Balsamic Grilled Baby Potatoes Recipe

Looking for a delicious and easy side dish that’s packed with flavor? These Balsamic Grilled Baby Potatoes are the perfect addition to any meal. With tender baby potatoes marinated in a tangy balsamic glaze, this dish brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes and adds a smoky, caramelized finish from the grill. 🥔🔥

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Balsamic Grilled Baby Potatoes are a versatile side dish that’s ideal for backyard BBQs, weeknight dinners, or even a special gathering. The balsamic marinade brings out a delightful balance of tangy and sweet flavors, while grilling adds a subtle smokiness and crispy exterior to the tender potatoes.

The History of Grilled Potatoes

Grilled potatoes have been a popular dish in many cultures, enjoyed for their simplicity and ability to pair well with a variety of grilled meats, vegetables, or salads. In Mediterranean cuisine, grilling vegetables with olive oil and herbs is a common practice, and these potatoes take inspiration from that tradition, with a balsamic vinegar twist to elevate the flavors.

Why You’ll Love These Balsamic Grilled Baby Potatoes

These potatoes are easy to make, yet deliver an explosion of flavor. The combination of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and fresh herbs creates a marinade that soaks into the potatoes, infusing them with a rich, tangy taste. Grilling adds a perfect char and crispy texture, making these baby potatoes irresistible. They’re also incredibly versatile and can be paired with grilled chicken, steak, or fish, making them a great go-to side dish.

Main Ingredients of Balsamic Grilled Baby Potatoes

Each ingredient in this recipe works together to bring out the best flavor and texture in the potatoes:

• Baby Potatoes (1 ½ pounds, halved): Small, tender potatoes that grill perfectly, holding their shape while absorbing the flavors of the marinade. Baby red or Yukon gold potatoes work well here.
  • Tip: If baby potatoes aren’t available, you can use regular-sized potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Balsamic Vinegar (¼ cup): Balsamic vinegar adds a tangy sweetness to the marinade, complementing the natural flavor of the potatoes.
  • Tip: For a richer flavor, you can use aged balsamic vinegar, which has a deeper, more concentrated taste.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Olive oil helps coat the potatoes and prevents them from sticking to the grill, while adding a rich, fruity flavor.
  • Tip: For a slightly more intense flavor, use extra virgin olive oil.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic adds a savory, aromatic touch that enhances the balsamic and herb flavors.
  • Substitution: You can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available.
• Fresh Rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped): Rosemary brings a fragrant, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the balsamic vinegar and grilled potatoes.
  • Substitution: You can use dried rosemary if fresh is unavailable, but fresh herbs will provide a more vibrant flavor.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Basic seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the potatoes and the marinade.

Benefits of Ingredients

• Baby Potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins C and B6, and potassium, making them a nutritious and satisfying side dish.
• Balsamic Vinegar contains antioxidants and adds a unique depth of flavor without extra calories or fat.

How to Make Balsamic Grilled Baby Potatoes: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and dry the baby potatoes, then cut them in half to ensure even cooking. If the potatoes are particularly small, you can leave them whole.
   • Tip: Keep the skins on the potatoes for extra texture and nutrition, as baby potatoes have thin, tender skins that don’t need to be peeled.
2. Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. This marinade will give the potatoes their rich flavor.
   • Tip: For an extra punch of flavor, let the garlic sit in the balsamic vinegar for a few minutes before adding the other ingredients. This helps mellow the raw garlic and enhances the overall taste.
3. Marinate the Potatoes: Add the halved baby potatoes to the bowl with the marinade and toss to coat them evenly. Cover the bowl and let the potatoes marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, in the refrigerator.
   • Tip: The longer the potatoes marinate, the more intense the flavor will be. Marinating them overnight is ideal if you have time.
4. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the potatoes from sticking.
   • Tip: If you don’t have a grill, you can roast the potatoes in a 425°F (220°C) oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through.
5. Grill the Potatoes: Skewer the marinated baby potatoes or place them directly on the grill using a grill basket. Grill the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and have a nice char on the outside.
   • Tip: To avoid burning, keep a close eye on the potatoes, especially if grilling directly on the grates. If using skewers, metal ones work best, as wooden skewers can burn unless soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
6. Serve: Transfer the grilled potatoes to a serving platter and garnish with extra fresh rosemary if desired. Serve warm as a side dish to grilled meats, fish, or alongside a fresh salad.
   • Tip: For added brightness, drizzle a little extra balsamic vinegar or squeeze fresh lemon juice over the potatoes before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Balsamic Grilled Baby Potatoes

• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: Marinating the potatoes for at least 30 minutes will ensure they absorb the balsamic and herb flavors, but letting them sit overnight will intensify the taste even more.
• Use a Grill Basket: A grill basket or skewers help prevent the potatoes from falling through the grates, especially if they are small or cut into smaller pieces.
• Serve Fresh and Hot: These potatoes are best enjoyed right off the grill while they’re still warm and crispy on the outside.

Frequently Asked Questions About Balsamic Grilled Baby Potatoes

Can I make this recipe with larger potatoes?
Yes! You can use larger potatoes like Yukon gold or russet potatoes. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly on the grill.

How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the grill?
Make sure to oil the grill grates lightly before cooking, and toss the potatoes in olive oil as part of the marinade. You can also use a grill basket or skewers to keep the potatoes from sticking to the grates.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs, though fresh herbs will provide a more vibrant flavor. If using dried herbs, use about half the amount called for in the recipe, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

What can I serve with balsamic grilled potatoes?
These potatoes pair well with grilled chicken, steak, fish, or even roasted vegetables. They also work well as part of a larger Mediterranean-inspired meal with hummus, pita bread, and a fresh salad.

Can I make these potatoes in the oven instead of on the grill?
Absolutely! Roast the potatoes in a 425°F (220°C) oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning

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