These Pesto Sweet Potato Fries are a fun twist on your favorite snack! Crispy sweet potatoes are tossed in a zesty pesto sauce, making them both tasty and colorful.
Who knew fries could be this fancy? I love serving them with a little extra pesto for dipping. They’re perfect for impressing friends or just treating yourself! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish. They give a natural sweetness and creamy texture. If you want to mix it up, try using regular potatoes or even carrots for a unique twist!
Olive Oil: Olive oil enhances flavor and helps achieve that crispy texture. If you’re out, any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil will work too. Just avoid strong-flavored oils that might overpower the dish.
Basil: Fresh basil gives the pesto its vibrant flavor. If you don’t have it, consider using spinach or arugula instead for a different taste. Dried herbs will work in a pinch but won’t be as punchy!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds richness to the pesto. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or omit it entirely—your fries will still be flavorful with the other ingredients.
Nuts: Pine nuts are traditional for pesto, but walnuts or even sunflower seeds are great alternatives if you’re looking for something more budget-friendly.
How Do I Get My Sweet Potato Fries Crispy?
The key to crispy sweet potato fries is in the baking technique and preparation. Here’s how to achieve that crunch!
- Cut fries evenly for uniform cooking; about 1/2 inch thick works best.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give fries space to breathe for optimal crispiness.
- Use high heat (425°F) for roasting; it helps them crisp up nicely.
- Flip the fries halfway through baking; this allows for even browning on all sides.
Give them some space and patience in the oven, and you’ll enjoy delightful, crispy fries every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Delicious Pesto Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fries:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, washed and cut into fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Pesto:
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves (optional, for added brightness)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for the pesto)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for roasting, totaling around 40 minutes. Once you’re ready, you can sit back and let the oven do the work while you prepare the delicious pesto!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare to Bake:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help your fries crisp up beautifully. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Cut Your Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and cut the sweet potatoes into fries, trying to keep them about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking. This will help them all cook at the same rate!
3. Season the Fries:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Make sure every fry is well coated for the best flavor.
4. Bake the Fries:
Spread the fries out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through to achieve golden, crispy edges.
5. Make the Pesto:
While the fries are baking, it’s time to make your pesto! In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, optional parsley, garlic, Parmesan cheese (if using), and pine nuts or walnuts. Pulse a few times to chop the ingredients.
6. Blend in the Oil:
With the food processor running, slowly add in 1/4 cup olive oil until the pesto is smooth and creamy. Taste your pesto, and feel free to adjust the salt and lemon juice to your liking!
7. Combine and Serve:
Once the fries are nice and crispy, take them out of the oven and transfer them to a serving plate. Drizzle the fresh pesto generously over the fries, or toss them lightly in a bowl for even coverage.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your Pesto Sweet Potato Fries warm with extra pesto on the side for dipping. Enjoy this vibrant, delicious dish that combines the sweetness of the fries with a herby, garlicky punch from the pesto!
These Pesto Sweet Potato Fries are sure to be a hit at your table, making for an impressive snack or side dish! Happy cooking! 🥔🌿
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes add a unique sweetness, you can use regular white or yellow potatoes if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Fries?
Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispness.
Can I Make the Pesto Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the pesto in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. To prevent browning, drizzle a little olive oil on top before sealing.
How Can I Make These Fries Spicy?
If you’re looking to add some heat, toss the sweet potatoes with a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes before baking them. This will give them a nice kick!
