Baked New Potatoes with Herbs

Baked new potatoes with herbs is a delightful and simple dish that celebrates the earthy flavor of young potatoes still in their skins. These small potatoes are boiled briefly and then baked to achieve a crispy outer layer, enhancing their natural taste with olive oil and sea salt. The savory aroma wafting from the oven creates an inviting atmosphere, making this dish perfect for any gathering or familial meal. Freshly chopped herbs add a burst of color and a fragrant finish that captivates your senses. With minimal ingredients and effort, you'll achieve a dish that's both rustic and elegant. Ideal for those who enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience, this recipe embraces simplicity without compromising on flavor. Whether served as a side or a main dish, the potatoes offer a satisfying crunch and a warm, fluffy interior. It's a versatile recipe that pairs wonderfully with various main courses. Perfect for all seasons, it capitalizes on nature's bounty for a taste that feels fresh and wholesome.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

15 small new potatoes, unpeeled
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Sea salt
Water
Fresh herbs (choice of dill, parsley, or chives)

Preparation Time

Total Time: 45 minutes (Prep: 5 minutes, Cook: 40 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Potatoes: Rinse the new potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Keep their skins intact for extra texture and flavor.
Boil: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of sea salt to season the potatoes as they cook.
Simmer: Place the potatoes in the boiling water. Let them simmer for about 10 minutes until they are tender but not falling apart.
Drain and Dry: Once boiled, drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander and let them sit for a few minutes to dry and cool slightly.
Preheat Oven: Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
Oil and Season: Transfer the potatoes to a baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over them and sprinkle generously with sea salt.
Toss Together: Gently toss the potatoes to ensure they are evenly coated with oil and salt. Space them out on the baking sheet for even roasting.
Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for approximately 20 minutes or until the skin becomes crispy and golden.
Check Readiness: After the initial 20 minutes, check for desired crispiness. If needed, extend the roasting time by a few minutes.
Chop Herbs: While the potatoes roast, finely chop your choice of fresh herbs. This will add a fresh, aromatic element to the dish.
Final Touch: Once the potatoes are perfectly crisped, remove them from the oven. Immediately sprinkle with the chopped herbs.
Serve Warm: Transfer the baked potatoes to a serving platter. Ensure to present them with the crisp side up for maximum appeal.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust with more salt if necessary before serving.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Reheating: Reheat in a hot oven to preserve the crispy skin texture before serving again.
Serving Size: This recipe serves about four people as a side dish.
Enjoy: Delight in the simplicity and flavor of these beautifully baked new potatoes.
Pairings: Suggested pairings include roasted meats, fish, or a fresh garden salad.
Wine Recommendation: Consider a glass of crisp white wine or light beer to complement the rustic flavors.
Bon Appétit: Serve hot and enjoy your creation with family and friends.

Tips

Potato Selection: Choose firm and evenly sized new potatoes for uniform cooking.
Herb Options: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme for variety.
Crispier Potatoes: Turn the potatoes halfway through roasting for an even crisp.
Olive Oil Substitution: Use other oils like avocado oil for slightly different flavors.
Keep It Fresh: Consider sprinkling lemon zest alongside herbs for a citrusy finish.

Nutrition

Calories: About 150 per serving
Protein: 2g
Fats: 5g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 3g

Variations

Vegan Version: This recipe is naturally vegan, focusing on plant-based ingredients.
Spicy Variation: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a spicier version.
Cheesy Addition: Grate some parmesan over the hot potatoes before serving for a cheesy touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.
Pair with a fresh green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette.
Garnish with additional fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Best Places

The Potato House - Offers a rustic feel with a focus on organic produce. Location: 123 Farm Lane, London, UK.
Herb & Root - Known for its seasonal ingredient pairings and creative presentations. Location: 45 Greenway Street, Melbourne, Australia.
Spud & Sprout - A modern take on traditional potato dishes, emphasizing farm-to-table concepts. Location: 10 Urban Blvd, New York City, USA.
The Crispy Bites - Specializes in crispy new potatoes with gourmet dips. Location: 88 Crisp Street, Toronto, Canada.
Roots & Stems - Highlights locally sourced potatoes with a unique twist. Location: 5 Garden Path, Dublin, Ireland.
Terra Bistro - Offers an elegant dining experience focusing on natural flavors. Location: 12 Earth Lane, Paris, France.
Nature's Plate - Concentrates on plant-based meals with global flavors. Location: 22 Veggie Road, Berlin, Germany.
Simply Baked - Celebrated for its simple yet sophisticated potato offerings. Location: 30 Rustic Avenue, Rome, Italy.
The Root Cellar - Combines traditional recipes with modern techniques. Location: 99 Historic Route, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Spiced Earth - Incorporates spices from around the world to elevate classic potato dishes. Location: 77 Flavor Street, Cape Town, South Africa.