Grilled Parmesan Potatoes and Carrots

The aroma of sizzling butter mingling with earthy potatoes and sweet carrots is a scent that immediately transports me back to summer evenings spent with my family. My grandfather, a man who could coax flavor out of the simplest ingredients, used to make a foil packet of grilled vegetables alongside whatever he was grilling – usually steaks or burgers. He always said the secret was good butter, plenty of herbs, and letting the vegetables steam in their own juices, intensifying their natural sweetness. This recipe is my homage to those evenings, a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 60-65 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 6 small red potatoes, about 3/4 lb, unpeeled, cut into 1-1 1/2 ” pcs..about 2 cups
• 1 cup ready to eat baby carrots, cut in half lengthwise if large
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1⁄2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1⁄2 teaspoon peppered seasoning salt
• 2 tablespoons shredded fresh parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Equipment Needed

• Gas or charcoal grill
• Heavy-duty aluminum foil (18×12″ sheet)

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your gas or charcoal grill. For a gas grill, aim for medium heat. For a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are medium-hot and positioned 4-6 inches below the cooking grate.
2. While the grill heats, prepare the foil packet. Cut an 18×12″ sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Using heavy duty foil is important as thinner foil may tear during cooking.
3. In the center of the foil sheet, place the prepared potatoes and carrots. Distribute them evenly.
4. Drizzle the melted butter over the potatoes and carrots. Ensure the vegetables are adequately coated for richness and flavor.
5. Sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning and peppered seasoning salt evenly over the buttered vegetables.
6. Now, generously sprinkle the shredded fresh parmesan cheese over the vegetables. The parmesan cheese will melt and create a savory crust as the vegetables grill.
7. Using your hands or a spoon, gently stir the potatoes and carrots to mix and coat them evenly with the butter, Italian seasoning, peppered seasoning salt, and parmesan cheese.
8. Wrap the foil packet securely, using double-fold seals on all sides. This will trap the steam and allow the vegetables to cook evenly. Leave some room inside the packet for heat expansion; you don’t want it too tightly sealed.
9. Once the grill is heated, place the foil packet on the grill grate, seam side up. This helps prevent any juices from leaking out. If using a gas grill, place the packet directly over medium heat. If using a charcoal grill, position the packet 4-6 inches above the medium-hot coals.
10. Cook for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender when pierced with a fork. Cooking times may vary depending on your grill and the size of the vegetable pieces.
11. Carefully open the foil packet, being mindful of the escaping steam. The steam will be hot, so it’s best to open it away from your face.
12. Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh chives over the grilled vegetables for a fresh, herbaceous finish.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, consider adding a clove or two of minced garlic to the butter before drizzling it over the vegetables.
• If you prefer a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika along with the Italian seasoning.
• Don’t overcrowd the foil packet. If you’re making a large batch, create multiple packets instead of cramming everything into one. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
• To ensure even cooking, cut the potatoes and carrots into uniformly sized pieces.
• For a richer flavor, use clarified butter (ghee) instead of regular melted butter.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Grilled Parmesan Potatoes and Carrots immediately after cooking while they are still hot and tender. This dish is a fantastic accompaniment to grilled meats, poultry, or fish. It also makes a delicious side dish for vegetarian meals.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them for a minute or two, or bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Reheating in the oven will help to maintain their texture. Reheating in the original foil packet will also help maintain moisture. I don’t recommend freezing them, as the texture of the potatoes can become mushy.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	259 kcal	N/A
Fat	7g	10%
Saturated Fat	4.2g	21%
Cholesterol	18mg	5%
Sodium	128.1mg	5%
Total Carbohydrate	43.4g	14%
Dietary Fiber	5g	19%
Sugars	4.1g	N/A
Protein	6.3g	12%

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan butter and omit the parmesan cheese, or use a vegan parmesan cheese alternative.
• Different Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli to the foil packet. Adjust the cooking time as needed, based on the vegetables you choose.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano instead of, or in addition to, the Italian seasoning.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I prepare the foil packet ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the foil packet up to a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add the butter just before grilling to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.

Q: Can I use a different type of potato?
A: Absolutely! Yukon gold potatoes or even sweet potatoes would work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How do I know when the vegetables are done?
A: The vegetables are done when they are tender when pierced with a fork. Carefully open the foil packet and test a potato and a carrot to ensure they are cooked through.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded parmesan cheese?
A: While you can, fresh shredded parmesan cheese will melt and taste better. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting as smoothly.

Q: Can I cook this in the oven if I don’t have a grill?
A: Yes, you can bake the foil packet in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Grilled Parmesan Potatoes and Carrots is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients and the joy of cooking outdoors. I encourage you to give it a try, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and vegetables to create your own unique flavor combination. Share your creations and feedback with friends and family – I’m sure they’ll appreciate the deliciousness. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp, dry white wine or a refreshing iced tea. Happy grilling!