There is nothing quite like the crispy, golden goodness of Rosemary Straw Potatoes with Lemon Salt Recipe to brighten up any meal. This dish combines perfectly fried julienned potatoes infused with the fragrant touch of fresh rosemary and topped with a uniquely tangy lemon salt that takes simple fries to a whole new level of flavor. Whether you’re craving a comforting snack or an impressive side dish, this recipe delivers a burst of texture and zest that will have everyone reaching for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but play absolutely essential roles in creating the dish’s unforgettable taste and crunch. Each component is chosen not only for flavor but also for texture and aromatic appeal, making the whole process rewarding and delicious.
- Zest of one lemon: Provides the vibrant citrus fragrance that brightens the salty finish with a fresh twist.
- 4 tablespoons sea salt: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural potato flavor while balancing the lemon’s acidity.
- Sunflower oil (or a mix of canola and vegetable oil): Offers a high smoke point for perfectly crispy frying without overpowering the subtle rosemary notes.
- 1 3/4 lb. potatoes, julienned (Yukon Gold, unpeeled): These tender yet sturdy potatoes give that ideal straw shape and golden color when fried.
- Few sprigs of rosemary: Adds a fragrant, herbaceous depth that complements the earthy potato beautifully.
How to Make Rosemary Straw Potatoes with Lemon Salt Recipe
Step 1: Make the Lemon Salt
Begin with zesting a fresh lemon and combining it with sea salt. Use a mortar and pestle to grind the zest and salt into a fine mixture. This lemon salt is the star seasoning that transforms ordinary fries into something extraordinary. If time allows, let it dry for a couple of hours to deepen its flavor and texture — patience will reward your palate.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Pour 2 to 3 inches of sunflower oil into a deep pan and heat it to 350°F. This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crispness without burning the potatoes. Using the right oil and heat ensures your Rosemary Straw Potatoes with Lemon Salt Recipe come out light, crunchy, and golden every time.
Step 3: Fry the Potatoes
After julienning your potatoes into thin, uniform ‘straw’ shapes, pat them dry meticulously. Removing excess moisture prevents splattering and helps get a crisp, beautiful fry. Fry the potatoes in batches to avoid crowding the pan, which could lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fries. During the last 30 seconds of frying, toss in sprigs of rosemary so their aroma infuses the oil and the potatoes without overpowering them.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Once golden and crisp, transfer the potatoes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Sprinkle generously with the prepared lemon salt while still hot, allowing the seasoning to stick and complement that fresh rosemary aroma. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor — these fries are nothing short of addictive!
How to Serve Rosemary Straw Potatoes with Lemon Salt Recipe
Garnishes
To make your presentation pop, consider adding a few fresh rosemary sprigs or a light dusting of extra lemon zest over the top. Even a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper pairs beautifully with the lemon salt, adding another layer of flavor without stealing the spotlight.
Side Dishes
These Rosemary Straw Potatoes with Lemon Salt Recipe are wonderfully versatile as a side. They pair perfectly with grilled chicken or fish, bringing a crisp, herb-infused touch to richer mains. They are also fantastic alongside a fresh green salad, balancing comfort and freshness on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these potatoes in small, rustic cones made of parchment paper or in mini cast-iron skillets. You could also create a composed plate with dipping sauces such as garlic aioli or a zesty lemon-herb mayonnaise, inviting your guests to customize every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. While they won’t be quite as crispy the next day, the flavors of rosemary and lemon salt remain delightful. Proper storage helps maintain their delicious aroma and taste.
Freezing
These potatoes are best enjoyed fresh and fried just before serving, so freezing is not recommended for maintaining their crispy texture. However, you can freeze the julienned potatoes before frying if you want to prep in advance. Simply freeze them spread out on a tray, then transfer to a bag once solid.
Reheating
To bring back some crispness, reheat leftover Rosemary Straw Potatoes with Lemon Salt Recipe in a hot oven or air fryer rather than the microwave. This method revives the texture beautifully without drying out the potatoes or fading the vibrant lemon salt flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold are ideal for their balance of starch and moisture, russets or red potatoes can work well too. Just make sure to julienne them thinly and dry them thoroughly for best frying results.
What can I substitute for the rosemary?
If you don’t have rosemary on hand, thyme or sage can be interesting alternatives, providing a different but equally fragrant herbal note to your dish.
Is it necessary to use sunflower oil?
Sunflower oil is recommended for its high smoke point and neutral flavor, but you can also use other neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil as noted in the recipe. Avoid olive oil as it has a lower smoke point and strong flavor that might overwhelm the dish.
How long does the lemon salt keep?
If dried properly, your lemon salt can last for several weeks stored in an airtight container at room temperature, making it a fantastic seasoning to have ready for other dishes too.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan as it relies on simple plant-based ingredients. Just ensure your frying oil is plant-based, and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to transform humble potatoes into a vibrant, crave-worthy delight, don’t hesitate to try the Rosemary Straw Potatoes with Lemon Salt Recipe. It’s a dish full of personality, warmth, and just enough elegance to make any meal feel special. Once you taste the crispy texture combined with that unique lemony saltiness and aromatic rosemary, you’ll have a new favorite snack or side that’s impossible not to love.
Print
Rosemary Straw Potatoes with Lemon Salt Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy rosemary-infused straw potatoes seasoned with a zesty homemade lemon salt, perfect as a flavorful side dish or snack. This easy recipe combines the fresh aroma of rosemary with a bright lemon twist, delivering a delightful balance of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Lemon Salt
- Zest of one lemon
- 4 tablespoons sea salt (adjust to taste)
Frying
- Sunflower oil (or a mix of canola and vegetable oil), enough for deep frying (2-3 inches)
- 1 3/4 lb. Yukon Gold potatoes, julienned (unpeeled)
- Few sprigs of fresh rosemary
Instructions
- Make the Lemon Salt: In a mortar and pestle, grind the lemon zest and sea salt together until the mixture becomes fine and well combined. Set it aside or leave it to dry for a couple of hours to intensify the flavors.
- Heat Oil: Pour 2-3 inches of oil into a deep pan and heat it to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for deep frying the potatoes.
- Fry Potatoes: Pat the julienned potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Fry them in batches in the hot oil until they turn golden brown and crisp. Add the rosemary sprigs into the oil during the last 30 seconds of frying to infuse aroma and flavor.
- Season and Serve: Once fried, drain the potatoes on paper towels to remove excess oil. While still hot, sprinkle generously with the prepared lemon salt and serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and excellent frying quality.
- Ensure potatoes are completely dry before frying to avoid oil splatter and soggy fries.
- Adjust the amount of lemon salt according to your taste preference.
- Fresh rosemary imparts a fragrant aroma, but you can substitute with dried rosemary if fresh is unavailable.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for optimal crispiness and to prevent greasiness.
