Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful? Look no further! This Idaho Gold Potatoes recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want a crowd-pleasing, homemade dish. Forget those bland, boiled potatoes – these golden beauties are roasted to perfection, boasting a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. This recipe is packed with simple ingredients, making it an ideal choice for beginner cooks while still offering delicious results that impress even seasoned chefs. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Idaho Gold potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the potatoes roast evenly and achieve that delightful crispiness.
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Prepare the potatoes: Wash and scrub the Idaho Gold potatoes thoroughly. Cutting them into uniform 1-inch cubes is crucial for even cooking.
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Season the potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potato cubes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning. This step is key to achieving maximum flavor.
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Roast the potatoes: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding; this helps them crisp up beautifully. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
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Garnish and serve: Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately. These potatoes are amazing as a side dish to any main course, from roasted chicken to grilled steak.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Idaho Gold Potatoes:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: This prevents steaming and ensures crispy potatoes. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- Use good quality olive oil: It adds flavor and helps the potatoes brown beautifully.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Rosemary, thyme, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can add interesting dimensions.
- Parboiling (optional): For extra fluffy interiors, consider parboiling the potatoes for 5-7 minutes before roasting. This reduces cooking time and ensures a perfectly cooked center.
Variations:
- Garlic and Herb Potatoes: Add a few cloves of minced fresh garlic to the seasoning mix for a stronger garlic flavor. Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Spicy Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Potatoes: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese or parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Serving size will depend on the number of potatoes used, but a typical serving will contain around:
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 3-4g
This delicious and healthy side dish is a wonderful addition to any meal. The simple preparation and customizable flavors make it a versatile recipe you'll want to add to your regular cooking rotation. Enjoy!