Pesto sweet potato fries are a fun twist on your regular fries! They’re crispy, colorful, and packed with flavor from the pesto.
These fries are so tasty that you might want to eat them for every meal. I like to dip mine in extra pesto—it’s like giving them a tasty hug! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: They are the star of this dish, offering a natural sweetness and vibrant color. If sweet potatoes aren’t available, try using regular potatoes or even carrots for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: This helps achieve that crispy texture! If you prefer, you can use avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a unique taste and, they can also handle high heat well.
Pesto: Fresh basil pesto adds a delicious herbaceous note. For a nut-free option, swap pine nuts for sunflower seeds or omit them completely. You can also use store-bought pesto if you’re short on time.
Garlic Powder: This adds extra flavor, but feel free to leave it out if you’re not a fan of garlic. Fresh minced garlic can also work, just use it sparingly.
How Do You Ensure Your Fries Are Crispy?
Getting crispy sweet potato fries takes a little technique. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to cut your fries evenly; this helps them cook at the same rate.
- Coat them well with oil and seasonings. Don’t skip the oil as it helps in crisping!
- Spread the fries out on the baking sheet without overlapping—this is key for that crispy texture.
- Flip them halfway through baking to get both sides evenly crispy.
- Watch them closely! The cooking time may vary depending on your oven.
How to Make Pesto Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fries:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, washed and cut into fries (about 1/2-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
For Homemade Basil Pesto (optional):
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to bake, making it a quick and delicious side dish ready in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps the fries become crispy. Don’t forget to line your baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease with cooking spray!
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and cut the sweet potatoes into fries, about 1/2 inch thick. If you like, you can leave the skin on; it adds a nice texture and extra nutrients. Just make sure they are uniform in size for even cooking.
3. Toss the Fries:
In a large bowl, toss the cut sweet potato fries with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). Ensure every fry is nicely coated to maximize flavor and crispiness.
4. Arrange the Fries:
Spread the fries out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd them; this allows the hot air to circulate and helps them crisp up beautifully!
5. Bake the Fries:
Bake the fries in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Make sure to flip them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on them—they should be golden brown and crispy on the edges when done.
6. Make the Homemade Basil Pesto (Optional):
If you chose to make homemade pesto, toss the basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic into a food processor. Pulse until everything is coarsely chopped. Then add the Parmesan cheese and slowly pour in the olive oil while processing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the Fries:
Once the fries are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Arrange them on a plate or a serving board. You can drizzle the fresh pesto over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.
8. Enjoy:
Dig in and enjoy your delicious, crispy pesto sweet potato fries right away for the best texture and flavor. They’re perfect as a tasty snack, side dish, or appetizer!
These pesto sweet potato fries are a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional fries, bursting with flavor and a lovely herbal twist from the pesto. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use regular potatoes or even other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips! Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the type and size of the fries you cut.
What Can I Substitute for Basil Pesto?
If you don’t have basil pesto, you can use store-bought or homemade sun-dried tomato pesto, spinach pesto, or even a simple mix of olive oil, garlic, and parmesan to keep it flavorful!
How Do I Store Leftover Fries?
Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make the Fries in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! Toss the fries in oil and seasonings as usual, then cook in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
