Baked potatoes with rosemary

Baked potatoes with rosemary are a classic and delicious side dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The rosemary adds a fragrant, earthy note that pairs beautifully with the crispy, golden skin of the baked potatoes. Here’s a simple recipe for making baked potatoes with rosemary:

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium russet potatoes (or any preferred variety)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2-3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1-2 tablespoons dried rosemary)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika or chili flakes for added flavor

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Prepare Potatoes:

    • Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel.
    • Cut the potatoes into evenly-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces) to ensure they cook evenly.
  3. Season Potatoes:

    • In a large bowl, toss the potato cubes with olive oil, chopped rosemary, minced garlic (if using), salt, and black pepper. If you’re using paprika or chili flakes, add them to the mix as well.
  4. Arrange for Baking:

    • Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. For best results, use a baking sheet with a rim or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  5. Bake:

    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Shake the baking sheet or toss the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
  6. Serve:

    • Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with a few extra sprigs of fresh rosemary if desired.

Tips:

  • Potato Type: Russet potatoes are great for baking due to their high starch content, but you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes if you prefer.
  • Crispier Potatoes: For extra crispiness, make sure the potatoes are spread out in a single layer and not overcrowded on the baking sheet.
  • Flavor Variations: Experiment with other herbs such as thyme or oregano, or add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for additional flavor.

These baked potatoes with rosemary are a perfect side dish for almost any meal and offer a satisfying, flavorful option that’s easy to make. Enjoy!