These Pesto Sweet Potato Fries are a crunchy and tasty treat! They are sweet, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, thanks to the delicious mix of sweet potatoes and pesto.
Honestly, who thought fries could be this fancy? I love dipping them in extra pesto—it’s the best combo! Perfect for snacking or as a side dish. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: The star of this recipe! Look for firm, medium to large sweet potatoes. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cut sweet potato fries available in stores. Regular potatoes can work too, but you’ll miss the sweet flavor.
Olive Oil: This not only helps crisp the fries but also adds flavor. Feel free to substitute avocado oil or even coconut oil for a different taste. Don’t skip the oil, though—it’s key for that crunch!
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto saves time, but homemade is always great if you have the extra energy. You could swap it out with other pestos, like sun-dried tomato or spinach pesto, for a fun twist.
Salt: Flaky sea salt enhances flavors beautifully. If you don’t have it, regular salt works fine! Additionally, consider adding garlic powder or smoked paprika for more depth.
How Can I Make My Sweet Potato Fries Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispiness is all about cooking temperature and technique! Here are my tips:
- Preheat your oven thoroughly to 425°F (220°C) so the fries start cooking right away.
- Make sure the fries are cut evenly and not too thick—for even cooking and crisping.
- Ensure they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will steam them instead of crisping.
- Toss them in oil but don’t overdo it; too much can lead to sogginess instead of crispiness.
- Flipping them halfway through cooking helps them brown evenly.
Following these tips will give you that crunchy texture and pair beautifully with pesto!
Pesto Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, washed and cut into thick fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste (preferably flaky sea salt)
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: cracked black pepper, for seasoning
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need 25-30 minutes for baking. In total, you can have these delicious fries on your table in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This hot temperature will help the fries become crispy! While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy clean-up.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash your sweet potatoes thoroughly and then cut them into thick fries. You can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients—plus, it’s easier!
3. Coat with Olive Oil:
Put the cut sweet potato fries into a large bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil and toss gently until all the fries are evenly coated. This will help them get nice and crispy when baking.
4. Bake the Fries:
Spread the sweet potato fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they have space between them, so they aren’t overcrowded—this helps them crisp up nicely. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Season and Serve:
Once the fries are tender and crisp, remove them from the oven. Season with salt to taste right away, while they’re still hot. Drizzle or spoon basil pesto over the fries, or place it in a small bowl on the side for dipping. If you like, sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper on top for extra flavor.
6. Enjoy!
Serve the Pesto Sweet Potato Fries warm and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet, savory, and herby flavors! They make a fantastic side dish or a yummy snack!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use regular russet or Yukon gold potatoes if you prefer. Keep in mind that the flavor will differ, as sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness that complements the pesto nicely.
How Can I Make These Fries Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly as long as you opt for a vegan-friendly pesto. Check the ingredients of store-bought pesto or make your own with basil, nuts, garlic, and olive oil to ensure it’s plant-based!
Can I Prepare the Fries in Advance?
Absolutely! You can cut the sweet potatoes and toss them in olive oil the night before. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Bake them fresh the next day for the best texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Fries?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that crispy texture again!