Summer is synonymous with grilling, and while steaks, burgers, and kebabs often steal the spotlight, there’s a small yet mighty contender that deserves its moment in the sun: baby potatoes.
Grilling baby potatoes is a breeze, making them the perfect side dish for any summer cookout. Unlike larger potatoes that require parboiling or lengthy cooking times, baby potatoes cook quickly and evenly on the grill, thanks to their small size. With just a few simple steps, you can achieve tender, flavorful potatoes with a delightful smoky char.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Baby Potatoes
Achieving perfectly grilled baby potatoes is easier than you might think, especially with these handy tips:
Choose the Right Potatoes
Look for baby potatoes that are uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Red or yellow baby potatoes work well for grilling, as they hold their shape and have a creamy texture.
Precook if Necessary
While baby potatoes can be grilled directly on the grate, parboiling them for a few minutes beforehand can help speed up the cooking process and ensure they’re tender on the inside.
Season Generously
Baby potatoes have a mild flavor, so don’t be afraid to season them generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. A drizzle of olive oil or melted butter will also help prevent them from sticking to the grill and add richness to the final dish.
Use Indirect Heat
To prevent the potatoes from burning, cook them over indirect heat on the grill. This means placing them away from the flames or using a two-zone grilling setup.
Keep an Eye on Them
Baby potatoes cook relatively quickly on the grill, so be sure to keep a close eye on them and flip them occasionally to ensure even browning. They’re done when they’re fork-tender and golden brown on the outside.
Best Dishes for Grilled Baby Potatoes
Grilled baby potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Grilled Potato Salad
Toss grilled baby potatoes with a tangy dressing, crispy bacon, diced onions, and fresh herbs for a smoky twist on classic potato salad.
Skewered Potatoes
Thread grilled baby potatoes onto skewers with chunks of bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for colorful and flavorful veggie kebabs.
Loaded Potato Bites
Cut grilled baby potatoes in half and top them with sour cream, shredded cheese, crispy bacon, and chives for bite-sized appetizers that are sure to impress.
Potato Hash
Chop grilled baby potatoes into bite-sized pieces and sauté them with onions, bell peppers, and sausage for a hearty and satisfying breakfast hash.
Grilling baby potatoes is a simple yet satisfying way to elevate your summer cookouts. With their quick cooking time and endless versatility, these petite spuds are sure to become a staple on your grill all season long. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, salad, or appetizer, they are guaranteed to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. So, fire up the grill, grab a bag of baby potatoes, and get ready to enjoy the smoky goodness of summer!
