Ideal for sharing, these potatoes are sure to impress family and friends alike.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Serve these roasted potatoes alongside grilled chicken or steak for a hearty dinner.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pair with a fresh salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a light and refreshing contrast.
More recipes suggestions and combination
These potatoes also make a great base for a loaded potato bowl topped with sour cream, cheese, and green onions.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Try adding other vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers to the roasting tray for a colorful and nutritious veggie medley.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For an Italian twist, sprinkle the roasted potatoes with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
