Introduction
Grilling is a fantastic way to bring out the natural flavors of vegetables, and grilled potatoes are no exception. This recipe from Love and Lemons is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy small yellow or red potatoes, seasoned and charred to perfection on the grill. Ideal for summer barbecues or a cozy family dinner, these grilled potatoes are sure to impress your guests.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 pounds small yellow or red potatoes
2 teaspoons sea salt
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper
Avocado oil or cooking spray, for the grill
Chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, and/or dill), optional, for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Instructions
1. Par-boil the potatoes: Place the whole potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Stir in 1 teaspoon of the sea salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 8 to 15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes. When cool enough to handle, cut them in half.
2. Preheat the grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat.
3. Season the potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), the remaining 1 teaspoon sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper.
4. Grill the potatoes: Brush or spray the grill grates with avocado oil. Place the potatoes cut-side down on the hot grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, or until char marks form. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and well charred. The exact timing will depend on the size of your potatoes.
5. Serve: Season to taste and sprinkle with fresh herbs, if desired.
Enjoy your delicious grilled potatoes!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Par-boil the potatoes
Place the whole potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Stir in 1 teaspoon of the sea salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 8 to 15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes. When cool enough to handle, cut them in half.
Preheat the grill
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium heat.
Season the potatoes
In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), the remaining 1 teaspoon sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper.
Grill the potatoes
Brush or spray the grill grates with avocado oil. Place the potatoes cut-side down on the hot grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, or until char marks form. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and well charred. The exact timing will depend on the size of your potatoes.
Serve
Season to taste and sprinkle with fresh herbs, if desired.
Notes
Choosing Potatoes
Use small yellow or red potatoes for the best results, as they hold their shape well when grilled.
Optional Seasoning
Feel free to customize the seasoning according to your taste preferences; adding herbs or spices can enhance the flavor.
Grill Care
Always oil the grill grates to prevent sticking, and monitor the potatoes closely to avoid burning.
Garnish
Chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill can add a refreshing touch to the final dish.
Cook techniques
Par-boiling
Par-boiling is a technique where you partially cook food, in this case, potatoes, by boiling them briefly before completing the cooking process on the grill. This ensures that the potatoes become tender on the inside while achieving a crispy exterior when grilled.
Preheating the grill
Preheating the grill is essential for ensuring even cooking and obtaining a good sear on your food. Heat the grill to medium before adding the potatoes to help achieve perfect char marks.
Tossing and seasoning
Tossing the potatoes with olive oil and seasonings in a bowl ensures that each piece is evenly coated. This enhances flavor and helps achieve a nice crust when grilled.
Grilling
Grilling involves cooking food over direct heat. For potatoes, placing them cut-side down allows for caramelization, while flipping them ensures they are evenly cooked on all sides until tender and charred.
Garnishing
Garnishing your grilled potatoes with fresh herbs adds a burst of flavor and visual appeal. Use chopped parsley, chives, or dill based on your preference for an enhanced finishing touch.
FAQ
Can I use larger potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, but larger potatoes may require a longer par-boiling time and more grilling time to ensure they are properly cooked through.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or roast the potatoes in the oven at a high temperature for a similar result.
How can I tell when the potatoes are cooked through?
The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender and have a nice char on the outside. Checking with a fork will give you a good indication of doneness.
Can I prepare the potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can par-boil and season the potatoes ahead of time, then grill them just before serving.
What variations can I try with the seasonings?
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices such as Italian seasoning, chili powder, or grated Parmesan for added flavor.
Conclusion
Grilled potatoes are a delightful and versatile side dish that can elevate any meal. Their crispy exterior and tender interior, infused with savory flavors, make them a perfect addition to barbecues, picnics, or casual dinners. Adding fresh herbs as a garnish enhances their taste, providing a burst of freshness that complements the smoky char from the grill. Whether served alongside grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian spread, these potatoes are sure to please.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Transform your grilled potatoes into creamy mashed potatoes by adding roasted garlic, butter, and cream for an indulgent side dish.
Herb-Infused Potato Salad
Combine grilled potatoes with a tangy dressing, diced onions, celery, and fresh herbs for a refreshing potato salad.
Spicy Grilled Potatoes
Add chili powder and cayenne pepper to your seasoning mix for a spicy kick that pairs well with grilled meats.
Potato and Vegetable Skewers
Thread grilled potatoes onto skewers with bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a colorful and flavorful grill experience.
Loaded Grilled Potato Wedges
Top grilled potato wedges with cheese, bacon, and green onions for a satisfying and hearty appetizer.
