These Pesto Sweet Potato Fries are a tasty twist on the classic favorite. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they are tossed in flavorful pesto that makes them extra special!
Every bite is a little party of flavors! I like to serve them with a side of ketchup or yogurt. It’s a fun and exciting way to enjoy sweet potatoes—definitely a hit with my friends! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are sweet and creamy when cooked. If you can’t find them, butternut squash or regular potatoes can work too. They’ll offer different flavors but still result in tasty fries!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives great flavor and helps the fries crisp up. If you want a lighter option, you can use avocado oil or canola oil as a substitute.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for your pesto’s flavor. If it’s not in season, consider using spinach or arugula. They add a fresh twist, and you won’t lose the green color!
Nuts: Pine nuts are traditional in pesto, but walnuts or almonds can easily stand in. They add a crunchy texture. About half a cup should be enough!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Crispiness for Sweet Potato Fries?
Getting sweet potato fries perfectly crispy can be tricky. Here’s how to ensure you get that amazing crunch!
- Cut the fries evenly (about 1/2 inch thick) to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Coat them lightly with oil and season well. Too much oil can make them soggy.
- Spread them out on the baking sheet without crowding. This allows hot air to circulate around each fry.
- Flip them halfway through baking for even cooking.
- You can even finish under the broiler for a minute for extra crispiness, but watch them carefully!
Enjoy making these Pesto Sweet Potato Fries! They’re a great side dish or a delicious snack.
Pesto Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sweet Potato Fries:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, washed and cut into fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
For the Pesto:
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for pesto)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 30-35 minutes to cook, giving you tasty fries that are ready in no time! You’ll spend a bit of time chopping, mixing, and baking, but I promise it’s worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your fries will cook evenly and get nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and cut the sweet potatoes into evenly sized fries, aiming for about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them all cook at the same rate for even crispiness!
3. Season the Fries:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the fries are coated evenly!
4. Arrange for Baking:
Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Be careful not to overcrowd them, as this can prevent them from getting crispy.
5. Bake the Fries:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Be sure to flip the fries halfway through to ensure they are crispy on the outside and tender inside.
6. Make the Pesto:
While the fries are baking, it’s time to whip up the pesto! In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, parsley (if using), grated Parmesan, pine nuts or walnuts, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Pulse everything until finely chopped.
7. Blend in the Olive Oil:
With the motor running, slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup of olive oil until the pesto is smooth and spreadable. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
8. Combine Fries and Pesto:
Once your fries are done baking, transfer them to a plate. Immediately toss them with the fresh pesto or drizzle it on top to coat them deliciously.
9. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, garnish with extra fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a beautiful finish. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful Pesto Sweet Potato Fries!
Dig in and enjoy this vibrant and tasty dish! Perfect as a snack or a tasty side!
Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. They will have a different flavor profile, but they’ll still be delicious. Just remember to adjust cooking time if needed since regular potatoes may cook faster.
How Can I Store Leftover Pesto Sweet Potato Fries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes for better crispiness, rather than microwaving.
Can I Make the Pesto Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pesto a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. Just give it a good stir before using!
What Can I Serve with Pesto Sweet Potato Fries?
These fries are great on their own, but you can pair them with a dipping sauce like ketchup, garlic aioli, or even a yogurt-based dip for added flavor. They also make a great side dish with grilled chicken or a fresh salad!
