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Parmesan Pesto Roasted Potatoes

Parmesan Pesto Roasted Potatoes

Parmesan Pesto Roasted Potatoes are crispy, flavorful potatoes with tender interiors and golden edges, coated generously in vibrant fresh basil pesto and nutty Parmesan cheese. This quick and easy side dish offers a burst of herbaceous freshness combined with rich, savory notes, making it a versatile companion to meats, fish, or vegetables. Ready in under 45 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleasing twist on classic roasted potatoes that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 1.5 pounds small Yukon Gold or baby potatoes

Pesto Sauce

  • 1/3 cup fresh basil pesto (homemade or high-quality store-bought)

Cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings & Oil

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly, especially if keeping the skins on. Cut into bite-sized pieces for even roasting and quick cooking. Dry them well with a kitchen towel or paper towels to avoid steaming and ensure crispiness.
  2. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat ensures the potatoes develop golden, crispy edges while staying tender inside.
  3. Toss Potatoes with Olive Oil and Seasonings: In a large bowl, gently toss the potato pieces with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic if using, making sure each piece is coated evenly for flavorful roasting.
  4. Roast the Potatoes: Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to promote even browning and a crisp exterior.
  5. Add Pesto and Parmesan: Remove the potatoes from the oven and immediately toss them with fresh basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese. Return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and blend beautifully with the pesto.
  6. Final Crispy Roast and Serve: Give the potatoes one last roasting to brown the Parmesan and deepen the pesto flavor. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil or parsley, and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and tastes.

Notes

  • Dry the potatoes thoroughly before roasting to achieve crispy edges.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even roasting and avoid steaming.
  • Use fresh or high-quality store-bought pesto for the best flavor.
  • Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for optimal melting and flavor.
  • Toss potatoes quickly with pesto right after roasting to coat while still warm.

Nutrition

Keywords: Parmesan pesto roasted potatoes, crispy potatoes, roasted potatoes recipe, pesto side dish, easy roasted potatoes, Parmesan potatoes, basil pesto potatoes