Roasted Red Potatoes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is accessible even to novice cooks.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, herbs, and a hint of white wine vinegar enhances the natural taste of red potatoes.
• Versatile: These potatoes pair well with a wide range of dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian entrees.
• Texture: Achieving a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior offers a delightful contrast in every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby red potatoes
• 3-4 cloves garlic, smashed and left whole
• 3 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
• Cracked black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon thyme
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Fresh dill, rosemary, thyme, or parsley, to garnish
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar, to garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Potatoes: If the baby red potatoes are small, slice them in half. For larger potatoes, quarter them to ensure even cooking.
3. Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the potatoes with olive oil, smashed garlic cloves, kosher salt, seasoning salt, cracked black pepper, thyme, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Toss until all potatoes are evenly coated.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the seasoned potatoes cut side down on a rimmed baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other to promote crispiness.
5. Roast: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the edges are crispy.
6. Garnish and Serve: After removing from the oven, toss the potatoes with fresh herbs of your choice and drizzle with white wine vinegar for an added flavor boost. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a cheesy crust.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil to customize the flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder to introduce a subtle heat to the dish.
• Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the seasoning mix for a refreshing citrus note.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place any leftover roasted potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed.

FAQs

How do I ensure my roasted red potatoes are crispy?

To achieve crispy roasted potatoes, ensure they are spaced out on the baking sheet without touching, allowing air to circulate and moisture to escape. Additionally, placing them cut side down promotes a crispier surface.

Can I use larger red potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, larger red potatoes can be used. Simply cut them into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking and optimal texture.

Is it necessary to peel the red potatoes before roasting?

No, the skins of red potatoes are thin and add a pleasant texture when roasted. Keeping the skins on also retains nutrients.

Can I prepare these potatoes in advance?

While roasted potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can parboil the cut potatoes for 7-9 minutes, drain, and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, season and roast them as directed.

What dips pair well with roasted red potatoes?

Roasted red potatoes pair excellently with dips such as aioli, tzatziki, ranch dressing, or a simple sour cream and chive mixture.

How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegan, as it uses plant-based ingredients like olive oil and herbs.

Can I cook these potatoes on the stovetop?

For stovetop preparation, sauté the seasoned potatoes in a large skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until they are crispy and cooked through.

What main courses complement roasted red potatoes?

Roasted red potatoes are versatile and complement a variety of main courses, including grilled chicken, roasted meats, fish, and vegetarian dishes like stuffed peppers or salads.

How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the baking sheet?

Using a high-quality non-stick baking sheet or lining the sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil can help prevent sticking.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, while red potatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes. Just ensure they are cut to a similar size for even cooking.

Conclusion

These roasted red potatoes are the perfect side dish to elevate any meal with their crispy edges, tender insides, and rich flavor. Whether you’re serving them with a hearty meat dish or a vegetarian entree, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and full of customizable options, this recipe is a staple that everyone will love!