Herb-Infused Salt-Baked Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A moderate heat will ensure the potatoes cook through and develop that perfectly crispy skin.

2. Prepare the Potatoes:

• Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel. You can leave the skins on to enhance the texture and flavor of the dish.

3. Make the Herb-Infused Salt:

• In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme. Mix together, then set aside.

4. Coat the Potatoes:

• Rub the olive oil over each potato to help the seasoning adhere. Then, sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Once coated with oil, press the herb mixture onto each potato, ensuring it sticks to the skin.

5. Prepare the Baking Dish:

• In a large baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet, spread out the coarse sea salt evenly to create a bed for the potatoes. The salt helps keep the moisture in and creates a crispy exterior while infusing the potatoes with extra flavor as they bake.

6. Bake the Potatoes:

• Place the seasoned potatoes directly on top of the salt bed. Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the skins are golden and crisp.

7. Serve:

• Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly before cutting into them. The salt crust can be gently cracked open to reveal the fluffy potato inside.

  To serve: Top each potato with a dollop of sour cream, and garnish with freshly chopped chives. The creamy sour cream complements the crispy, salty skin and fluffy interior, while the chives add a refreshing pop of color and flavor.

Variations and Tips:

• Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Add shredded cheese, bacon bits, or a drizzle of olive oil and parmesan for extra flavor.
• Roasted Garlic: For an extra burst of flavor, roast the garlic before mixing it with the herbs for a sweeter, more mellow taste.
• Herb Variations: You can also use other fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or sage in place of rosemary or thyme for a different twist on the flavor.
• Smaller Potatoes: If you prefer smaller, bite-sized portions, use baby potatoes or fingerling potatoes and reduce the cooking time by about 20 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Perfect Texture: The crispy skin and fluffy interior create the ideal combination of texture in every bite.
• Simple & Elegant: This recipe is a great way to elevate a simple potato into something special without complicated ingredients or techniques.
• Full of Flavor: The garlic, rosemary, and thyme soak into the potatoes, giving them a depth of flavor that makes them stand out as a side dish or a meal on their own.

Final Thoughts:

Herb-Infused Salt-Baked Potatoes are a fantastic way to enjoy potatoes with a burst of flavor and an irresistible texture. Whether you’re serving them as a side to roasted meats, a vegetarian main dish, or simply enjoying them with your favorite toppings, this recipe brings comfort food to the next level. The crispy salt crust, tender inside, and fresh herbs make it an unforgettable dish that’s sure to impress at any table