These garlic parsley fries are oven-baked to a crispy golden finish, combining tender potato strips with fragrant garlic sautéed in olive oil and fresh parsley for an aromatic touch. The fries are tossed to ensure every piece is coated with flavor, making them ideal as a flavorful side or snack. Optional Parmesan adds a rich note, while soaking the potatoes beforehand helps achieve extra crispiness. Simple techniques and common ingredients create a delightful dish with a perfect blend of savory and herbal tastes.
Discovering garlic fries was like stumbling upon a hidden treasure in the world of snacks; the first time I made them, the whole kitchen filled with that irresistible aroma of garlic and fresh parsley, instantly turning a simple potato into something memorable.
I still remember when unexpected guests arrived one evening and these garlic fries saved the day, quickly becoming the star of the snack table as everyone kept reaching for more.
Ingredients
- Russet Potatoes: Chosen for their starchy texture that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Olive Oil: Using good quality olive oil enhances flavor and helps achieve golden fries.
- Sea Salt: A sprinkle at the end brings out all the layers of flavor.
- Fresh Garlic: Minced just right to infuse the fries without overpowering.
- Parsley: Provides a fresh herbal punch and color contrast.
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): Adds a savory finish if you’re feeling a little indulgent.
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and line baking sheets with parchment paper so the fries don't stick and bake evenly.
- Prep the Potatoes:
- Rinse the cut potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch and pat them thoroughly dry to make sure they crisp up perfectly in the oven.
- Coat and Bake:
- Toss fries with olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper, spreading them out in a single layer so each fry gets its golden moment, then bake flipping halfway through for even crispness.
- Make the Garlic Herb Mix:
- While fries bake, gently heat olive oil over low heat stirring in the minced garlic so it gets fragrant without browning; then stir in finely chopped parsley for a bright finish.
- Bring It All Together:
- After baking, toss the hot fries with the garlic-parsley oil mixture so every fry is coated with flavor then sprinkle some Parmesan for an optional cheesy twist.
This recipe became more than just food one chilly night when it turned into comfort during a casual gathering, wrapping everyone in warmth and good conversation over platefuls of golden fries.
Keeping It Fresh
I like to chop fresh parsley right before tossing it with the garlic oil to keep that bright green pop and herbal freshness that wakes up the fries perfectly.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
Try serving garlic fries alongside a spicy aioli or your favorite dipping sauce to add another layer of flavor that guests adore and always ask about.
A Time This Recipe Saved the Day
Once, when last minute guests arrived unexpectedly, this recipe was a quick rescue that transformed pantry staples into a comforting snack everyone loved
- Don't forget to soak the potatoes in cold water for extra crunch.
- If you want a twist, swap parsley for chives or cilantro.
- Always serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Thanks for hanging out in the kitchen with me; I hope these garlic fries bring as much joy to your table as they do to mine.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I make the fries crispy without frying?
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Soaking the potato strips in cold water before baking and thoroughly drying them helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries. Baking at a high temperature and flipping halfway ensures even crispness.
- → Can I substitute parsley with other herbs?
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Yes, chives or cilantro can be used as alternatives to parsley, offering different but complementary herbal flavors.
- → How is the garlic flavor infused without burning it?
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Sauté minced garlic gently in olive oil over low heat just until fragrant, avoiding browning, which can create bitterness, then mix with fries for a delicate garlic aroma.
- → Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
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Peeling is optional; leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients, while peeled fries offer a smoother finish. Both work well for this method.
- → What are good serving suggestions for these fries?
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These fries pair nicely with aioli, ketchup, or your preferred dipping sauces and make a great side for grilled or roasted dishes.