Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes recipe

Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes. There’s something undeniably satisfying about a perfectly roasted potato. That golden-brown, crispy exterior giving way to a fluffy, tender interior – it’s a textural and flavor experience that’s hard to beat. But for me, it wasn’t until I discovered fingerling potatoes and the magic of roasting them that I truly understood the full potential of this humble vegetable. I remember the first time I made crispy roasted fingerling potatoes. I was hosting a small dinner party, and wanted a side dish that was both impressive and relatively effortless. I’d seen fingerling potatoes at the farmers market, their slender, elongated shapes intriguing, and decided to give them a try. The simplicity of the recipe was what initially drew me in – just potatoes, olive oil, herbs, and a hot oven. But the results? Absolutely transformative. They emerged from the oven gloriously golden and unbelievably crispy, each bite delivering a burst of savory, earthy potato flavor. My guests raved about them, and honestly, I couldn’t stop sneaking them straight off the baking sheet myself. Since that first batch, Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes have become a staple in my kitchen. They’re incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with everything from roasted chicken and steak to grilled fish and vegetarian mains. They’re also surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal prep work and yielding consistently delicious results. If you’re on a quest for the ultimate crispy roasted potato, and haven’t yet tried fingerlings, prepare to be converted. This recipe is a game-changer – simple, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a new favorite side dish in your own home.

Ingredients for Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes

The secret to truly exceptional Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes lies in the quality of the ingredients and the right balance of flavors. While the recipe is fundamentally simple, each component plays a crucial role in achieving that coveted crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need, along with tips for selecting the best ingredients:

• Fingerling Potatoes: 2 pounds fingerling potatoes, preferably a mix of colors (red, yellow, purple). Fingerling potatoes are the undisputed star of this recipe. Their naturally waxy texture, thin skin, and elongated shape make them ideal for roasting. Their smaller size also means they crisp up beautifully and cook relatively quickly. Opt for a mix of colors if available, as this adds visual appeal to the dish. Look for firm, smooth potatoes without any soft spots, sprouts, or green tinges. Different varieties of fingerling potatoes offer slightly different flavors and textures. Yellow fingerlings are often buttery and creamy, while red fingerlings can be slightly firmer and earthier. Purple fingerlings add a unique color and a slightly nutty flavor. Using a mix provides a more complex and interesting flavor profile. If you can only find one type, that’s perfectly fine – any fingerling potato will work wonderfully.
• Olive Oil: ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil is essential for roasting potatoes, contributing to both flavor and crispiness. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich flavor and healthy fats. It helps to coat the potatoes evenly, promoting browning and crisping in the oven. The olive oil also prevents the potatoes from drying out during roasting, ensuring a tender interior. You can also experiment with other oils like avocado oil or grapeseed oil, which have higher smoke points and neutral flavors, if preferred. However, olive oil imparts a classic roasted potato flavor that is hard to beat.
• Garlic: 4-5 cloves garlic, minced. Garlic is a flavor powerhouse that adds depth and aroma to roasted potatoes. Freshly minced garlic is highly recommended for its robust and pungent flavor. Mincing the garlic finely allows it to infuse the potatoes with its flavor as they roast. You can also roast whole garlic cloves alongside the potatoes for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor, squeezing the roasted garlic cloves over the potatoes at the end. For a more intense garlic flavor, consider using roasted garlic oil in addition to minced garlic.
• Fresh Rosemary: 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped. Fresh rosemary is a classic herb pairing with potatoes, adding a fragrant, piney, and slightly peppery flavor. Finely chopping the rosemary ensures it distributes evenly and releases its aroma during roasting. Dried rosemary can be used as a substitute if fresh rosemary is unavailable, but fresh rosemary provides a much brighter and more vibrant flavor. If using dried rosemary, use about 2 teaspoons and add it earlier in the cooking process to allow it to rehydrate and release its flavor. Other fresh herbs that pair well with roasted fingerling potatoes include thyme, sage, and oregano.
• Kosher Salt: 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, or to taste. Salt is crucial for seasoning potatoes and enhancing their natural flavor. Kosher salt is preferred for its larger crystals, which distribute more evenly and season the potatoes effectively. Adjust the amount of salt to your taste. Sea salt can also be used. Proper salting is essential for drawing out moisture from the potatoes, which contributes to a crispier exterior. Don’t be afraid to season generously – potatoes can absorb a good amount of salt.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste. Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent and aromatic spice that complements the rosemary and garlic beautifully. Freshly ground pepper offers a more complex and robust flavor compared to pre-ground pepper. Adjust the amount of pepper to your taste. You can also experiment with other types of pepper, such as white pepper or red pepper flakes, for different flavor nuances.
• Optional: Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving). Grated Parmesan cheese, added after roasting, provides a salty, savory, and umami finish that elevates the dish. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality. Pre-grated Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose and may not melt as smoothly. Parmesan cheese is optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor and richness. Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for Parmesan for a sharper, saltier flavor.
• Optional: Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish). Fresh parsley, chopped and sprinkled over the roasted potatoes at the end, adds a pop of color, freshness, and a mild herbaceous note. Fresh parsley is optional but adds a nice visual and flavor contrast to the rich roasted potatoes. Other fresh herbs like chives or dill can also be used for garnish.

