Whenever I ask my Jewish friends what’s on the menu for their Passover Seder, I always get similar responses: meat and potatoes. The dishes may vary, from brisket to a roast. From mashed potatoes to potato gratin. But chances are, these two staples are most likely on the menu. It makes a lot of sense, when you can’t have bread, potatoes are the obvious choice for a delicious starchy side.
I went through a period where I really didn’t like potatoes. I found mashed potatoes to just be a serving bowl for loads of butter. And no matter what I added to a baked potato, the end result was just a bit lackluster for me. French fries were really the only exception to my dislike for potatoes, for obvious reasons. But then my dad made this recipe a while back, and I was immediately smitten. I began trying mashed potatoes, (particularly when my dad makes them), and realized all the buttery goodness I was missing out on. My love for the universal root vegetable has grown and grown. How could I have ever hated on the wondrous potato?
Roasted potatoes are one of the easiest ways to cook potatoes. Cut them up, toss with some olive oil and throw them in the oven until they’re browned, crispy and delicious. Sometimes it doesn’t get any better. Be sure to make a little extra than necessary so you can fry them up the next day for some home fries for breakfast. Potatoes, I’m sorry I ever doubted you. I promise it’s all love and affection from now on.
Rosemary Roasted Potatoes
Adapted from Ina Garten
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds small red or white potatoes (or a mixture)
- 1/8 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, finely chopped
Recipe
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cut the potatoes into halves or quarters, depending on the size. Put the potatoes onto a baking sheet, and toss with the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic and rosemary until potatoes are well coated with the oil. Spread evenly into one layer.
Roast in the oven for at least one hour, flipping twice with a spatula or tongs to ensure even browning. Your potatoes will be done when they’re nice and brown and very crispy.
Remove potatoes from the oven and season with more salt and pepper to taste, and serve with rosemary sprigs for extra added color.
Cassie's Kitchen 