Roasted Pesto Potatoes

I have been cooking a lot of potatoes lately. This is due to the fact that my family loves potatoes and because I bought a bag of them from Costco. I’ve used potatoes in soups, but most of the time, I roast and serve them as a side dish. I love using potatoes because of their creamy texture and great taste. Roasting them with dried herbs (Ultimate roasted potatoes) is a great way to enjoy them. I found this recipe which simply roast them with olive oil, salt and pepper and then toss afterwards with pesto sauce and parmesan cheese. It looks irresistible so I decided to try them. The roasted potatoes with the pesto and parmesan cheese coatings were a visual delight and very tasty and flavorful as well. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfectly Roasted Potatoes

To get those perfectly roasted potatoes, start by choosing the right type. Yukon Gold and red potatoes are great options because they hold their shape well and have a lovely creamy texture. Cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Preheat your oven to a high temperature, around 425°F to 450°F, for that crispy exterior. Make sure to coat the potatoes evenly with olive oil. Too much oil can make them greasy, while too little can result in dryness. Stir them halfway through roasting to promote even browning. If you want that extra crunch, try parboiling the potatoes for about 5 to 7 minutes before roasting. This softens the insides and creates a fluffy center. Lastly, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give them enough space so they can roast rather than steam. Following these tips will ensure your roasted potatoes are golden brown and delicious every time.

Ingredient Notes

Using quality ingredients can elevate your roasted pesto potatoes. Fresh basil pesto will make a significant difference compared to jarred versions. If possible, make your own pesto using fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil. This way, you can control the flavor and freshness. For the cheese, freshly grated Parmesan is preferable over pre-grated options, which can have additives that affect flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a twist, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or roasted garlic to the pesto for a burst of flavor. As for seasoning, don’t hesitate to experiment with different dried herbs. Rosemary, thyme, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add depth to the dish. Keep an eye on the quality of your olive oil as well; a good extra virgin olive oil can enhance the overall taste of your roasted potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted pesto potatoes are versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. For a complete meal, serve them alongside grilled chicken or fish. The flavors of the pesto complement the proteins beautifully. If you’re going vegetarian, consider pairing them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a colorful plate. These potatoes also make a great addition to brunch. Serve them with poached or fried eggs on top for a hearty breakfast. If you have leftovers, they can be mixed into a frittata or used as a filling for a wrap. For a casual gathering, serve them as part of a potato bar, allowing guests to add extra toppings like feta cheese, olives, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This flexibility makes roasted pesto potatoes a fantastic choice for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What potatoes are best for roasting?

Yukon Gold and red potatoes are excellent choices. They hold their shape well and have a nice creamy texture that makes them perfect for roasting.

How should I store leftover roasted pesto potatoes?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven to help retain that crispy texture.

Can I make roasted pesto potatoes ahead of time?

You can parboil the potatoes a day in advance and then roast them right before serving. Just make sure to keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

What can I serve with roasted pesto potatoes?

These potatoes pair perfectly with grilled chicken, steak, or even a fresh salad. They make a great side dish for almost any meal.

What’s a common mistake when roasting potatoes?

One common mistake is overcrowding the baking sheet. This can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which means you won’t get that lovely crispy exterior.

Roasted Pesto Potatoes

Liza A

Roasted pesto potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, tossed in vibrant basil pesto and topped with melted Parmesan for a flavor explosion. Simple and satisfying, they make a tasty side for any meal.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

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• 2 lbs baby potatoes halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 2 tbsp basil pesto store bought or homemade
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 400° F (200° C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, coat the potatoes with the oil, pepper and salt.
• Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring once, or until potatoes are tender and light golden in colour.
• Place the potatoes back in the bowl you used before, and add the pesto and Parmesan cheese. Stir until evenly coated.
• Serve immediately.

Notes

Recipe source: The Little Potato Company

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 1g

Keyword comfort food, easy side dish, pesto, roasted potatoes, vegetarian

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