Instructions for Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes

Achieving perfectly Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes is all about technique and attention to detail. While the ingredient list is simple, following these step-by-step instructions will ensure you get that coveted crispy exterior and fluffy interior every time. Here’s your guide to roasting fingerling potatoes to golden-brown perfection:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Ensure your oven is properly preheated to the correct temperature before placing the potatoes inside. This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy potatoes.
2. Wash and Dry Potatoes: Thoroughly wash the fingerling potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. You do not need to peel fingerling potatoes, as their thin skin becomes delightfully crispy during roasting and adds to the texture and nutritional value. After washing, pat the potatoes completely dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is essential for crisping.
3. Halve or Quarter Potatoes (if large): If your fingerling potatoes are particularly large, you may want to halve or quarter them lengthwise to ensure even cooking and crisping. Smaller potatoes can be left whole. Cutting larger potatoes into smaller pieces also increases the surface area, which promotes more crispiness. Aim for roughly uniform sizes so they cook at the same rate.

Step 2: Season and Toss with Oil and Seasonings

1. Combine Potatoes, Oil, Garlic, and Rosemary: In a large bowl, combine the prepared fingerling potatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped fresh rosemary.
2. Season Generously with Salt and Pepper: Add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to the bowl. Be generous with the seasoning, as potatoes can absorb a good amount of salt.
3. Toss to Coat Evenly: Toss all the ingredients together thoroughly with your hands or a spatula until the potatoes are evenly coated with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Ensure every potato piece is coated for even flavor and crisping.

Step 3: Roast the Fingerling Potatoes

1. Arrange Potatoes in a Single Layer: Spread the seasoned fingerling potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them, preventing them from becoming crispy. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure a single layer.
2. Roast in Preheated Oven: Place the baking sheet(s) in the preheated oven and roast for 25-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender on the inside and golden brown and crispy on the outside. Roasting time will vary depending on the size of the potatoes and your oven.
3. Flip and Toss Halfway Through: About halfway through the roasting time (around 15-20 minutes), remove the baking sheet from the oven and flip or toss the potatoes with a spatula. This ensures even browning and crisping on all sides. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for the remaining time.
4. Check for Doneness: To check for doneness, pierce a potato with a fork. It should be tender on the inside and easily pierced. The exterior should be golden brown and crispy. If the potatoes are not yet crispy enough, you can increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) for the last few minutes of roasting, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish (Optional)

1. Remove from Oven and Let Rest Briefly: Once the potatoes are roasted to your desired crispiness, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the potatoes rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This allows them to crisp up even further as they cool slightly.
2. Garnish (Optional): If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the hot roasted fingerling potatoes while they are still on the baking sheet. The heat will melt the cheese slightly. You can also garnish with fresh chopped parsley for added freshness and visual appeal.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes immediately while they are hot and at their crispiest. They are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Serve as a side dish with your favorite main course.

Nutrition Facts for Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is helpful for making informed dietary choices. Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, while incredibly delicious, also offer nutritional benefits. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition facts per serving:

Servings: 6 servings

Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving (estimated):

• Calories: 200-250 kcal
• Protein: 3-4g
• Fat: 10-12g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5-2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 7-8g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1-1.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 300-400mg (can vary based on added salt)
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
  • Fiber: 3-4g
  • Sugar: 2-3g

Key Nutritional Highlights (per serving):

• Good Source of Carbohydrates: Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy for the body.
• Source of Fiber: Fingerling potatoes, especially with their skin on, provide dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health, satiety, and regulating blood sugar levels.
• Potassium-Rich: Potatoes are a good source of potassium, an essential electrolyte that plays a role in blood pressure regulation, muscle function, and nerve signaling.
• Vitamin C: Potatoes contain vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.
• Relatively Low in Fat: When roasted with olive oil, fingerling potatoes are relatively low in fat, especially saturated fat. The fat primarily comes from healthy monounsaturated fats in olive oil.

