Grilling is a fantastic way to bring out the natural flavors of different foods, and red potatoes are no exception. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply wanting to enhance your weeknight dinner, grilled red potatoes can be a delicious and easy-to-make side dish. The heat from the grill caramelizes the potatoes, giving them a smoky and slightly charred flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of seasonings and herbs.
Preparation: Before you start grilling your red potatoes, it’s essential to prepare them properly. Begin by scrubbing the potatoes to remove any dirt or debris, as you’ll be grilling them with the skin on. Then, cut the potatoes into even-sized pieces, ensuring that they’ll cook evenly on the grill.
Seasoning: Once your potatoes are prepped, it’s time to season them. You can keep it simple by tossing them in olive oil, salt, and pepper for a classic flavor. For a more unique and flavorful twist, add some minced garlic, chopped rosemary, or paprika to the mix. The choice of seasonings is entirely up to you and your taste preferences.
Cooking:
Now that your red potatoes are seasoned, it’s time to fire up the grill! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). Place the potatoes on a vegetable grilling tray or directly on the grill grates if they’re thick enough. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Don’t forget to give them a flip halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
Grilled red potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of grilled meats, poultry, or even seafood. They make a flavorful addition to any cookout or gathering, and the best part is that they’re incredibly easy to make. So next time you fire up the grill, don’t forget to include some red potatoes for a delicious and crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will enjoy!
Grilled Red Potatoes: A Delicious Side Dish for Your BBQ
Red potatoes are a popular choice for grilling due to their firm texture and rich flavor. They are easy to prepare and make a delicious side dish for your BBQ. Grilling red potatoes adds a smoky flavor and crispness to the potatoes, making them even more irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of red potatoes
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. It’s important to cook the potatoes over direct heat to achieve that perfect char and crispness.
- Scrub the red potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. You can leave the skin on for extra flavor and texture.
- Cut the red potatoes into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the potato pieces to the bowl and toss them well to coat them evenly with the seasonings.
- Place the seasoned potatoes in a grill basket or directly onto the grill grates. Make sure they are in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally with a spatula to prevent sticking and ensure they cook evenly. They are done when they are golden brown and tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove the potatoes from the grill and transfer them to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, if desired.
- Serve the grilled red potatoes hot as a tasty side dish for your BBQ. They pair well with grilled meats, poultry, or fish.
Grilled red potatoes are a simple yet flavorful side dish that will impress your guests at your next BBQ. They add a delicious smoky element to your meal and are sure to be a hit!
Choosing the Perfect Red Potatoes for Grilling
When it comes to grilling red potatoes, selecting the right type of potatoes is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of tenderness and flavor. Here are some factors to consider when choosing red potatoes for grilling:
1. Size Matters
When selecting red potatoes for grilling, it is important to choose potatoes that are similar in size. This ensures that they cook evenly and are ready all at the same time. Look for potatoes that are small to medium in size, approximately 2 to 3 inches in diameter.
2. Firmness and Texture
Red potatoes should feel firm and dense when you hold them. Avoid potatoes that feel soft or spongy, as they may not hold up well on the grill. The texture of the potatoes should be smooth and free from any blemishes or soft spots.
Additionally, red potatoes have a waxy texture, which makes them ideal for grilling. The waxy texture helps them hold their shape during cooking and prevents them from getting mushy.
Now that you know what to look for when choosing red potatoes for grilling, you can confidently select the perfect potatoes for your next barbecue cookout!
Preparing the Potatoes for the Grill
Before you start cooking red potatoes on the grill, it’s important to properly prepare them. Follow these steps to ensure delicious and perfectly cooked potatoes:
- Wash the red potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the red potatoes into quarters or bite-sized pieces. Try to keep them all roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
- In a bowl, toss the potato pieces with olive oil until they are evenly coated. The oil will help prevent the potatoes from sticking to the grill and add flavor.
- Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Herbs like rosemary or thyme work well with red potatoes.
- To further enhance the flavor, you can add minced garlic or onions to the bowl and toss everything together.
- For an optional smoky flavor, you can also sprinkle some paprika or smoked paprika on the potatoes.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the potatoes marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Once the red potatoes have been properly prepared, they are ready to be grilled to perfection!
Seasoning Options for Grilled Red Potatoes
Grilled red potatoes are a delicious and healthy side dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of seasonings. Whether you prefer savory or spicy flavors, there are plenty of options to choose from to enhance the taste of your grilled red potatoes.
