Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes

This lemon herb roasted potatoes recipe transforms simple baby potatoes into a flavorful side dish bursting with buttery, garlicky, and citrus notes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, these potatoes are tender on the inside and beautifully crisp on the outside, making them a family favorite every time.

I first made this recipe on a chilly weekend when I wanted a comforting but bright side dish and now it is a must-have in our dinner rotation

Gather Your Ingredients

• Baby potatoes: one pound choose small to medium-sized with firm skins for the best texture after roasting
• Olive oil: one quarter cup provides a rich base and helps to crisp the potatoes wonderfully
• Butter: two tablespoons melted adds a creamy depth and helps carry the garlic and herbs into every crevice
• Garlic: three cloves minced use fresh for the most intense flavor that roasts beautifully with the potatoes
• Italian parsley leaves: one tablespoon chopped fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a pleasant herbal note
• Lemon juice: one tablespoon fresh squeezed for a vibrant tartness that balances the richness
• Honey: one tablespoon adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the caramelization during roasting
• Salt: one quarter teaspoon to season and enhance all the flavors in the potatoes
• Ground black pepper: three dashes freshly ground for a mild heat and complexity

How to Make It

Preheat oven and prepare potatoes:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 176 degrees Celsius. Prepare the potatoes by cutting slits into each one without slicing all the way through. This step helps the flavors penetrate deeply while keeping the potatoes intact.

Mix oil and seasonings:

In a medium bowl, combine olive oil melted butter minced garlic chopped Italian parsley lemon juice honey salt and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended this oil mixture will infuse the potatoes with aromatic and bright flavors.

Arrange and brush potatoes:

Arrange the potatoes in a roasting pan in a single layer. Brush them generously with the oil mixture using a pastry brush making sure to get the mixture inside the slits to maximize flavor inside and out. Set aside some of the oil mixture for basting during cooking.

Roast and baste potatoes:

Roast the potatoes for one hour in the preheated oven. While roasting baste the potatoes every 30 minutes with the reserved oil mixture. This basting keeps them moist and flavorful helping to develop a beautiful golden brown exterior.

Serve immediately:

Serve the potatoes immediately after roasting to enjoy their crisp texture. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats roasted chicken or a fresh green salad.

My favorite ingredient has to be the fresh lemon juice it cuts through the richness and makes these potatoes feel light and refreshing. One memorable dinner I served this at a family gathering everyone kept going back for more even though the table was full of dishes. It’s proof that simplicity done right always wins.

Flavor Boosters

Store leftover roasted potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a hot oven or a skillet to regain their crispiness rather than microwaving which can make them soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside roasted or grilled chicken pork chops or seafood for a satisfying meal. Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance richness. Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt mixed with chives for extra creaminess.

Creative Twists

Swap baby potatoes for fingerling or small Yukon gold potatoes if you prefer a creamier texture. Use fresh thyme or rosemary instead of Italian parsley for a piney or earthy twist. Replace honey with maple syrup or omit it entirely for a less sweet version.

This recipe balances rich and bright flavors beautifully making it a reliable side for many meals.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of potatoes work best for roasting?

Baby potatoes or small Yukon Gold varieties are ideal for even roasting and tender texture.

→ How do I ensure the potatoes absorb maximum flavor?

Cutting slits in the potatoes allows the lemon herb oil mixture to seep inside, enhancing flavor deeply.

→ Can I make the lemon herb oil mixture ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the mixture in advance helps the flavors meld together, enriching the taste when applied.

→ Why is basting important during roasting?

Basting keeps the potatoes moist, encourages caramelization, and intensifies the herb and garlic aroma.

→ What temperature is best for roasting these potatoes?

Roasting at 350°F (176°C) ensures even cooking and a crisp outer layer without burning.