Pesto Sweet Potato Fries are a fun twist on your usual fries! They are crispy, colorful, and packed with flavor thanks to the tasty pesto that gives them a nice herbal kick.
These fries make a great side or snack. I love dipping them in extra pesto, but honestly, they are so good that I could eat them plain! Plus, they’re healthier than regular fries—win-win! 🍠🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the stars of this dish! If sweet potatoes aren’t available, you can use regular potatoes or even zucchini slices. Just know that cooking times may vary.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely flavor, but feel free to swap it for avocado oil or canola oil if that’s what you have. Both will work great!
Pesto: You can use store-bought pesto for convenience, or make your own with basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil! If you’re nut-free, try sunflower seed or arugula pesto instead.
Parmesan Cheese: This is optional, so if you want a dairy-free version, skip it or substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Crispy Sweet Potato Fries?
Getting sweet potato fries crispy can be a bit tricky, but a few tips can help! It’s all about the cooking method and preparation.
- **Cut Uniformly:** Make sure your fries are cut to about 1/2 inch thick so they cook evenly.
- **Toss Properly:** Coat them well in oil and seasonings. This helps with crisping!
- **Avoid Overcrowding:** Make sure the fries spread out on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of crisping.
- **Flip Halfway:** Turning the fries halfway through cooking allows them to get brown and crisp on all sides.
Following these tips will give you that perfect crispy texture many of us crave! Enjoy your cooking!
Pesto Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fries:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, washed and cut into fries (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 25-30 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish for these delightful fries!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is key to getting those fries nice and crispy! While the oven is heating, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
2. Toss the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, combine the cut sweet potato fries with the olive oil. Add the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the fries are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This will make them flavorful!
3. Prepare for Baking:
Spread the coated fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded—this helps them crisp up nicely in the oven!
4. Bake the Fries:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Be sure to flip the fries halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly. They should become tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.
5. Add the Pesto:
Once the fries are finished baking, take them out of the oven and transfer them to a serving plate. Spoon the pesto over them evenly—it adds such a delicious flavor!
6. Optional Toppings:
If you’d like, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. It adds a lovely salty, cheesy flavor! Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary for a touch of style.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
These fries are best served immediately. If you’d like, put some extra pesto on the side for dipping. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes give a unique flavor and extra nutrition, you can use regular white or Yukon gold potatoes. Just remember that cooking times may vary!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato fries and toss them in oil and seasonings ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving for the best results!
How Do I Store Leftover Fries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they regain their crispiness!
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite spices like cumin, chili powder, or even nutritional yeast for extra flavor. You can also top them with fresh herbs, chili flakes, or a squeeze of lemon for variation.
