Introduction
Lemon potatoes are a delightful dish that brings a zesty twist to a classic staple. This recipe, created by Jamie Oliver, combines the comforting texture of roasted potatoes with bright, tangy flavors from fresh lemon and herbs. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, these lemon potatoes are a perfect side for any meal, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 kg of new potatoes
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced
– 4 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
– A handful of fresh thyme leaves
– Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Prep Time
The preparation time for this dish is approximately 10 minutes. This quick prep allows you to get started on your delicious lemon potatoes without much fuss.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for the lemon potatoes is around 40 minutes, making the total time roughly 50 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it ideal for a small gathering or family meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut them into large chunks.
Boil the Potatoes
Place the potato chunks into a saucepan and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt, then bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes for about 10 minutes, or until just tender but still firm.
Drain and Dry
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and allow them to steam dry for a few minutes.
Prepare the Baking Tray
While the potatoes are drying, pour a generous amount of olive oil onto a baking tray, ensuring it’s well coated.
Toss the Potatoes
Add the dried potatoes to the baking tray and toss them in the oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Add Seasoning
Sprinkle salt, pepper, and the zest of a lemon over the potatoes. If desired, you can also add herbs like rosemary for extra flavor.
Cook in the Oven
Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on the baking tray and place the tray in the preheated oven. Roast for about 45 minutes or until they are golden and crispy.
Finish with Lemon Juice
Once the potatoes are done, take them out of the oven and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a zesty finish.
Serve
Serve the crispy lemon potatoes hot, garnished with additional herbs or lemon zest if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
Choosing Potatoes
For the best results, use waxy potatoes like new potatoes or baby potatoes, as they hold their shape well.
Oil Options
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor, but you can substitute with another cooking oil if preferred.
Herb Variations
Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Storage
Leftover roasted potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.
Cook techniques
Roasting
Roasting is a cooking technique that involves cooking food evenly in the oven at a high temperature. This helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful, ideal for potatoes.
Parboiling
Parboiling is the process of partially boiling food before finishing it by another cooking method. For potatoes, this technique helps to soften them slightly and ensures they cook evenly when roasted.
Seasoning
Proper seasoning enhances the flavor of your dish. Using herbs, spices, and citrus can elevate roasted potatoes, providing a tasty and aromatic profile.
Basting
Basting involves spooning or brushing juices or fats over food as it cooks, which helps to keep the surface moist and adds flavor. This is particularly effective for roasted potatoes.
Cutting Techniques
Uniform cutting ensures even cooking. When preparing potatoes for roasting, cutting them into similar-sized pieces allows them to cook at the same rate, promoting consistent doneness.
FAQ
Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various types of potatoes, but waxy potatoes like new potatoes or Yukon Golds work best for a creamy texture and flavor.
How can I make the potatoes extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, you can parboil the potatoes, then allow them to steam dry before roasting, which helps create a crispier exterior.
What herbs pair well with lemon potatoes?
Herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley complement the lemon flavor beautifully and can be added during roasting.
Can I prepare lemon potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can parboil and season the potatoes in advance. Just roast them when you are ready to serve for the best results.
What should I serve with lemon potatoes?
Lemon potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, fish, or a fresh salad, making them a versatile side dish.
Conclusion
The lemon potatoes recipe is a delightful way to infuse flavor into a classic dish. The combination of zesty lemon, garlic, and herbs enhances the potatoes, making them a perfect side for any meal. Simple yet elegant, these potatoes can elevate your dining experience with minimal effort.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Herb-Roasted Vegetables
Combine a variety of seasonal vegetables with olive oil, herbs, and lemon for a colorful and nutritious side dish.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Transform boiled potatoes into creamy garlic mashed potatoes, adding a touch of butter and cream for richness.
Potato and Spinach Frittata
Incorporate lemon potatoes into a frittata with fresh spinach and feta cheese for a tasty brunch option.
Crispy Potato Wedges
Season potato wedges with lemon zest, paprika, and garlic powder and bake until crispy for a flavorful snack.
Greek Salad
Pair lemon potatoes with a fresh Greek salad featuring olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean feast.