Important Considerations:

• Serving Size: The nutrition facts are estimated based on a serving size of approximately 1 cup of roasted fingerling potatoes. Adjust portion sizes to meet your individual dietary needs.
• Olive Oil Contribution: The olive oil contributes to the fat and calorie content. Using a moderate amount of olive oil is important for achieving crispiness and flavor while keeping the dish relatively healthy.
• Sodium Content: The sodium content can vary depending on the amount of salt added. Using kosher salt and seasoning to taste allows you to control the sodium level.
• Overall Healthy Side Dish: Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, when prepared with olive oil and herbs, are a relatively healthy and nutritious side dish option, providing carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators or apps and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you used in your recipe. This will provide a more tailored nutritional profile based on your specific preparation.

Preparation Time for Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes

Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes are not only delicious and nutritious but also relatively quick and easy to prepare, making them a perfect side dish for weeknight meals or weekend gatherings. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate preparation and cooking times:

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
  • This includes washing and drying potatoes, halving or quartering larger potatoes (if needed), mincing garlic, chopping rosemary, and measuring out other ingredients.
  • Efficient knife skills and having ingredients readily available can help minimize prep time.
• Cook Time: 25-35 minutes
  • This is the oven roasting time, which is largely hands-off. You will need to flip or toss the potatoes halfway through.
  • Roasting time will vary depending on the size of the potatoes and your oven’s calibration.
• Total Time: Approximately 40-55 minutes

Time-Saving Tips:

• No Peeling Required: The fact that you don’t need to peel fingerling potatoes significantly reduces prep time.
• Simple Seasoning: The seasoning is straightforward and quick to assemble.
• Hands-Off Roasting: Once the potatoes are in the oven, the roasting process is mostly hands-off, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
• Prep Ahead (Partial): You can wash and cut the potatoes ahead of time (up to a few hours) and store them in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. Drain and dry them thoroughly before proceeding with seasoning and roasting.

Ideal for Weeknight Meals:

The reasonable preparation and cooking times make Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners. You can have a delicious and impressive side dish on the table in under an hour, even on busy evenings. The minimal hands-on time during roasting is particularly convenient, allowing you to prepare other components of your meal while the potatoes are in the oven. Their ease and speed make them a go-to side dish for any occasion.

How to Serve Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes

Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served in a multitude of ways, making them a welcome addition to almost any meal. Their savory, earthy flavor and crispy texture make them a delightful side dish or even a component of a larger dish. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

As a Side Dish:

• Pair with Main Courses:
  • Roasted Chicken or Turkey: A classic pairing, the crispy potatoes complement the savory roasted poultry beautifully.
  • Grilled Steak or Beef: The robust flavor of steak is enhanced by the earthy potatoes.
  • Roasted Pork Loin or Tenderloin: The potatoes provide a delicious textural contrast to tender pork.
  • Grilled or Baked Salmon or Fish: The potatoes are a versatile side for both rich and lighter fish dishes.
  • Vegetarian Mains: Serve alongside vegetarian dishes like lentil loaf, mushroom Wellington, or grilled halloumi for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
• Dipping Sauces:
  • Garlic Aioli: Creamy and garlicky aioli is a classic dipping sauce for roasted potatoes.
  • Spicy Mayo: Sriracha mayo or chipotle mayo adds a kick of heat.
  • Herb Yogurt Dip: A cooling yogurt dip with fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley.
  • Ketchup or Mustard: Simple and always crowd-pleasing.
  • Chimichurri Sauce: A vibrant and herbaceous Argentinian sauce for a zesty flavor.
• Garnishes:
  • Fresh Herbs: Extra fresh rosemary sprigs, chopped parsley, chives, or thyme for visual appeal and added aroma.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: For a salty and savory finish.
  • Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat.
  • Flaky Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the salty flavor and adds texture.

Beyond a Simple Side Dish:

• Potato Salad Variation: Use cooled Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes as a base for a unique potato salad. Toss with vinaigrette dressing, Dijon mustard, herbs, and your favorite potato salad additions.
• Breakfast Potatoes: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, omelets, or breakfast meats for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
• Salad Topping: Add crispy roasted fingerling potatoes to salads for added texture and flavor. They work particularly well in warm salads or hearty winter salads.
• Tacos or Bowls: Incorporate roasted fingerling potatoes into vegetarian tacos or grain bowls for a satisfying and flavorful component.
• Charcuterie Board Addition: Include roasted fingerling potatoes on a charcuterie or cheese board as a savory and satisfying element.

Presentation Tips:

• Rustic Platter: Arrange the roasted potatoes on a rustic wooden platter or serving dish for a casual and appealing presentation.
• Herb Sprigs: Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs or other herbs for a visually attractive and aromatic presentation.
• Serve Hot: Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes are best served hot and fresh out of the oven to maintain their crispiness.
• Bowl Presentation: Serve in a warmed serving bowl to help keep the potatoes warm for longer.

By exploring these diverse serving suggestions, you can discover the full potential of Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes and enjoy them in countless delicious ways.

