Grilling season is upon us, and nothing complements a barbecue quite like perfectly grilled potatoes. This Easy Skewered Grilled Potatoes Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that adds a delicious, smoky flavor to your meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, a family gathering, or just a casual weekend dinner, these skewered potatoes are sure to be a hit. The recipe is simple, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time, yet it yields a flavorful and satisfying side dish. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful dish that will elevate your grilling game.
Ingredients for Easy Skewered Grilled Potatoes Recipe
To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds of small potatoes (such as baby potatoes or fingerling potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How to Make Easy Skewered Grilled Potatoes
Follow these steps to prepare and grill your skewered potatoes to perfection:
1. Preparing the Potatoes:
- Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly. Since we’re using small potatoes, there’s no need to peel them.
- If the potatoes are larger than bite-sized, cut them in half to ensure even cooking.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Bring the pot to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 10 minutes or until they are just tender. You don’t want them to be too soft as they will continue cooking on the grill.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
2. Marinating the Potatoes:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Add the slightly cooled potatoes to the bowl and toss them gently to coat them evenly with the marinade. Let the potatoes marinate for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Preparing the Skewers:
- If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Thread the marinated potatoes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each potato to ensure even cooking. This will also help the potatoes cook faster and get a nice char on the grill.
4. Grilling the Potatoes:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Check the potatoes with a fork to ensure they are cooked through. They should be tender on the inside and have a nice grill mark on the outside.
- Remove the skewers from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes.
5. Serving the Skewered Grilled Potatoes:
- Transfer the skewered potatoes to a serving platter.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious grilled potatoes with your favorite dipping sauce or as a side dish to your grilled meats or vegetables.
About the Main Ingredients
Potatoes:
Potatoes are the star of this recipe, and for good reason. They are versatile, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. Potatoes are rich in vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber. They are also a good source of antioxidants, which help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. In this recipe, small potatoes like baby potatoes or fingerling potatoes are ideal because they cook quickly and have a delightful texture. Their small size allows them to be easily skewered and grilled, making them perfect for this dish.
Olive Oil:
Olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and is known for its health benefits. It is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and help reduce inflammation. Olive oil also contains antioxidants, such as vitamin E and polyphenols, which protect against oxidative damage. In this recipe, olive oil is used to coat the potatoes, helping the spices adhere to them and ensuring they don’t stick to the grill.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder:
Garlic powder and onion powder add a depth of flavor to the potatoes without overwhelming them. These spices are convenient alternatives to fresh garlic and onion, providing a subtle but delicious taste. Garlic powder is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, while onion powder adds a sweet and savory flavor.
Smoked Paprika:
Smoked paprika is a key ingredient in this recipe, giving the potatoes a rich, smoky flavor that complements the grill’s natural char. It is made from dried and smoked red peppers and adds a vibrant red color to the dish. Smoked paprika is also rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and E, which are beneficial for eye health and immune function.
Dried Rosemary:
Dried rosemary adds a fragrant, earthy flavor to the potatoes. This herb pairs wonderfully with potatoes, adding a hint of pine and citrus. Rosemary is also known for its antioxidant properties and potential benefits for digestion and memory.
Salt and Pepper:
Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients. Salt helps to bring out the natural flavors of the potatoes and spices, while pepper adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor.
Fresh Parsley:
Fresh parsley is used as a garnish in this recipe, adding a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note. Parsley is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and adds a mild, peppery taste to the dish. It also helps to balance the richness of the grilled potatoes, making them even more enjoyable.
By following this recipe, you can create a delicious and easy side dish that is perfect for any grilling occasion. These skewered grilled potatoes are sure to impress your guests and become a staple at your barbecues. Enjoy the smoky, savory flavors and the satisfaction of creating a dish that is both simple and incredibly tasty. Happy grilling!
