Ah, the humble potato—often overlooked, yet a true culinary hero. Imagine sinking your teeth into a crispy, golden exterior that gives way to a fluffy, tender center. These oven-roasted delights are the perfect sidekick for any meal, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or your latest attempt to recreate that fancy restaurant experience.
Steps
- Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. Scrub the potatoes thoroughly but do not peel them, and cut them into 1-inch cubes.
- If time permits, soak the cubed potatoes in cold water for up to an hour to remove excess starch, which will help achieve a fluffier texture. Once soaked, drain the potatoes and pat them dry.
- In a large bowl, toss the dried potato cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, chopped fresh herbs (or dried herbs if preferred), paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve the roasted potatoes as a versatile side dish, pairing well with grilled chicken, beef roast, or pork chops. Optional toppings include sour cream, chives, bacon bits, or cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of red potatoes, yellow potatoes, or Yukon gold potatoes
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary, parsley, thyme, or basil) or 2 teaspoons of dried herbs
- ½ teaspoon of paprika
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 588 | Carbohydrates: 96g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 16g | Sodium: 108mg | Potassium: 2748mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 40IU | Vitamin C: 52mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 4.4mg
FAQ
- What types of potatoes are best for roasting?
- You can roast any variety of potatoes, including red-skinned, russets, Yukon gold, and even sweet potatoes. Each type offers a unique flavor and texture, so feel free to use whichever you prefer.
- Should I peel the potatoes before roasting?
- Peeling is optional. Some people enjoy the added flavor and texture from the skin, especially with russet or Idaho potatoes. If using small potatoes, you can simply halve them or pierce them slightly to let steam escape.
- What is the ideal roasting temperature for potatoes?
- Roasting potatoes at 425°F typically yields the crispiest exterior and fluffiest interior. However, if you need to adjust for other dishes in the oven, you can roast at different temperatures, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
- Can leftover roasted potatoes be stored and reheated?
- Yes, leftovers can be reheated in a frying pan or oven. They also work well in dishes like frittatas or breakfast hashes.
- Is it possible to freeze roasted potatoes?
- Yes, roasted potatoes can be frozen. Store them in a freezer bag and reheat using an oven or frying pan for a convenient addition to meals.
Tips
- Soak the potato cubes in cold water for 15-20 minutes before roasting to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. Make sure to dry them thoroughly before adding oil and seasonings to ensure they roast properly.
- Use a combination of fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, thyme, or basil for more vibrant flavors. If fresh herbs are unavailable, substitute with 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs.
- Roasting at a higher temperature, such as 425°F, results in a crispier outside. However, you can adjust the temperature based on what else you’re cooking, keeping in mind that lower temperatures will require longer cooking times.
- Leftover roasted potatoes can be stored in the freezer. Reheat them in the oven or a frying pan for a quick addition to meals like breakfast hash or casseroles.
Equipment
- Baking sheet or roasting pan – For roasting the potatoes.
- Potato scrubber – To clean the potatoes thoroughly if you don’t already have a suitable brush.
- Chef’s knife – If you don’t have a good quality knife for dicing the potatoes.
- Large mixing bowl – Useful for soaking and tossing the potatoes with oil and seasonings.
- Silicone baking mat or parchment paper – To line the baking sheet for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
