Southern Style Spanish Potatoes Recipe

There’s something magic about transforming humble baby potatoes into a crispy sensation that’s bursting with smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors—all with minimal fuss and truly addictive results.

I adore crafting recipes that unite brilliant flavors, and my Southern Spanish Potatoes epitomize that. The warmth of smoked paprika, the pungency of garlic, and the sweetness of onion powder transform these baby potatoes into a savory delight.

The hit of cayenne pepper not only spices up the dish but also inverts the flavor pyramid, with the low note of the fresh, slightly nutty flavor of cilantro giving way to the smoothing sensation of warm, somewhat tangy lemon juice. This dish has unforgettable layers of taste and moreover is rich in nutrients like potassium and vitamin C and is well within the reach of everyday cooks.

Ingredients

• Baby Potatoes: Rich in carbohydrates for energy, high in fiber and potassium.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats, helps lower bad cholesterol, adds rich flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: Provides smoky flavor, rich in antioxidants and vitamin A.
• Garlic Powder: Adds depth and aroma, may boost immune function.
• Onion Powder: Enhances flavor with subtle sweetness, contains vitamins C and B.
• Cayenne Pepper: Spicy kick, boosts metabolism, and rich in Vitamin A.
• Cilantro: Optional fresh herb, brightens flavors, may aid digestion.
• Lemon: Adds zest and tang, high in vitamin C, helps enhance flavors.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1.5 pounds of baby potatoes (yellow or red), halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

How to Make this

1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to warm up.

2. Rinse the small potatoes and dry them. Cut the baby potatoes in half.

3. In a big mixing bowl, blend the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

4. Place the potatoes, halved, in the bowl. Toss them thoroughly until they are well coated with the spice mixture.

5. Place the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper or a baking dish that has been lightly greased.

6. Cook the potatoes in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

7. At the midpoint of the time you would normally roast the potatoes, take a spatula and turn the potatoes so that they can continue to roast beautifully and evenly.

8. Take the potatoes out of the oven when they’re done and allow them to cool for a brief period.

9. If you like, you can scatter the freshly chopped cilantro over the roast potatoes just before serving them.

10. Warm, serve the potatoes, accompanied by lemon wedges for squeezing over them just before eating.

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Knife
3. Cutting board
4. Measuring spoons
5. Mixing bowl
6. Baking sheet
7. Parchment paper or a baking dish
8. Spatula

FAQ

• Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?Of course, regular potatoes can be used. Just make sure to chop them into uniformly small pieces so that they cook evenly.
• What can I use instead of smoked paprika?You can use ordinary paprika in its place, but its smoky flavor is what you’ll primarily miss.
• Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?Certainly, you have the option to decrease or completely eliminate the cayenne pepper to better meet your spice comfort level. You will find that the dish remains full of flavor but without the heat intensity that the cayenne delivers.
• Can I prepare this recipe in advance?The potatoes and spices can be prepared ahead of time, but for the most freshness and the best texture, you should cook them just before serving.
• What can I serve with Southern Style Spanish Potatoes?These potatoes go well with grilled meats, seafood, and fresh salads. They are also a great side to have at a barbecue.
• How do I store leftovers?Any remaining food should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can last for up to 3 days. If you want the food to taste as if it was just made, reheat it in the oven.
• Is there a way to make this dish vegan?As it is written, the recipe is already vegan. It uses olive oil and spices to flavor the potatoes.

Southern Style Spanish Potatoes Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Substitute avocado oil or melted coconut oil for olive oil.
Paprika, regular: Mix with a dash of cumin to create a smoked paprika substitute.
Garlic powder: Use in its place 2 cloves of fresh garlic minced.
Onion powder: Substitute with 1/2 small onion, finely chopped.
Red pepper flakes or chili powder: Use a pinch to substitute for cayenne pepper.

Pro Tips

1. Parboil for Extra Crispiness For even crispier potatoes, consider parboiling them for 5 minutes before tossing them in the spice mixture. This helps soften the insides and creates a fluffier texture when roasted.

2. Customize the Spice Mix Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. For a more Mediterranean flavor, add a teaspoon of dried oregano or thyme. For an even smokier taste, increase the smoked paprika.

3. Use Fresh Garlic and Onion For enhanced flavor, substitute the garlic and onion powder with minced fresh garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté them briefly in the olive oil before tossing with the potatoes.

4. Ensure Proper Spacing When placing the potatoes on the baking sheet, ensure they are in a single layer with enough space between each piece. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting, preventing them from becoming crispy.

5. Finish with a Herb Butter Drizzle For an additional layer of flavor, melt some butter and mix it with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives. Drizzle this over the potatoes just before serving for a rich, aromatic touch.