Roasted baby potatoes, known as “patate al forno” in Italian, are a cherished side dish that finds its roots in the heart of Italy’s rich culinary traditions. Celebrated for their crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors, these potatoes are a staple at both family dinners and festive gatherings. This recipe for Crispy Italian Style Roasted Baby Potatoes brings the essence of Italian cooking into your kitchen, combining simplicity with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds of baby potatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 teaspoons of sea salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest of one lemon
Instructions
Preparing the Potatoes
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C), allowing it to fully heat while you prepare the potatoes.
- Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the halved baby potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes after the water returns to a boil. Drain well.
- Season: Toss the parboiled potatoes in a mixing bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary to coat evenly.
Roasting
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow them to crisp up properly.
- Bake: Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden and crispy. Halfway through, gently flip them to ensure even browning.
- Finishing Touches: Sprinkle grated Parmesan and lemon zest over the hot potatoes right before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Keeping Them Crispy: To keep the roast potatoes crispy, do not cover them after cooking; this traps steam and softens the crust.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano, or add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Substitutions: For a vegan version, skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 200 per serving
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 470mg
Conclusion
Crispy Italian Style Roasted Baby Potatoes are not just delicious; they’re a joyful reminder of simple ingredients coming together to create something wonderfully satisfying. Try this recipe for your next family meal or special occasion and share your experiences. Whether you follow the recipe as is or add your own twist, these potatoes are sure to impress.