Are you looking for a simple yet delicious side dish that everyone will love? Look no further! New potatoes roasted in the oven are a fantastic choice, and the BBC Good Food recipe is a reliable and tasty way to prepare them. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know to make perfect roasted new potatoes every time. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this guide will provide you with all the tips and tricks for achieving golden, crispy, and flavorful potatoes that will complement any meal. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to roasting new potatoes like a pro!

Why Choose Roasted New Potatoes?

New potatoes, also known as baby potatoes, are young potatoes harvested before they fully mature. This early harvest gives them a unique set of characteristics that make them ideal for roasting. Here are a few reasons why roasted new potatoes are a great addition to your menu:

• Delicate Flavor: New potatoes have a subtly sweet and fresh flavor that is less starchy than mature potatoes. Roasting enhances this natural sweetness, making them incredibly palatable.
• Thin Skin: Unlike older potatoes with thick skins, new potatoes have a thin, delicate skin that doesn't need to be peeled. This saves you time and effort in the kitchen, and the skin adds a pleasant texture and nutritional value to the dish. Leaving the skin on also helps the potatoes retain moisture during roasting, resulting in a creamier interior.
• Creamy Texture: When roasted, the inside of new potatoes becomes wonderfully creamy, providing a delightful contrast to the crispy exterior. This textural contrast is one of the key reasons why roasted new potatoes are so satisfying.
• Quick Cooking Time: Due to their small size and high moisture content, new potatoes cook relatively quickly in the oven. This makes them a convenient option for weeknight dinners or when you need a side dish in a hurry.
• Versatility: Roasted new potatoes can be seasoned in countless ways to suit your taste preferences. From simple herbs and spices to more elaborate flavor combinations, the possibilities are endless. They pair well with a wide variety of main courses, making them a versatile addition to any meal.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make delicious roasted new potatoes, you'll need just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what the BBC Good Food recipe typically calls for:

• New Potatoes: Choose potatoes that are roughly the same size to ensure even cooking. About 1.5 lbs (700g) of new potatoes should be sufficient for 4-6 servings.
• Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil is essential for achieving that crispy, golden exterior. You’ll need about 2-3 tablespoons.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasoning is often the best. Use sea salt for a more intense flavor and freshly ground black pepper.
• Optional Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs can add an extra layer of flavor. Rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder are all excellent choices. A tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs or a teaspoon of dried herbs should be enough.
• Garlic: A few cloves of garlic, either minced or crushed, can add a wonderful aroma and flavor to the potatoes. About 2-3 cloves should do the trick.

Make sure your ingredients are fresh and of good quality. The better the ingredients, the better your roasted new potatoes will taste!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create perfect roasted new potatoes using the BBC Good Food method:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the potatoes will cook evenly and develop a nice, crispy exterior.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash the new potatoes thoroughly. Since their skin is thin and edible, there's no need to peel them. If the potatoes are larger, you can cut them in half or quarters to ensure they cook evenly.
3. Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and any herbs or garlic you're using. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This is crucial for achieving a flavorful and crispy result.
4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the potatoes to steam instead of roast. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure even spacing.
5. Roast the Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and tender. Flip the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. You can test for doneness by piercing a potato with a fork; it should be easy to insert and remove.
6. Serve: Once the potatoes are cooked through and golden brown, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Roasted new potatoes are delicious on their own or as a side dish to your favorite meal.

Tips for Perfect Roasted New Potatoes

To ensure your roasted new potatoes turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Select new potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free from blemishes. Potatoes of similar size will cook more evenly.
• Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the baking sheet can lead to steamed, rather than roasted, potatoes. Make sure to spread the potatoes in a single layer with enough space between them.
• Use Enough Oil: Olive oil is essential for achieving a crispy exterior. Don't be afraid to use a generous amount to coat the potatoes evenly.
• Season Generously: Don't skimp on the salt, pepper, and herbs. Proper seasoning is key to flavorful roasted potatoes.
• Flip Halfway Through: Flipping the potatoes halfway through cooking ensures they brown evenly on all sides.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your potatoes and the accuracy of your oven. Keep an eye on the potatoes and adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Experiment with Flavors: Get creative with your seasoning. Try adding different herbs, spices, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of flavor.

Flavor Variations

One of the best things about roasted new potatoes is their versatility. Here are a few flavor variations to try:

• Garlic and Rosemary: Add minced garlic and fresh rosemary sprigs to the potatoes before roasting for a classic and aromatic flavor combination.
• Lemon and Herb: Toss the roasted potatoes with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a mix of chopped herbs like parsley, dill, and chives for a bright and refreshing flavor.
• Spicy Paprika: Add a pinch of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder to the potatoes for a smoky and spicy kick.
• Parmesan and Black Pepper: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper over the potatoes during the last few minutes of roasting for a savory and cheesy twist.
• Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle the roasted potatoes with a balsamic glaze after cooking for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Roasted new potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a wide variety of main courses. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Grilled Meats: Serve roasted new potatoes alongside grilled steak, chicken, or lamb for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Roasted Chicken: Roasted new potatoes are a natural complement to roasted chicken, providing a delicious and comforting combination.
• Fish: Pair roasted new potatoes with baked or pan-fried fish for a lighter and healthier meal.
• Vegetarian Dishes: Serve roasted new potatoes as a side dish to vegetarian entrees like lentil loaf, vegetable skewers, or stuffed bell peppers.
• Salads: Add roasted new potatoes to salads for a boost of flavor and texture. They work especially well in warm potato salads with vinaigrette dressing.

Nutritional Benefits

New potatoes are not only delicious but also offer several nutritional benefits. They are a good source of:

• Vitamin C: An antioxidant that supports immune function and helps protect against cell damage.
• Vitamin B6: Important for brain development and function, as well as the production of red blood cells.
• Potassium: An essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.
• Fiber: Promotes healthy digestion and helps you feel full and satisfied.
• Complex Carbohydrates: Provide sustained energy and help regulate blood sugar levels.

When roasted with olive oil, new potatoes also provide healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health. However, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes, as potatoes are relatively high in carbohydrates.

Conclusion

Roasted new potatoes, inspired by BBC Good Food, are a simple, delicious, and versatile side dish that's perfect for any occasion. With their delicate flavor, creamy texture, and crispy exterior, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. By following the step-by-step instructions and tips outlined in this guide, you can achieve perfect roasted new potatoes every time. So go ahead, grab some fresh new potatoes, and get roasting! Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of this classic dish.