Citrus and Herb Roasted Potatoes bring a refreshing twist to the classic roasted potato dish. Infused with the bright flavors of citrus and aromatic herbs, this recipe is a delightful side that complements a wide range of main courses. Whether you’re preparing a festive meal or a simple weeknight dinner, these potatoes will add a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to your table. Inspired by authentic Greek cuisine, this dish combines the tanginess of lemon with the earthy taste of herbs, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Potatoes (preferably new potatoes) – 2 pounds, scrubbed and cut into halves or quarters
- Lemon Juice – 1/4 cup, freshly squeezed
- Olive Oil – 1/4 cup
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
- Fresh Rosemary – 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Fresh Thyme – 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Fresh Oregano – 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Salt – 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground
- Chicken Broth (optional for extra flavor) – 1/2 cup
- Lemon Zest – 1 teaspoon
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is key to getting that perfect golden-brown crust on your potatoes.
- Prepare the Potatoes: If you haven’t done so already, scrub the potatoes clean and cut them into halves or quarters, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Marinate the Potatoes: In a large bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Add the potatoes to the bowl and toss them until they are well coated with the marinade.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the marinated potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. For extra flavor, you can pour the chicken broth over the potatoes.
- Roast the Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Serve: Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and a sprinkle of sea salt if desired.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Soaking Potatoes: Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes before roasting. This helps to remove excess starch, resulting in crispier potatoes.
- Uniform Sizing: Cut the potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly.
- High Heat: Ensure your oven is properly preheated to a high temperature to achieve that perfect crispiness on the outside while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
Variations
- Greek Lemon Herb Potatoes: Add a bit of Greek seasoning or use Greek olive oil to give the dish a more authentic Greek flavor.
- Lemon and Herb Roasted New Potatoes: Use new potatoes for a sweeter and creamier texture.
- Cooking Classy Roasted Potatoes: For an upscale twist, drizzle the roasted potatoes with a balsamic glaze before serving.
- Gordon Ramsay’s Perfect Roast Potatoes: For an extra touch, parboil the potatoes for 10 minutes before roasting them. This technique, often used by chefs like Gordon Ramsay, helps achieve an extra crispy texture.
Nutritional Information
Basic Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 3g
Conclusion
Citrus and Herb Roasted Potatoes are a flavorful and versatile side dish that can enhance any meal. The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant herbs creates a unique and delightful taste that is sure to impress your family and guests. Whether you’re serving these potatoes with a hearty roast or a light fish dish, they are bound to be a hit.