Roasting New Potatoes with Rosemary for a Flavorful and Nutritious Side Dish

There are many ways to prepare potatoes, each offering a unique flavor and experience. Among these, roasting with aromatic herbs like rosemary can elevate your meal to new heights. Today, we will explore how to prepare new potatoes with rosemary, a method that is not only delightful but also ensures a healthy and satisfying side dish.

Understanding the Difference Between New and Old Potatoes

New potatoes, also known as “new crop” potatoes, are harvested shortly after planted and are often available during the spring or early summer. These young potatoes are more tender, have a higher moisture content, and are usually smaller in size compared to older potatoes. Because of their delicate nature, they are best enjoyed roasted or steamed, capturing their natural sweetness and texture. On the other hand, older potatoes, which are harvested in the fall, have a firmer texture and are usually larger. These are often boiled or baked to bring out their distinctive flavor.

Why Roast New Potatoes with Rosemary?

Rosemary, with its distinctive piney and minty flavors, is the perfect herb to complement new potatoes. Roasting allows the potatoes to become crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, while the rosemary infuses a fragrant aroma into the dish. Here's how you can prepare this delightful side dish:

Ingredients and Tools Needed

1 pound new potatoes, washed and halved 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped Salt and pepper to taste Optional: additional flavorings such as garlic, lemon zest, or thyme A large oven dish or baking tray

Preparation Steps

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the halved new potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper. You can also add minced garlic or zest of a lemon for extra flavor. Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly in an oven dish or baking tray. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and slightly browned on the edges. Once done, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Steam Gentle Mint with New Potatoes

For a variation that still complements new potatoes well, you might consider steaming them gently with a little mint. This method is gentle and preserves the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Here's how to do it:

Ingredients and Tools Needed

1 pound new potatoes, washed and halved 1-2 sprigs of fresh mint, finely chopped A steam basket or a colander A pan with a lid or pot Water to create steam

Preparation Steps

Bring a small amount of water to a simmer in a pan or pot with a lid. Place the steam basket or colander over the water. Put the halved new potatoes on the steam basket, covering them with the chopped mint. Cover the pan and steam the potatoes for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender. Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the steam and serve immediately.

Par-boiling and Roasting Larger, Older Potatoes

While new potatoes are ideal for roasting or gentle steaming, larger and older potatoes may require a different preparation method. An excellent way to cook them is to par-boil them first and then roast them in the oven. This method ensures that the potatoes are fully cooked on the inside while achieving a crispy texture on the outside. Here are the steps:

Ingredients and Tools Needed

1 pound older potatoes, washed and cut into bite-sized pieces 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped Salt and pepper to taste A large pot for boiling and a baking dish for roasting

Preparation Steps

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cut potatoes and par-boil them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are slightly soft. Remove the potatoes from the boiling water and dry them with a paper towel. In a baking dish, toss the par-boiled potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Roast them in the preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and crispy. Serve the roasted potatoes warm.

Conclusion

No matter whether you choose to roast your new potatoes with rosemary or gently steam them with mint, these simple yet delicious methods enhance the natural flavors and textures of this versatile root vegetable. Roasting or steaming with herbs such as rosemary or mint not only adds a wonderful aromatic profile but also ensures a nutritious and wholesome side dish. Whether served alongside a main course or enjoyed on their own, these preparation methods are sure to please both your taste buds and your guests.