Rosemary Skewered Potatoes: A Taste of Summer’s Bounty
There’s a particular magic that happens when the aroma of grilled food fills the air, a promise of sun-drenched days and relaxed evenings. For me, that scent is inextricably linked to my childhood summers, especially to Father’s Day gatherings. One year, my dad, a man who took immense pride in his grilling prowess, introduced a dish that became an instant legend: rosemary-skewered potatoes. The fragrant smoke of the rosemary hitting the grill, mingled with the earthy scent of the potatoes, was intoxicating. We’d gather around, eagerly anticipating those first golden-brown bites, each one bursting with herbaceous flavor and a perfectly tender interior. It was more than just food; it was a sensory symphony of family, sunshine, and pure culinary joy.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Yield: 4 servings
- Dietary Type: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb new potatoes
- 3 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 6-8 rosemary sprigs (longer ones work best for skewering)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Large bowl
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
Instructions
- Begin by boiling the new potatoes in a medium saucepan for 15 minutes, or until they are just tender when pierced with a fork. It’s important not to overcook them at this stage, as they will continue to cook on the grill.
- Once tender, drain the potatoes thoroughly.
- While the potatoes are still warm, cut them in half. This will expose a larger surface area for seasoning and grilling.
- In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with the olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Ensure each potato piece is evenly coated.
- Now, prepare your rosemary sprigs. Remove most of the leaves from the sprigs, leaving just a small tuft of leaves at the tip. This helps create a visually appealing skewer and also infuses an extra layer of rosemary flavor.
- Skewer the potatoes onto the prepared rosemary sprigs, making sure to place them cut-side down. You should be able to fit a few potato halves on each sprig, depending on their size and the length of your sprigs.
- Preheat your grill to medium-hot. If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a grill pan on the stovetop will also work beautifully.
- Carefully place the skewered potatoes onto the hot grill, again ensuring the cut side is down.
- Grill for 5-6 minutes on the first side, or until the cut surfaces are nicely browned and slightly caramelized.
- Using tongs, flip the skewers and grill for another 5-6 minutes on the other side, or until the potatoes are cooked through and tender.
Expert Tips & Tricks
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, but a few chef-level touches can elevate it further. When selecting your new potatoes, opt for smaller, uniform sizes for even cooking. If you can’t find long rosemary sprigs, you can always use metal or bamboo skewers and simply incorporate more fresh rosemary into the potato toss. Don’t be afraid of a good char on the cut side of the potatoes; this is where much of the flavor develops. If your grill is prone to flare-ups, a quick indirect heat phase can help prevent burning.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
These Rosemary Skewered Potatoes are best served immediately off the grill, while they are still warm and fragrant. They make a stunning accompaniment to grilled meats, fish, or a vibrant summer salad. The smoky aroma of the rosemary will continue to entice your guests. If you happen to have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, a brief stint in a hot oven or a quick sauté in a pan will bring them back to their former glory.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 147.8 kcal | |
| Calories from Fat | 61% | |
| Total Fat | 6.9 g | 10% |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g | 4% |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 7.1 mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 19.9 g | 6% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.6 g | 10% |
| Sugars | 0.9 g | 3% |
| Protein | 2.3 g | 4% |
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used.)
Variations & Substitutions
While the classic is hard to beat, feel free to experiment. For a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the olive oil mixture. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the finished potatoes brightens the flavors beautifully. If you’re not a fan of rosemary, thyme or a blend of Mediterranean herbs can be used as a delightful alternative. For a richer, more rustic flavor, consider using small, halved Yukon Gold potatoes.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?
A: You can boil and cut the potatoes ahead of time, but it’s best to toss them with the olive oil and seasonings just before skewering and grilling for optimal texture and flavor.
Q: What if my rosemary sprigs are too short for skewering?
A: If your rosemary sprigs are short, you can use wooden or metal skewers. You can then tuck a few fresh rosemary leaves around the potatoes on the skewer or chop extra rosemary to toss with the potatoes.
Q: How do I ensure the potatoes don’t stick to the grill?
A: Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing the potatoes on them. The olive oil on the potatoes will also help prevent sticking.
Q: Can I bake these instead of grilling them?
A: Yes, you can bake them on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and browned. However, grilling imparts a unique smoky flavor.
Q: What kind of potatoes are best for this recipe?
A: New potatoes are ideal because they are small, have a thin skin, and hold their shape well during cooking.
Final Thoughts
These Rosemary Skewered Potatoes are a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. They embody the spirit of al fresco dining – rustic, flavorful, and wonderfully aromatic. The fragrant rosemary not only infuses the potatoes with its distinct essence but also creates a beautiful presentation. I encourage you to try this recipe the next time you’re looking to add a touch of effortless elegance to your barbecue. Share them with loved ones, savor the moment, and perhaps, create your own cherished culinary memories. They pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a light lager, completing a perfect summer meal.