Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes

Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes

When I think of comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is my Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes. Imagine returning home after a long day, greeted by the warm scent of potatoes cooking on the grill, infused with the zesty brightness of lemon and the freshness of parsley. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also brings a delightful twist to your traditional potato recipes. I remember the first time I made these foil packet potatoes for a family barbecue; they were gone before I could even sit down to enjoy my own plate! The best part? Clean-up is a breeze since everything cooks in one packet.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
180 kcal
Protein:
2 g
Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
Fat:
4 g
Tools Used:
Oven, Grater, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes

Flavor Explosion

One of the reasons I absolutely adore Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes is the explosion of flavors. The combination of fresh lemon zest and parsley elevates the humble potato, turning it into a gourmet side dish that can stand up to any main course. It’s a taste that lingers on your palate and leaves you wanting more.

Effortless Cooking

This recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. You just toss the ingredients together, seal them in foil, and let the grill do the work. It’s the ideal recipe for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want to enjoy good food without the fuss.

Versatile Pairing

Another great aspect of these potatoes is their versatility. They pair beautifully with grilled meats like chicken or fish, making them perfect for summer barbecues or family gatherings. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad for a light and healthy meal.

Healthy Comfort Food

If you’re looking for a side that’s rich in flavor but not heavy on calories, Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes are a fantastic choice. With wholesome ingredients, they provide comfort without the guilt. Plus, potatoes are packed with nutrients, making this dish a nourishing option for any meal.

Fun for All Ages

Kids and adults alike love these foil packet potatoes. The fun of unwrapping the foil adds an element of surprise, and the delicious aroma that wafts through the air as they cook is sure to entice everyone to gather around the table. It’s a great way to engage kids in cooking; they can even help with assembling the packets!

Simple Clean-Up

Let’s face it, no one enjoys doing dishes after a nice meal. The beauty of this recipe is that it requires minimal clean-up. Everything is contained within the foil, which means less time scrubbing pots and pans and more time enjoying your meal.

Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes Ingredients

Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes

The beauty of the ingredients in Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes lies in their simplicity and synergy. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. The key players include the starchy potatoes, which provide a comforting base, and the vibrant lemon and parsley that add brightness and freshness.

  • 16 ounces baby red or Yukon Gold potatoes, quartered – These tender, buttery potatoes are perfect for grilling, holding their shape while cooking to a fluffy interior.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds richness and helps in evenly cooking the potatoes while enhancing their flavor.
  • Kosher salt, to taste – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the potatoes and the freshness of the herbs.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle depth of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
  • Black pepper, to taste – Provides a mild heat that balances the other flavors.
  • Grated lemon zest of 1/2 lemon, 1/2 teaspoon – The star ingredient that brightens the dish and adds a refreshing citrus note.
  • 1/2 tablespoon finely chopped flat-leaf parsley – This fresh herb adds color and a burst of freshness that complements the lemon.
  • 1 piece Reynolds Wrap heavy-duty foil, 18 x 18 inches – Necessary for creating the perfect cooking packet that keeps all the flavors contained.

Making This Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes

Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes

Creating Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes is a delightful experience that brings the flavors of the outdoors right to your kitchen or grill. Let’s dive into the steps to achieve the perfect foil packet potatoes that are bursting with flavor and sure to impress.

  1. Start by preparing your potatoes. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor. You want to see a nice sheen on the potatoes, indicating they’ve absorbed the oil and seasonings.
  2. Next, lay out your heavy-duty foil on a flat surface. Cut a piece measuring approximately 18 x 18 inches, ensuring there’s enough room to fold the edges securely. This step is crucial to keep all the steam and flavors locked inside.
  3. Now, take the bowl of seasoned potatoes and transfer them to the center of the foil. Be sure to spread them out evenly; this will help them cook uniformly. Look for a nice arrangement where each piece is lying flat, allowing for even cooking.
  4. It’s time to fold the foil. Bring the short ends together and fold them over twice to create a sealed packet. Then fold the long edges over to ensure there are no gaps for steam to escape. You should see the packet puffing slightly, which indicates that it’s sealed well.
  5. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Once it’s hot, place the foil packet on the grill grates. The sizzling sound as it hits the heat is music to any cook’s ears!
  6. Cook the potatoes for about thirty minutes, shaking the packet every ten minutes to ensure even cooking. As the packet cooks, you’ll want to keep an eye on it; the smell will start to waft, tempting everyone nearby. Look for the foil to puff up slightly, which is a sign that they’re steaming beautifully.
  7. After thirty minutes, carefully open the packet. Watch out for the steam that escapes! You’ll want to check the potatoes for tenderness; they should be easily pierced with a fork.
  8. If they’re not quite done, you can place them back on the grill for an additional five to ten minutes. Once finished, top the potatoes with a sprinkle of kosher salt, lemon zest, and parsley for that fresh finishing touch.
  9. Serve your Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes immediately, either directly from the foil or transferred to a serving dish. Enjoy the flavors that await!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Cooking Time Tips: Cooking times can vary based on the size of your potato pieces. If you cut them smaller, they will cook faster. Keep an eye on them!
  • Foil Selection: Always go for heavy-duty foil. It can withstand higher temperatures and prevents tearing during grilling.
  • Flavor Variations: Feel free to add other herbs like rosemary or thyme for a personal touch. They pair wonderfully with the lemon.
  • Grill vs. Oven: If grilling isn’t an option, you can bake these packets in a preheated oven at 400°F for 35 to 40 minutes.
  • Serving Suggestion: These potatoes are great as a side dish or even as a light main course if you add a protein!

