Savory Herb Airfryer Potatoes

Choosing the Right Potatoes

For this recipe, baby potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture and compact size, which enhance the crispy outside and tender inside we aim for. If baby potatoes aren't available, consider using Yukon Gold or new potatoes, as they will provide a similar buttery flavor and texture. It’s important to cut them in half to ensure even cooking, which maximizes the crispy surface area while maintaining their natural moisture.

If you're looking to mix things up, try a medley of potatoes. Red, white, and purple potatoes can add not only color but also slight variations in taste and texture. Each type will still yield that fantastic combination of crispiness and tenderness when cooked in the air fryer.

Herb Selection and Flavor Profiles

Fresh herbs are a game-changer in this recipe, and you can easily customize the flavor profile. While rosemary and thyme pair beautifully with the potatoes, feel free to experiment with other herbs like dill or parsley for a different twist. Just remember, fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor compared to dried ones, so if you only have dried herbs, use about one-third of the amount listed.

Chopping the herbs finely will help release their essential oils, ensuring their flavors infuse the potatoes evenly. For a bolder flavor, consider increasing the amount of garlic powder or mixing in a clove of minced garlic. This can add another layer of savory depth that complements the earthy qualities of the potatoes.

Tips for Getting the Crispiness Just Right

To achieve the perfect crispy layer on your air fryer potatoes, make sure they are well-coated with olive oil. The oil acts as a conductor for heat, helping to achieve that desirable golden brown crisp outside. If you notice they aren’t crisping up as expected, check the air fryer’s temperature and ensure it’s preheated properly before adding the potatoes.

If you're preparing a larger batch, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can lead to steaming rather than frying. Cook in batches if necessary, and keep the first batch warm in an oven set to low heat (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish cooking the others. This will ensure that all the potatoes come out nice and crunchy.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the air fryer potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispiness, avoid stacking them; instead, place them in a single layer. When reheating, pop them back into the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to revive their crunch, rather than using a microwave, which can make them soggy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked potatoes. Flash-freeze them on a baking sheet so they don’t stick together, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to two months. When ready to serve, you can air fry them directly from frozen, increasing the cooking time by about 10 minutes.

Pairing Suggestions

These savory herb air fryer potatoes make a versatile side dish that pairs well with just about any protein. They complement grilled meats wonderfully, such as chicken, steak, or fish. My personal favorite is to serve them alongside grilled lemon herb chicken, where the zesty flavors mesh beautifully with the herb-infused potatoes.

For a vegetarian option, serve the potatoes as part of a hearty salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. The crispy potatoes add a satisfying texture to the fresh ingredients and make the dish more filling. You can also sprinkle some feta cheese over the top for a burst of salty flavor that enhances the overall experience.