Roasted Garlic Herb Potatoes

Imagine the aroma of garlic wafting through the air as these crispy roasted potatoes come out of the oven, perfectly golden and fragrant. This dish is a fantastic side offering that pairs beautifully with almost any main course.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or Red)
• 1 bulb of garlic
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, minced (for garnish, optional)
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional for a bright twist)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Prepare the Garlic: Take a bulb of garlic, cut off the top to expose the cloves. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top, wrap it in foil, and place it in the oven to roast for about 30-40 minutes until soft and caramelized.

3. Prep the Potatoes: While the garlic roasts, wash and halve the baby potatoes. You can keep the skins on for an earthy flavor!

4. Season the Potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved potatoes, olive oil, dried thyme, dried rosemary, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated.

5. Roast the Potatoes: Once the garlic is done roasting, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Squeeze the soft garlic cloves into the potatoes and toss again, ensuring the gooey goodness coats the potatoes. Spread the potatoes out on a baking sheet in a single layer.

6. Bake to Perfection: Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Give them a stir halfway through to ensure even browning.

7. Garnish and Serve: Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven and garnish with minced parsley and lemon zest, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Flavor Profile Explanation

This dish boasts a wonderful harmony of earthy and savory notes from garlic and herbs, complemented by the crispy texture of the potatoes. The roasted garlic adds a sweet, mellow richness, while the herbs elevate the overall aroma, making for a truly delightful experience.

Feel free to let me know if you’d like any modifications or additions to this recipe. Now, let’s get cooking!