Substitutions and Tips

Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes

While the original recipe for Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes is delicious as is, I love to share some tips that can help you customize it to your taste. Here are some ideas to keep in mind while preparing this dish.

  • Storage: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
  • Freezing: You can freeze these potatoes before cooking. Just assemble the foil packets and place them in the freezer. When ready to cook, grill them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  • Pairing: These potatoes are fantastic alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh salad. They’re also perfect for picnics or potlucks!
  • Flavor Boost: For an extra tangy kick, drizzle some lemon juice over the potatoes just before serving.
  • Herb Variations: Don’t hesitate to try other herbs such as dill or chives instead of parsley to switch up the flavor profile.
  • Cooking Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can use a microwave to cook the potatoes for 10 to 15 minutes before sealing them in the foil and finishing them on the grill.

Great Combinations for Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes

When it comes to serving Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes, the possibilities are endless. Here are some fantastic ideas to make your meal even better:

  • With Grilled Meats: These potatoes complement grilled chicken, beef, or fish wonderfully, adding a satisfying side that everyone will love.
  • Salads: Pair them with a light green salad or a refreshing cucumber salad for a balanced meal.
  • Picnic Perfection: They make a great addition to any picnic or barbecue spread, easy to transport and share.
  • Flavorful Sauces: Serve with a dipping sauce like aioli or a yogurt sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Seasonal Dishes: These potatoes shine in spring and summer but can also be enjoyed in fall with roasted vegetables.
  • Breakfast Option: Leftover potatoes can be transformed into a great breakfast hash by sautéing with eggs and more parsley.

FAQ

Foil packet potatoes are a method of cooking potatoes wrapped in aluminum foil, often with seasonings and other ingredients, such as herbs or vegetables. This technique helps to steam the potatoes while they cook, locking in flavor and moisture. It’s a popular way to prepare potatoes for grilling or baking, as it simplifies clean-up and allows for easy customization of flavors.

Absolutely! If you prefer not to grill, you can easily make Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the foil packet on a baking sheet. Bake for about 35 to 40 minutes, shaking the packet halfway through for even cooking. Just be cautious when opening the packet, as hot steam will escape!

Baby red or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture when cooked. They hold up well during grilling or baking, ensuring that they remain tender without falling apart. However, you can also use other varieties, such as fingerling potatoes or even larger potatoes cut into appropriate pieces for uniform cooking.

To check if your Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes are done, carefully open the foil packet (watch for the steam). Use a fork to pierce a potato; it should be tender and easily pierced. If they need more time, you can put the packet back on the grill or in the oven for an additional five to ten minutes. The goal is to have them soft but not mushy!

Conclusion

The Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes are a wonderful way to enjoy the comforting taste of potatoes with a fresh twist. They are simple to make, require minimal clean-up, and are versatile enough to pair with almost any meal. I encourage you to try making these potatoes the next time you’re looking for an easy side dish that still feels special. You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can be so delicious!

Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes

Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes

The ultimate comfort food is here with these Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes. Tender, buttery potatoes infused with zesty lemon and fresh parsley create an easy weeknight dinner that's sure to please everyone. Grill or bake them for a deliciously simple side dish that will elevate your meal. Make them tonight for a taste sensation!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Side Dishes
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Grater
  • Baking Sheet
  • Chef's Knife

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces baby red or Yukon Gold potatoes quartered
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest of 1/2 lemon
  • 1/2 tablespoon finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
  • 1 piece Reynolds Wrap heavy-duty foil 18 x 18 inches

Instructions
 

  • Start by preparing your potatoes. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
  • Next, lay out your heavy-duty foil on a flat surface. Cut a piece measuring approximately 18 x 18 inches, ensuring there's enough room to fold the edges securely.
  • Take the bowl of seasoned potatoes and transfer them to the center of the foil. Be sure to spread them out evenly; this will help them cook uniformly.
  • It’s time to fold the foil. Bring the short ends together and fold them over twice to create a sealed packet. Then fold the long edges over to ensure there are no gaps for steam to escape.
  • Preheat your grill to medium heat. Once it’s hot, place the foil packet on the grill grates. The sizzling sound as it hits the heat is music to any cook’s ears!
  • Cook the potatoes for about thirty minutes, shaking the packet every ten minutes to ensure even cooking. As the packet cooks, you’ll want to keep an eye on it; the smell will start to waft, tempting everyone nearby.
  • After thirty minutes, carefully open the packet. Watch out for the steam that escapes! You’ll want to check the potatoes for tenderness; they should be easily pierced with a fork.
  • If they’re not quite done, you can place them back on the grill for an additional five to ten minutes.
  • Once finished, top the potatoes with a sprinkle of kosher salt, lemon zest, and parsley for that fresh finishing touch.
  • Serve your Lemon Parsley Foil Packet Potatoes immediately, either directly from the foil or transferred to a serving dish. Enjoy the flavors that await!

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze these potatoes before cooking.
  • Pairing: These potatoes are fantastic alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh salad.
  • Flavor Boost: For an extra tangy kick, drizzle some lemon juice over the potatoes just before serving.
  • Herb Variations: Don’t hesitate to try other herbs such as dill or chives instead of parsley to switch up the flavor profile.
Keyword easy potato side dish, foil packet potatoes, grilled potato recipe, lemon potatoes recipe

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