Imagine a side dish so tantalizing that it steals the spotlight from the main course - these Lemon Garlic Baby Potatoes are that show-stopper! Bursting with zesty citrus notes, aromatic garlic, and perfectly crisp edges, this recipe transforms humble baby potatoes into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. Whether you're a home cook looking to elevate your meal or a food enthusiast seeking a simple yet spectacular side, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat the potatoes completely dry using clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- If the baby potatoes are larger, cut them in half to ensure even cooking and more surface area for seasoning. Leave smaller potatoes whole.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together to create a uniform marinade.
- Add the prepared potatoes to the bowl and toss them gently, ensuring each potato is evenly coated with the lemon-garlic mixture.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with additional olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting and crispy edges.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Check the potatoes for doneness by piercing them with a fork. They should be golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Remove from the oven and let the potatoes rest for 2-3 minutes. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or additional lemon zest for extra flavor.
- Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy the lemon garlic baby potatoes while they are hot and crispy.
Tips
- Drying is Key: Always thoroughly pat your potatoes dry before seasoning. Excess moisture prevents that coveted crispy exterior.
- Even Sizing Matter: Cut larger potatoes in half to ensure uniform cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- Don't Overcrowd: Spread potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting.
- Midway Flip: Turning the potatoes halfway through cooking guarantees beautiful, golden-brown color on all sides.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh garlic and freshly zested lemon for the most vibrant flavor profile.
- Optional Upgrade: Finish with fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives for an extra layer of freshness. Pro Tip: Let the potatoes rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the interior to become perfectly tender while maintaining that irresistible crispy exterior.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
