A wonderful marriage exists when each partner, without self-interest, honors the unique and special traits of the other and lovingly supports them in becoming the best version of themselves. Witnessing a couple that embodies this dynamic always touches and motivates me, as they achieve so much more together than they could ever do separately. In my life, I have several friends whose marriages have embodied this principle for many years, and daily they spread joy to one another as well as to those around them.
In a somewhat indirect manner, this serves as an introduction to the union of ingredients in this recipe. Tomatoes and basil, chocolate and coffee, peas and mint are examples of ingredients that complement each other, and when combined in a recipe with affection, attention, and a hint of skill, they enhance one another while still preserving their own distinct flavors. Potatoes and rosemary form another such partnership, and in this straightforward recipe, they evoke the very best in each other. It’s an ideal side for grilled meats or fish and salad. You can easily adjust the amounts in this recipe to accommodate a larger gathering – it really just hinges on the size of your largest baking dish and your oven!
Ingredients: (serves 4 – 6)
- 8 medium red-skinned potatoes
- 1 tablespoon of high-quality olive oil
- sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
Preheat your oven to 180 C. Using a mandolin, slice the potatoes as thinly as possible. Place them in a medium glass bowl and submerge them in cold water. Allow them to soak for about 20 minutes, then drain and pat them dry with a tea towel. Remove the leaves from the rosemary and arrange them at the bottom of a 20 cm round or 18 cm square dish. This allows their earthy essence to infuse into the potatoes as they cook, helping to prevent burning and bitterness. Layer the potato slices tightly in the dish, as they will shrink a bit while cooking. Drizzle with olive oil and season liberally with sea salt and black pepper. Bake for 45 – 55 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crisp at the edges. Serve hot.
**Oven-Roasted Potatoes with Rosemary and Sea Salt: A Simple Yet Delicious Dish**
When it comes to comfort cuisine, few dishes can compare to the humble roasted potato. Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and full of flavor, roasted potatoes are a versatile side that can enhance any meal. Among the various renditions of this classic dish, one rises above for its straightforwardness and fragrant appeal: roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary and sea salt.
This blend of ingredients highlights the elegance of simplicity in cooking. With just a few pantry essentials and fresh herbs, you can create a dish that is both rustic and refined. Let’s explore what makes this recipe exceptional, how to prepare it, and why it should have a place at your table.
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### **The Charm of Rosemary and Sea Salt**
#### **Rosemary: The Herb of Sophistication**
Rosemary, with its pine-like fragrance and earthy taste, is a Mediterranean herb that pairs wonderfully with potatoes. Its strong and slightly spicy flavors complement the natural sweetness of the roasted potatoes, resulting in a delightful flavor balance. In addition to its taste, rosemary offers health benefits as it’s rich in antioxidants and possesses anti-inflammatory properties, making it a flavorful and nutritious component to your dish.
#### **Sea Salt: A Natural Flavor Enhancer**
Sea salt, derived from evaporated seawater, is valued for its pure, unrefined taste. Unlike standard table salt, sea salt contains trace minerals that enrich and diversify your dish’s flavors. Sprinkling it onto roasted potatoes enhances their natural goodness and adds a satisfying crunch. The coarse nature of sea salt also creates a lovely contrast to the tender interior of the potatoes.
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### **Selecting the Perfect Potatoes**
The type of potato you choose can significantly impact the final dish. For optimal results, select waxy or all-purpose potatoes such as Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or fingerlings. These types hold their form well while roasting and yield a creamy inside. While Russet potatoes are tasty, they tend to be starchier and may not crisp up as effectively.
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### **How to Prepare Roasted Potatoes with Rosemary and Sea Salt**
#### **Ingredients:**
– 2 pounds of potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal)
– 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 teaspoons of fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
– 1 teaspoon of sea salt (adjust as needed)
– ½ teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
– Optional: 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced or smashed
#### **Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). High heat is essential for achieving crispy potatoes.
2. **Prepare the Potatoes:**
Clean and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. If using small potatoes, keep them whole or cut them in half. For larger ones, chop into evenly sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
3. **Season the Potatoes:**
In a large mixing bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, sea salt, and black pepper. If you’re including garlic, add it for extra flavor.
4. **Arrange on a Baking Sheet:**
Lay the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Avoid overcrowding the potatoes, as this can hinder crisping.
5. **Roast to Perfection:**
Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, turning them halfway through for even browning. The potatoes are done when they are golden brown and fork-tender.
6. **Serve and Delight:**
Take the potatoes from the oven and let cool for a few moments. Top with an extra sprinkle of sea salt or a few sprigs of fresh rosemary for garnish. Serve hot as a side dish or snack.
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### **Tips for Perfectly Roasted Potatoes**
– **Use Quality Olive Oil:** A premium olive oil not only aids the potatoes in crisping but also imparts a subtle fruity taste.
– **Do Not Skimp on Preheating:** Beginning with a hot oven assures that the potatoes form a crispy exterior.
– **Turn for Even Cooking:** Flipping the potatoes halfway through ensures that every side browns nicely.
– **Get Creative with Add-Ins:** While rosemary and sea salt are classic, feel free to play with other herbs like thyme or parsley, or add a dash of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
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### **Pairing Recommendations**
Roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary and sea salt are incredibly adaptable and pair well with an array of dishes. Serve them with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked salmon for a fulfilling meal. They also pair nicely with vegetarian options like sautéed greens, lentil stew, or a fresh salad.