These Pesto Sweet Potato Fries are a tasty twist on your regular fries! They’re crispy, colorful, and packed with flavor from the delicious pesto sauce.
Who knew sweet potatoes could be this fun? I love to pair them with a little extra pesto for dipping—it’s such a yummy combo! Making them is a breeze, too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! Their natural sweetness complements the pesto perfectly. If you’re short on sweet potatoes, regular potatoes can work, though they’ll have a different flavor.
Olive Oil: It helps the fries crisp up in the oven. If you want a milder taste, feel free to substitute with canola or avocado oil. I personally love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor.
Pesto: Basil pesto is fragrant and tasty. If you need a dairy-free option, look for vegan pesto. You can even make your own by blending basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty, nutty flavor. If you prefer vegan cheese or have a dietary restriction, omit it or substitute with nutritional yeast.
How Do You Get Sweet Potato Fries Extra Crispy?
Getting those sweet potato fries crispy can be a bit tricky, but it’s all about the preparation and cooking method!
- Cut the fries evenly, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; spread them out in a single layer. This helps air circulate, making them crispy.
- Flipping the fries halfway through baking is important. This lets both sides crisp up nicely.
- For extra crispiness, consider soaking the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch!
Remember, patience is key, so let them bake until golden brown for the best results!
Pesto Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fries:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought basil pesto
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and another 25-30 minutes to bake in the oven. So, in total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to enjoy these crispy, flavorful fries!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking, making cleanup a breeze!
2. Cut the Sweet Potatoes:
Give the sweet potatoes a good wash and dry them off. Now, slice each potato into even fries, aiming for about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy!
3. Season the Fries:
In a large bowl, add your sweet potato fries and drizzle them with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together well until the fries are coated nicely.
4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Spread the seasoned fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not stacked on top of each other—this is key for crispiness!
5. Bake Until Perfect:
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip the fries halfway through to ensure they get golden and crispy on all sides!
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once the fries are baked to perfection, take them out of the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle your choice of pesto sauce over the fries or serve it on the side for dipping.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top and add a handful of chopped fresh basil leaves for that extra flavor kick. Serve these delicious fries hot and enjoy!
These Pesto Sweet Potato Fries are not only fun to make but also a fantastic treat that everyone will love. Enjoy the crispy, vibrant flavors paired with the delightful taste of pesto!
Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, you can! Regular potatoes will work, but they won’t have the same sweetness. You’ll get a different flavor profile, but they’ll still make for delicious fries!
How Can I Make These Fries Spicier?
If you want a kick, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder along with the salt and pepper before baking. You can also try adding crushed red pepper flakes for an extra touch of heat!
Can I Prepare These Fries in Advance?
Yes! You can cut and season the sweet potatoes, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just toss them in a little extra olive oil before baking if they seem dry.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Fries?
Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
