New Potatoes Baked With Bay Leaves And Lemon
Juicy red new potatoes baked with fragrant bay leaves and bright lemon, offering a savory and citrusy flavor perfect for sharing at gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly oil a large, shallow baking dish and add the potatoes.
- Mix lemon juice, oregano, lemon peel, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Whisk in olive oil until well combined.
- Pour the lemon mixture over the potatoes and toss well to coat.
- Tuck the bay leaves around the potatoes.
- Bake until potatoes are golden brown and a knife pierces centers easily, about 45 minutes, turning potatoes every 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or shallots to the lemon mixture. If you don't have fresh lemon juice, bottled juice can work in a pinch, but fresh is best. When selecting potatoes, look for firm, smooth ones without blemishes. Toss leftover potatoes with fresh herbs for a quick side dish the next day. You can also use this method for other vegetables, such as carrots or sweet potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
These baked potatoes pair beautifully with grilled meats or fish, making them a perfect side for a summer barbecue. Consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or Mediterranean recipes like Braised Green Squash for a balanced meal. For added flavor, sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving. They also complement dishes like Antipasta well, adding a hearty touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to restore crispness. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but be aware that this may make the potatoes a bit softer. Ensure they are heated through before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New Potatoes Baked With Bay Leaves And Lemon contains roughly 470 calories, with 15g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (252% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1206mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute red new potatoes with other waxy varieties like Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes. Just ensure they are similar in size for even cooking. Starchy potatoes, like Russets, will work but may become fluffier and less firm.
What can I do with leftover bay leaves?
Leftover bay leaves can be dried and stored for future use in soups, stews, or sauces. They can also be added to rice or grain dishes for flavor. Just remember to remove them before serving, as they can be tough and sharp.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic, shallots, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the lemon mixture. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be tucked in with the bay leaves for added aroma. Drizzling with balsamic vinegar before serving can also elevate the taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).