Additional Tips for Extra Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes

While the basic recipe for Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes is already designed to yield delicious results, a few extra tips and techniques can help you achieve truly exceptional crispiness and flavor every single time. Here are five additional tips to take your roasted fingerling potatoes to the next level of perfection:

1. Soak the Potatoes (Optional but Recommended for Ultimate Crisp): For maximum crispiness, consider soaking the cut fingerling potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to an hour before roasting. Soaking helps to remove excess starch from the surface of the potatoes, which can hinder crisping. After soaking, drain the potatoes thoroughly and pat them completely dry with paper towels before tossing with oil and seasonings. This extra step makes a noticeable difference in achieving a super crispy exterior.
2. High Heat is Your Friend: Roasting at a high temperature (425°F/220°C) is crucial for achieving crispy potatoes. The high heat promotes rapid moisture evaporation and browning, leading to a crispy exterior. Ensure your oven is properly preheated to the correct temperature before placing the potatoes inside. For even crispier results, you can increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) for the last 5-10 minutes of roasting, watching carefully to prevent burning.
3. Don’t Skimp on the Oil (but Don’t Drench Either): Olive oil is essential for crispy roasted potatoes. It helps to coat the potatoes evenly, promoting browning and crisping. Don’t skimp on the oil, but also avoid drenching the potatoes in oil. The amount specified in the recipe (¼ cup for 2 pounds of potatoes) is usually sufficient. Ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with oil, but there shouldn’t be excess oil pooling in the baking sheet. Even coating is key for uniform crispiness.
4. Use a Large Baking Sheet and Don’t Overcrowd: Overcrowding the baking sheet is a common mistake that prevents potatoes from becoming crispy. When potatoes are crowded together, they steam instead of roasting, hindering browning and crisping. Use a large baking sheet and spread the potatoes in a single layer, ensuring there is some space between each potato piece for air circulation. If necessary, use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding. Proper spacing allows for even heat distribution and promotes crisping on all sides.
5. Flip or Toss Regularly During Roasting: Flipping or tossing the potatoes halfway through roasting (as indicated in the instructions) is important for achieving even browning and crisping on all sides. However, for even more consistent crispiness, consider flipping or tossing the potatoes more frequently, perhaps every 10-15 minutes during roasting. This ensures that all sides of the potatoes are exposed to the hot oven air and heat, resulting in uniformly crispy potatoes. Use a spatula to gently flip and toss the potatoes without breaking them.

By incorporating these additional tips into your roasting technique, you’ll be able to consistently create Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes that are truly exceptional – irresistibly crispy on the outside and perfectly fluffy on the inside, every single time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes

Do you have questions about making the best Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes? You’re not alone! Here are answers to five frequently asked questions to help you master this delicious side dish:

Q1: Can I use different types of potatoes besides fingerling potatoes?

A: While fingerling potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their waxy texture and thin skin, you can use other types of potatoes, but you may need to adjust the preparation and cooking method slightly. Good alternatives include:
* Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a buttery flavor and roast well. Cut them into similar sizes to fingerling potatoes (halves or quarters).
* Red Potatoes: Red potatoes are also waxy and hold their shape well during roasting. Cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
* Baby Potatoes: Baby potatoes are similar in size to fingerling potatoes and work well for roasting. You may still want to halve or quarter larger ones.

Q2: Can I add other vegetables to roast with the fingerling potatoes?

A: Yes, you can definitely roast other vegetables alongside fingerling potatoes to create a more complete side dish. Vegetables that roast well with potatoes and complement their flavor include:
* Onions or Shallots: Quartered onions or halved shallots add sweetness and savory flavor.
* Bell Peppers: Bell pepper strips add color and sweetness.
* Broccoli or Cauliflower Florets: Toss broccoli or cauliflower florets with olive oil and seasonings and roast alongside the potatoes.
* Carrots: Baby carrots or carrot sticks roast well and add sweetness.
* Asparagus: Add asparagus spears during the last 10-15 minutes of roasting, as they cook more quickly.

Q3: Can I prepare Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes ahead of time?

A: Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they are at their crispiest. However, you can prepare certain components ahead of time to save time on the day of cooking. You can wash and cut the potatoes in advance (up to a few hours) and store them in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. You can also mince the garlic and chop the rosemary ahead of time.

Q4: How do I store leftover Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes? How long will they last?

A: Store leftover Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow the potatoes to cool completely before refrigerating. Properly stored leftovers will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Q5: Can I make vegan Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes?

A: Yes, Crispy Roasted Fingerling Potatoes are naturally vegan when prepared with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper, as indicated in the basic recipe. Ensure you are using plant-based olive oil and seasonings. The recipe is already vegetarian and vegan-friendly. Omit the optional Parmesan cheese garnish to keep it vegan. You can enhance the vegan version by adding other plant-based toppings like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor

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