Small red potatoes are a versatile and nutritious side dish that can complement any meal. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or just looking for a tasty and simple weeknight dinner, cooking small red potatoes in the oven is a delicious and easy option.

The vibrant red skin and tender, creamy flesh of these potatoes make them a popular choice among home cooks. They are especially loved for their natural sweetness and ability to hold their shape when cooked, making them perfect for roasting. Roasting small red potatoes in the oven intensifies their flavor and creates a golden, crispy exterior while still maintaining a soft and fluffy center.

To start, you will need to gather your ingredients, including small red potatoes, olive oil, salt, and any additional herbs or spices of your choosing. Preheating your oven to the right temperature is crucial for achieving the desired texture and taste. Once you have prepped the potatoes by washing and patting them dry, you can proceed to season them with olive oil, salt, and your selected herbs and spices.

Pro Tip: You can experiment with various herb combinations such as rosemary and thyme for a classic flavor, or try smoked paprika and garlic powder for a smoky and savory kick.

Arrange the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring that they have enough space to brown evenly. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes until they are golden and crispy, typically around 30-35 minutes, depending on their size. Remember to flip the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

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Once the small red potatoes are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed as a standalone side dish or used in a variety of recipes like potato salads or mashed potatoes. Regardless of how you choose to serve them, cooking small red potatoes in the oven is a straightforward and rewarding process that will impress your family and friends.

Simple Steps:

Follow these simple steps to cook small red potatoes in the oven:

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Wash the small red potatoes thoroughly under running water.
Step 3: Pat dry the potatoes using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Step 4: Place the potatoes on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
Step 5: Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Toss the potatoes gently to coat them evenly with the oil, salt, and pepper.
Step 7: Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on the baking sheet or dish.
Step 8: Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 9: Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
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Enjoy your delicious oven-roasted small red potatoes!

Gathering Ingredients:

Before you can start cooking small red potatoes in the oven, you will need to gather a few ingredients:

Ingredients: Quantity:
Small red potatoes 1 pound (about 450 grams)
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon
Paprika 1/4 teaspoon
Fresh parsley 1 tablespoon, chopped

Make sure you have all of these ingredients on hand before you begin cooking. Once you’ve gathered everything, you’ll be ready to move on to the next step!

Preparing Potatoes:

Before cooking your small red potatoes in the oven, there are a few steps you need to take to ensure they turn out perfectly:

1. Wash the potatoes: Thoroughly rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a brush if necessary to scrub off any stubborn residue.

2. Cut the potatoes: If desired, you can cut the potatoes into smaller pieces for faster and more even cooking. This is optional and depends on your preference.

3. Dry the potatoes: Using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, pat the potatoes dry to remove any excess moisture. This will help the potatoes to crisp up in the oven.

4. Season the potatoes: Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Toss the potatoes gently to ensure they are evenly coated.

5. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for cooking the potatoes.

Following these steps will help you prepare your small red potatoes for oven cooking and ensure they come out delicious and flavorful.

Seasoning:

Before roasting the small red potatoes, it’s important to season them well to enhance their flavor. Here are a few ways you can season your potatoes:

1. Classic Seasoning:

For a classic and simple seasoning, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Toss the potatoes in the mixture until they are well coated. This seasoning combination adds a delicious savory flavor to the potatoes.

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2. Herb Infused Seasoning:

If you prefer a more herbaceous flavor, try using a combination of fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Finely chop the herbs and mix them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss the potatoes in this mixture and let them absorb the fragrant flavors as they roast in the oven.

Remember to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can also get creative with other seasonings like paprika, cayenne pepper, or even grated Parmesan cheese to add a touch of spice or a cheesy kick to your roasted small red potatoes.

Cooking Process:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash the small red potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
  3. If desired, peel the potatoes using a peeler. This step is optional.
  4. Place the potatoes in a large bowl and drizzle them with olive oil.
  5. Add salt and pepper to taste, along with any other desired seasonings such as garlic powder, rosemary, or paprika.
  6. Toss the potatoes in the bowl until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
  7. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet or roasting pan.
  8. Place the baking sheet or roasting pan in the preheated oven.
  9. Bake the potatoes for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  10. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
  11. Serve the small red potatoes as a delicious side dish or enjoy them as a snack.

Serving:

Once the small red potatoes are cooked to perfection in the oven, it’s time to serve them up and enjoy their deliciousness! Here are a few serving suggestions:

  • As a side dish: These small red potatoes make a perfect side dish for a variety of main courses. Serve them alongside grilled chicken, roasted beef, or even fish. Their creamy texture and flavorful taste will complement any meal.
  • With toppings: You can also dress up the potatoes by adding your favorite toppings. Sprinkle them with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a burst of freshness. Drizzle some melted butter or olive oil over the top for added richness. For an extra kick of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or crispy bacon bits on top.
  • In salads: If you want to use the cooked small red potatoes in a salad, let them cool before cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Combine them with other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Toss the salad with a vinaigrette dressing or a creamy dressing of your choice.
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No matter how you choose to serve them, these oven-cooked small red potatoes are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy these delicious spuds!

FAQ

What are some easy recipes for cooking small red potatoes in the oven?

One easy recipe for cooking small red potatoes in the oven is to toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and then roast them at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Can I cook small red potatoes in the oven without peeling them?

Yes, you can cook small red potatoes in the oven without peeling them. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly before cooking. The skin of red potatoes is thin and edible, and it adds a nice texture and flavor to the dish.

What are some seasoning options for cooking small red potatoes in the oven?

There are many seasoning options for cooking small red potatoes in the oven. Some popular choices include garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, thyme, or a combination of these herbs and spices. You can also experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste.

How long does it take to cook small red potatoes in the oven?

The cooking time for small red potatoes in the oven can vary depending on the size and desired level of crispiness. On average, it takes about 25-30 minutes to cook small red potatoes at 400°F. However, it’s recommended to check their doneness by piercing them with a fork to ensure they are cooked through.

Can I use aluminum foil to cook small red potatoes in the oven?

Yes, you can use aluminum foil to cook small red potatoes in the oven. Wrapping the potatoes in foil helps to retain moisture and prevent them from drying out. However, if you prefer crispy potatoes, it’s better to roast them without foil to allow the skin to get crispy.

What are the ingredients needed to cook small red potatoes in the oven?

To cook small red potatoes in the oven, you will need the following ingredients: small red potatoes, olive oil, salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices for seasoning.

What temperature should I set my oven to when cooking small red potatoes?

You should preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) when cooking small red potatoes. This high temperature helps to give them a crispy exterior.