These Pesto Sweet Potato Fries are a fun twist on your regular fries. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they’re tossed in bright and delicious pesto for an extra kick!
I love serving them as a snack or side dish. They make everything more colorful on the dinner table. Plus, who can resist sweet potatoes and pesto? It’s a match made in foodie heaven! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the dish! They’re naturally sweet and provide a great texture. If you’re out of sweet potatoes, regular potatoes or even butternut squash can work.
Olive Oil: You’ll need this for roasting the fries. For a different flavor, feel free to use avocado oil or even melted coconut oil. Both options add a unique twist.
Fresh Basil: Pesto wouldn’t be complete without fresh basil! If you can’t find basil, try using spinach or arugula for a different flavor, but the taste will be different.
Pine Nuts: These nuts add a lovely richness to the pesto. Walnuts or even almonds are good substitutes if you have allergies or want a different flavor profile.
Parmesan Cheese: A classic in pesto! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can be a great substitute, offering a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Ensure My Sweet Potato Fries Are Crispy?
Getting crisp fries is all about the balance of moisture and heat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cut the sweet potatoes evenly to promote even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give them space so air can circulate around each fry.
- Flipping them halfway through baking helps achieve that perfect crisp on both sides.
- Let them rest a minute after baking. This helps them crisp up a bit more as they cool slightly.
Following these tips will help you serve up fries that are both crispy and delicious! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
How to Make Pesto Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves (optional, for added freshness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts as a substitute)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, so set aside about 35 minutes total. In no time, you’ll have a delicious crunchy snack or side dish to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will help your sweet potato fries get nice and crispy. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the cut sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure every fry is well-coated, allowing for maximum flavor and crispiness!
3. Bake the Fries:
Spread the sweet potato fries out evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding them; this ensures they cook properly. Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning the fries halfway through to ensure even browning. They’re done when they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
4. Make the Pesto:
While your fries are baking, it’s time to whip up some fresh pesto. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, parsley (if using), Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and minced garlic. Pulse everything together until it’s coarsely chopped.
5. Blend the Pesto:
With the food processor running, slowly add the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and emulsified. If you like, add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness and blend briefly. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When the fries are ready, transfer them to a serving dish and drizzle the fresh pesto over them. Alternatively, you can serve the pesto on the side for dipping. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a pinch of flaky sea salt on top adds a lovely finishing touch!
These Pesto Sweet Potato Fries are not just tasty; they are colorful and packed with flavor! Enjoy them while they’re hot for the best experience! 😊
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While sweet potatoes are recommended for their natural sweetness, you can use regular potatoes or even butternut squash as a delicious alternative. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may vary.
How Do I Store Leftover Fries?
To store leftover fries, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help restore their crispiness.
Can I Make the Pesto Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pesto in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. To help prevent browning, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing the container.
How Can I Make This Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Your pesto will still be delicious and full of flavor!