Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and clean the potatoes: Start by thoroughly washing the small potatoes. There’s no need to peel them since the skin helps add extra crispiness when roasted. Make sure to remove any dirt, and scrub the skins lightly.
Cut the potatoes: Depending on their size, you may want to cut larger small potatoes in half or quarters. Smaller potatoes can be left whole. Aim for uniform sizes so they roast evenly.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) to get it hot enough for the potatoes to become crispy.
Seasoning mix: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper, paprika, sweet chili flakes (optional), and a generous pinch of salt. Stir well to make sure everything is evenly mixed.
Coat the potatoes: Add the cut potatoes to the bowl and toss them with the seasoning mixture until all the potatoes are well coated with the flavorful oil. Ensure each potato is covered in the garlic, herbs, and spices for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Roast the Potatoes
Prepare the baking tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a small amount of olive oil to prevent the potatoes from sticking.
Spread the potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes on the tray in a single layer. Make sure they are spread out and not overcrowded; this allows the heat to circulate evenly and ensures the potatoes roast instead of steam.
Add rosemary: Sprinkle the chopped rosemary evenly over the potatoes. The rosemary will release its aroma as the potatoes roast, giving the dish a wonderful herbal flavor.
Roast the potatoes: Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for about 35-45 minutes. After about 20 minutes, take the tray out and use a spatula to flip the potatoes so they cook evenly on all sides. Roast them until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside while tender on the inside.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Add garnish: Once the potatoes are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant touch. You can also add an extra pinch of salt and pepper if needed.
Serve hot: Serve the crispy garlic-roasted potatoes immediately as a side dish to your favorite mains. These potatoes pair particularly well with grilled meats, baked fish, or even as part of a larger vegetarian meal.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximately)
Calories: 200 kcal
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 300mg
Potassium: 600mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary?
Absolutely! If you don’t have rosemary on hand, you can substitute it with other herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil. Fresh or dried herbs will work just fine.
2. Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, you can use Yukon gold, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes. Keep in mind that different varieties might take slightly different cooking times, so keep an eye on them as they roast.
3. Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the potatoes ahead of time and reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
4. How do I make them spicier?
For an extra kick, you can add more chili flakes or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
Tips for Making the Best Roasted Potatoes
Don’t skip the flipping: Make sure to flip the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure they roast evenly on all sides.
Choose small potatoes: Small potatoes are ideal for roasting as they cook quickly and develop a lovely crisp texture without becoming mushy.
Preheat the oven: Always make sure your oven is fully preheated before putting the potatoes in. A hot oven is key to getting that crispy outer layer.
Don’t overcrowd the tray: If the potatoes are too close together, they will steam instead of roast. Leave space between each piece for maximum crispiness.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration: Store any leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Freezing: While it’s possible to freeze roasted potatoes, their texture may become less crispy when reheated. If you want to freeze them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes.
Conclusion
Crispy Garlic-Roasted Potatoes with Herbs are an incredibly versatile dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The golden-brown, crispy texture on the outside combined with the tender interior makes them irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The addition of garlic, rosemary, and paprika brings a depth of flavor that turns a simple potato dish into something special. Best of all, these potatoes are made with wholesome ingredients that can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Enjoy this savory, comforting side dish, and watch it become a staple in your meal rotation!
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