1. Garlic and Rosemary
Garlic and rosemary are classic and flavorful choices for seasoning grilled red potatoes. To add these flavors, start by mixing together minced garlic, chopped fresh rosemary, olive oil, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss the red potatoes in this mixture before grilling to infuse them with a fragrant and delicious taste.
2. Lemon and Herb
If you’re looking for a lighter and refreshing taste, try a lemon and herb seasoning for your grilled red potatoes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the potatoes and sprinkle them with a mixture of dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, and parsley. The citrusy and herbaceous flavors will complement the natural sweetness of the red potatoes.
3. Spicy Cajun
If you enjoy a bit of heat, give your grilled red potatoes a spicy Cajun twist. Create a Cajun spice blend by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Toss the red potatoes in this seasoning mix before grilling to add a bold and spicy kick to your dish.
Remember to adjust the amount of seasoning according to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and create your own unique flavor combinations for grilled red potatoes. Whether you choose a traditional garlic and rosemary mix, a zesty lemon and herb blend, or a fiery Cajun seasoning, your grilled red potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleasing side dish on any occasion.
Grilling Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Potatoes
Grilling potatoes on the BBQ can be a delicious and versatile way to cook this classic side dish. Whether you want to create crispy potato wedges or flavorful foil packets, perfecting your grilling technique is key to achieving mouthwatering results. Here are some tips for cooking red potatoes on the grill:
1. Prep the Potatoes:
Start by washing and scrubbing the red potatoes to remove any dirt. Next, slice them into evenly sized pieces or leave them whole, depending on your preference. If you’re using smaller potatoes, you can leave them whole to enhance their natural sweetness and tenderness.
2. Parboil the Potatoes:
Parboiling the potatoes prior to grilling will help ensure that they cook evenly and completely. Place the potatoes in a pot of boiling water and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are slightly tender but still firm. Drain the potatoes and let them cool before grilling.
3. Season the Potatoes:
To enhance the flavor of the potatoes, consider seasoning them with your favorite spices and herbs. A simple combination of olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder can go a long way in adding a delicious taste to your grilled potatoes. You can also experiment with different seasonings such as rosemary, paprika, or chili powder to suit your taste buds.
4. Prepare the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent the potatoes from sticking. You can also use a grill basket or aluminum foil to create a cooking vessel for the potatoes and make cleanup easier.
5. Grill the Potatoes:
Place the prepared red potatoes directly on the grill grates or in a grill basket. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they are tender and nicely browned. If you are using aluminum foil, fold it to create a packet and place it on the grill. Cook for approximately 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are cooked through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes. You can garnish them with fresh herbs like parsley or serve them with your favorite dipping sauce. Grilled potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, burgers, or as a standalone vegetarian option.
Follow these grilling techniques, and you’ll be able to create delicious and perfectly cooked red potatoes on the grill every time. Enjoy the crispy exteriors and tender interiors of these flavorful grilled potatoes.
FAQ
What is the best way to cook red potatoes on the grill?
The best way to cook red potatoes on the grill is to first preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Then, slice the red potatoes into quarters or smaller pieces for faster and more even cooking. Toss the potato pieces with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices. Place the potatoes on a sheet of aluminum foil and fold it up to create a packet. Grill the packet for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. You can also grill the potatoes directly on the grill grates, but make sure to flip them every 5 minutes to prevent burning.
Can I cook red potatoes on the grill without pre-cooking them?
Yes, you can cook red potatoes on the grill without pre-cooking them. However, it will take longer for the potatoes to cook through and become tender. If you prefer your potatoes to have a softer texture, it is recommended to pre-cook them by boiling or microwaving them for a few minutes before grilling. Pre-cooking will help to shorten the grilling time and ensure that the potatoes are fully cooked.
Do I need to peel the red potatoes before grilling them?
No, you do not need to peel the red potatoes before grilling them. The thin skin of red potatoes is edible and adds a nice texture to the dish. However, if you prefer peeled potatoes, you can certainly peel them before grilling. Just make sure to adjust the grilling time accordingly, as peeled potatoes may cook faster than unpeeled ones.
What are some seasoning options for grilled red potatoes?
There are many seasoning options for grilled red potatoes. You can keep it simple with just salt, pepper, and olive oil, or you can get creative and use a variety of herbs and spices. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, rosemary, thyme, and parsley. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or sprinkle some Parmesan cheese over the potatoes for extra flavor. Feel free to experiment and find your favourite combination of seasonings!