Hey guys! Are you looking for a simple yet delicious side dish that will impress everyone? Look no further! This recipe for roasted new potatoes, inspired by BBC Good Food, is a total game-changer. These aren't just any potatoes; we're talking about perfectly crisp outsides and fluffy insides, seasoned to perfection. Whether you're grilling burgers, roasting a chicken, or just craving some comforting carbs, these new potatoes are the answer.

Why New Potatoes?

So, what makes new potatoes so special? Unlike their mature counterparts, new potatoes are harvested early in the season, which gives them a delicate, slightly sweet flavor and a wonderfully creamy texture. Their thin skin means you don't even need to peel them – saving you time and effort in the kitchen! Roasting them in the oven brings out their natural sweetness and creates that irresistible crispy exterior we all crave.

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let's gather our ingredients. Here's what you'll need to make these amazing roasted new potatoes:

• 1 kg new potatoes, washed and halved (or quartered if large)
• 2-3 tbsp olive oil
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, but highly recommended!)
• 1 tsp dried rosemary (or 1 tbsp fresh, chopped)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor

Getting Started: Prep is Key

First things first, preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/Gas Mark 6). While the oven is heating up, give your new potatoes a good wash. There's no need to peel them, but if they're particularly dirty, you can give them a scrub with a vegetable brush. Once they're clean, halve or quarter them depending on their size. You want them to be roughly the same size so they cook evenly.

Next, in a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic (if using), rosemary, salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are well coated with the oil and seasonings. This is where the magic happens, so don't be shy! If you're feeling adventurous, add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky kick.

Roasting to Perfection

Now it's time to roast! Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking tray. Avoid overcrowding the tray, as this will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking trays. Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Give them a shake or a flip halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These roasted new potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served with just about anything. Here are a few ideas:

• As a side dish to grilled meats or fish
• With roasted chicken or vegetables
• In a salad with a vinaigrette dressing
• As a snack with a dollop of sour cream or aioli

Tips for the Best Roasted New Potatoes

Want to take your roasted new potatoes to the next level? Here are a few tips to help you achieve potato perfection:

• Don't overcrowd the baking tray: This is the most important tip! Overcrowding will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them, resulting in soggy potatoes. Make sure to spread them in a single layer with enough space between each potato.
• Use enough oil: Olive oil is essential for achieving crispy potatoes. Don't be afraid to use a generous amount.
• Season generously: Salt and pepper are your friends! Season the potatoes well to bring out their natural flavor.
• Preheat the oven: Make sure your oven is properly preheated before you put the potatoes in. This will help them crisp up quickly.
• Don't be afraid to experiment: Feel free to add your own favorite herbs and spices to the potatoes. Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika are all great options.

Variations on a Theme

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own signature roasted new potatoes. Here are a few ideas:

• Garlic and Herb: Add extra garlic and your favorite fresh herbs, such as thyme, oregano, or parsley.
• Lemon and Parmesan: Toss the roasted potatoes with lemon zest, grated Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Balsamic Glazed: Drizzle the roasted potatoes with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Health Benefits of New Potatoes

Besides being incredibly delicious, new potatoes also offer a range of health benefits. They are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect your body against damage from free radicals. Potassium is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure. And fiber helps keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can aid in weight management.

Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal

Okay, so you've got your perfect roasted new potatoes. Now, what do you serve them with? Here are a few ideas to create a complete and satisfying meal:

• Grilled Salmon: The crispy potatoes pair beautifully with the richness of grilled salmon.
• Roasted Chicken: A classic combination! The potatoes soak up all the delicious chicken juices.
• Vegetarian Skewers: Thread colorful vegetables onto skewers and grill them for a vibrant and healthy meal.
• Steak: For a more indulgent meal, serve the potatoes with a juicy steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is super simple, there are a few common mistakes that can prevent you from achieving potato perfection. Here's what to watch out for:

• Using old potatoes: New potatoes have a delicate flavor and creamy texture that you won't get with older potatoes. Make sure to use fresh, new potatoes for the best results.
• Not using enough oil: Oil is essential for achieving crispy potatoes. Don't be afraid to use a generous amount.
• Overcrowding the baking tray: This is the most common mistake! Overcrowding will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them. Make sure to spread them in a single layer with enough space between each potato.
• Not seasoning properly: Salt and pepper are your friends! Season the potatoes well to bring out their natural flavor.

Perfecting Your Potato Game: Expert Tips

Ready to become a roasted new potato pro? Here are some expert tips to help you elevate your potato game:

• Soak the potatoes: Soaking the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before roasting can help remove excess starch, resulting in crispier potatoes.
• Parboil the potatoes: Parboiling the potatoes for a few minutes before roasting can also help them cook more evenly and crisp up better.
• Use a high-quality olive oil: The flavor of the olive oil will affect the flavor of the potatoes, so choose a good quality olive oil that you enjoy.
• Use a convection oven: If you have a convection oven, use it! Convection ovens circulate hot air around the food, resulting in faster and more even cooking.
• Experiment with different seasonings: Don't be afraid to get creative with your seasonings! Try adding different herbs, spices, or even a sprinkle of cheese.

Roasted New Potatoes: The BBC Good Food Way

This recipe is inspired by the wonderful recipes found on BBC Good Food, known for their reliable and delicious culinary creations. By following these simple steps and using fresh, quality ingredients, you can create a side dish that will impress your family and friends. So, go ahead and give it a try! You won't be disappointed.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Potatoes!

So there you have it, guys! Everything you need to know to make the best roasted new potatoes ever. They're easy to make, incredibly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're serving them as a side dish, adding them to a salad, or just snacking on them straight from the oven, these potatoes are sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!