If you are looking for a vibrant, flavorful side dish that will brighten up any meal, the Roasted Purple Potatoes with Herbs and Garlic Recipe is an absolute game changer. These potatoes are roasted to perfection with a harmonious blend of aromatic herbs and zesty garlic, delivering a crispy exterior with a tender, buttery inside. Their naturally stunning purple hue makes them as beautiful on the plate as they are delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings both color and incredible flavor effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity and careful selection of ingredients. Each one plays an essential role, bringing texture, depth, and freshness that work harmoniously with the natural earthiness of purple potatoes.
- Purple potatoes (2 pounds, cut into 1-inch chunks): Their vibrant color and firm texture hold up beautifully to roasting.
- Garlic cloves (4, grated or minced): Offers an inviting aroma and savory depth to the dish.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps crisp the potatoes’ exterior while adding a smooth, fruity richness.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- Ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick to balance the herbal notes.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a warm, smoky undertone and beautiful color contrast.
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Adds an earthy, slightly minty herbal note that complements the potatoes.
- Dried oregano (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a touch of Mediterranean flair with aromatic freshness.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Provides a bright, grassy finish and a pop of green.
- Fresh basil (2 tablespoons, chopped): Introduces a sweet, peppery lift just before serving.
How to Make Roasted Purple Potatoes with Herbs and Garlic Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven to 400 Degrees F
The key to perfectly roasted potatoes is starting with a hot oven. Preheating to 400 degrees ensures the potatoes will develop that luscious golden-crisp crust while staying tender inside. This step sets the stage for a deliciously textured result.
Step 2: Toss the Potatoes with Garlic, Herbs, and Oil
In a large bowl, combine your cut purple potatoes with the grated garlic, olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Toss everything together until each piece is coated evenly. This allows all the flavors to marry and guarantees every bite bursts with savory herbal goodness.
Step 3: Arrange the Potatoes for Roasting
Spread the potatoes out skin side up in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a cast-iron skillet. Make sure none of the potatoes overlap — this is crucial for achieving that crisp texture on all sides without steaming.
Step 4: Roast Until Fork-Tender
Place the potatoes in the oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes. Check by piercing a chunk with a fork; it should slide in easily but still hold shape. This slow roasting softens the inside while building that irresistibly crispy outer layer.
Step 5: Broil for a Perfect Finish
Turn on the broiler for 3 minutes to add a final golden char. Keep a close eye to prevent burning – this step intensifies the flavors and adds a subtle smoky crunch that takes this Roasted Purple Potatoes with Herbs and Garlic Recipe to the next level.
Step 6: Garnish with Fresh Herbs and Serve Immediately
Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley and basil. These bright herbs infuse fresh aroma and a burst of color, giving you a visually appealing and perfectly balanced dish that’s ready to impress.
How to Serve Roasted Purple Potatoes with Herbs and Garlic Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley and basil elevate this dish wonderfully, but you can also sprinkle a little grated Parmesan or a drizzle of lemon juice for an extra zing. A light dusting of flaky sea salt just before serving can add a delightful crunch and flavor boost.
Side Dishes
These roasted purple potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a fresh salad. Their hearty yet delicate texture complements green vegetables like sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving these potatoes in a rustic cast-iron skillet right at the table. You can also combine them with crumbled feta and olives for a Mediterranean-inspired platter or layer them atop a bed of creamy polenta to wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover roasted purple potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They reheat beautifully and maintain much of their original texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save them longer, let the potatoes cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They’re best used within 1 month for optimal freshness.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a hot oven or toaster oven at 375 degrees for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to make roasted potatoes soggy.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of purple potatoes?
Absolutely! While purple potatoes bring unique color and a slightly different flavor, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well in this recipe and will deliver delicious results.
Do I have to use fresh herbs at the end?
Fresh herbs add brightness and a fresh finish, but if you don’t have them, a sprinkle of dried herbs will still taste great. Just add them earlier during the toss so their flavors can infuse the potatoes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Roasted Purple Potatoes with Herbs and Garlic Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I prepare it in advance?
You can toss the potatoes with oil and seasonings up to a day ahead and keep them refrigerated. Roast them fresh for the best texture and flavor.
What’s the secret to getting crispy roasted potatoes?
High oven heat, spacing the potatoes so they don’t overlap, and using enough olive oil to coat each piece well are the keys to achieving perfectly crispy roasted potatoes every time.
Final Thoughts
Give this Roasted Purple Potatoes with Herbs and Garlic Recipe a try the next time you want to add something special and colorful to your meal. The mix of herby aromas, garlicky warmth, and gorgeous purple color will easily make these roasted potatoes a new favorite in your kitchen. Once you taste them, you’ll see why they’ve earned a permanent spot in hearty dinners and casual weeknights alike.
Print
Roasted Purple Potatoes with Herbs and Garlic Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously tender and flavorful roasted purple potatoes infused with garlic and a blend of aromatic herbs, perfect as a vibrant side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds purple potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks
Seasonings & Herbs
- 4 garlic cloves, grated or minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius) to prepare for roasting the potatoes.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped purple potatoes, grated or minced garlic cloves, olive oil, kosher salt, ground black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Toss everything well to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasonings and oil.
- Arrange potatoes: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a large cast-iron skillet, ensuring the potatoes are placed skin side up and without overlapping for even roasting.
- Roast potatoes: Place the baking sheet or skillet in the oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and starting to brown.
- Broil for crispiness: Turn on the oven broiler and broil the potatoes for an additional 3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning, to give the potatoes a crispy, golden finish.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the potatoes from the oven, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley and basil on top, and serve immediately while hot and flavorful.
Notes
- Cut the potatoes uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Keep a close eye during the broiling step to prevent burning.
- For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the pan.
- You can substitute fresh herbs with 1 teaspoon each of dried parsley and basil if fresh is unavailable.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal.
