There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of roasting potatoes filling the kitchen, and this recipe for Zesty Parmesan Ranch Potato Wedges takes me back to a particular evening with my family. It was one of those late summer nights where the sun hung lazily in the sky, casting a golden glow across the backyard. We had just returned from a long day at the local farmer’s market, baskets overflowing with fresh produce and a sense of accomplishment that only comes from supporting local farmers.
My children, with dirt still clinging to their fingers from digging through the potato bins, were excited to help me in the kitchen. Cooking together has always been a family tradition, a way to unwind and reconnect after busy weeks. As we washed and sliced the potatoes, I could see the excitement in their eyes, knowing that their small hands had chosen each potato now being transformed into something delicious.
This recipe, though simple, carries the essence of those moments. The combination of ranch seasoning and Parmesan cheese brings out the best in the humble potato, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. The tangy zest of the ranch seasoning is perfectly balanced by the nutty richness of the Parmesan, while the crispy edges of the wedges offer that delightful crunch we all crave.
I remember setting the table outside, the evening air warm and fragrant with the scents of our garden. We sat together, under the twinkling lights my husband had hung up just a few days earlier, and dug into the hot, crispy potato wedges. Each bite was met with appreciative murmurs, the kind of sound that only comes when food is shared with those you love. The wedges were a hit, their savory flavor pairing perfectly with the homemade grilled chicken we served alongside them.
As the sun dipped below the horizon and the first stars began to appear, I felt a deep sense of contentment. It wasn’t just the food—it was the experience of creating something simple yet delicious with my family. This recipe for Zesty Parmesan Ranch Potato Wedges isn’t just a dish; it’s a reminder of the joy that comes from shared meals and the memories that are created around the dinner table.
Making Zesty Parmesan Ranch Potato Wedges
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Ingredients
- 2 lbs of potatoes, cut into wedges
- 2 to 4 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 packet of Hidden Valley® Ranch Greek Yogurt Dip
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt
- Pepper
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the potato wedges in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss the potatoes until they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the ranch dip mix over the potatoes, making sure to mix well so that each wedge is thoroughly seasoned.
- Spread the seasoned potato wedges onto a lightly greased baking sheet in a single layer.
- Top the potatoes with grated Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy. Larger wedges may need a few extra minutes in the oven, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftover potato wedges in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through and crispy.
Cooking Tips
For an extra crispy texture, soak the potato wedges in cold water for 30 minutes before baking. This helps to remove some of the starch. Also, try adding a sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder for an additional flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these potato wedges as a side dish with grilled meats, or enjoy them on their own with a dipping sauce like ketchup or aioli. A cold beverage, such as iced tea or lemonade, pairs well with this dish.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, try using fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme along with the ranch seasoning. In the winter, add a touch of smoked paprika for a warm, comforting flavor.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy in the form of Parmesan cheese and the ranch dip mix. To make it dairy-free, substitute the cheese with a vegan alternative and use a dairy-free ranch seasoning.
FAQ:
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used in place of regular potatoes. The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them while baking.
How can I make these potato wedges spicier?
You can add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix to give the wedges a spicy kick.
Can I prepare the potato wedges in advance?
Yes, you can cut and season the potato wedges ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I do if my potato wedges are not crispy?
If your wedges aren’t crispy, try increasing the oven temperature slightly or baking them on a wire rack to allow better air circulation.
Can I freeze leftover potato wedges?
While it’s possible to freeze leftover wedges, they may lose some of their texture. If you do freeze them, reheat them in the oven to regain some crispiness.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
For a healthier version, reduce the amount of oil and cheese, and consider using a light or fat-free ranch seasoning mix.
Zesty Parmesan Ranch Potato Wedges
Ingredients
- 2 lbs of potatoes cut into wedges
- 2 to 4 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 packet of Hidden Valley® Ranch Greek Yogurt Dip
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Begin by heating your oven to 425°F.
- Place the potato wedges in a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil, tossing them to ensure even coating.
- Add the ranch dip mix to the bowl and stir to distribute the seasoning across the potatoes.
- Arrange the coated wedges on a baking sheet that has been lightly greased. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top, and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Bake in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the potatoes achieve a golden brown color. Note that larger wedges might require a bit more time—just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
