Potatoes with rosemary

Rosemary Potatoes - a simple and delicious recipe

If you are looking for a savory side dish that brings a touch of Mediterranean flavor to your plate, you have come to the right place! These rosemary potatoes are not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile, pairing perfectly with a variety of dishes.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 45-45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg potatoes (preferably new potatoes or cooking potatoes)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or a few fresh sprigs if you have them on hand)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste

A bit of history

The potato is a staple food in many cultures, originating in South America but quickly becoming popular worldwide. Baking potatoes with herbs like rosemary is an old tradition that adds flavor and aroma to dishes. Rosemary, in turn, is an aromatic plant valued not only for its taste but also for its nutritional benefits. It is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, having been used for centuries in traditional medicine.

Step by step to perfect potatoes

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes. Make sure to choose healthy potatoes, free of spots or imperfections. Once peeled, wash them well under cold water to remove any impurities.

2. Cutting the potatoes: Cut the potatoes into thick slices, about 2-3 cm. This thickness will ensure even cooking, resulting in crispy potatoes on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

3. Boiling the potatoes: Place the potato slices in a large pot with cold water and add a little salt. Boil them for 7-8 minutes, until they are slightly soft but not fully cooked. This is an essential technique that will help achieve a perfect texture during baking.

4. Seasoning: After draining the potatoes, transfer them to a large bowl. Add the olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Gently mix to ensure all slices are evenly coated with the seasonings.

5. Preparing the baking dish: Choose a baking dish large enough to allow the potatoes to lay in a single layer. Line it with parchment paper; a trick I use is to crumple the paper before placing it in the dish so that it fits the shape better.

6. Baking: Arrange the potatoes in the prepared dish and place them in the preheated oven at 200°C. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy. You can turn them once halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning.

7. Serving: Once the potatoes are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. You can serve them as a side dish with a juicy roast, or simply enjoy them as they are, perhaps with a yogurt or mayonnaise dip for added flavor.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the potatoes: New potatoes or cooking potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their texture. Avoid starchy potatoes, as they will not perform as well in the oven.
- Keeping them crispy: If you want even crispier potatoes, you can leave them in the oven for a few extra minutes, but be careful not to burn them.
- Flavor variations: You can customize your recipe by adding other herbs, such as thyme or oregano, or even chopped garlic for a more intense flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?
It is recommended to use fresh potatoes for the best texture and flavor. Frozen potatoes may not achieve the same crispiness.

2. What sauces go well with these potatoes?
Rosemary potatoes pair wonderfully with yogurt sauces, flavored mayonnaise, or a cheese sauce. You can also try a spicy sauce for an extra kick.

3. How can I make the recipe healthier?
If you want to reduce calories, you can use less olive oil or try steaming them, but baking will give them a unique flavor.

Delicious combinations:

These rosemary potatoes are excellent alongside meat roasts, baked fish, or even fresh salads that bring a contrast of textures. Don’t hesitate to serve them with a glass of white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Nutritional benefits:

Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy, while rosemary brings antioxidants and may aid digestion. This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for everyday meals.

In conclusion, rosemary potatoes are a simple yet sophisticated recipe that will enrich your meals with flavors and colors. Try this recipe today and enjoy the final result - a side dish that will surely become your favorite!