1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and Peel:
- Scrub the potatoes under cold water and peel them. If you prefer, you can leave the skin on for added texture and flavor.
- Cut into Shapes:
- Slice the potatoes into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. You’ll need enough rounds to stack and create the tree shape.
- Create Tree Shapes:
- Using a small star-shaped cookie cutter or knife, cut the potato slices into small Christmas tree shapes. If you don’t have a star-shaped cutter, you can use a knife to cut them into triangles and arrange them to resemble a tree.
2. Season the Potatoes
- Seasoning Mix:
- In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme or rosemary, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Potatoes:
- Toss the potato shapes in the seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated.
3. Air Fry the Potatoes
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes, depending on your air fryer model.
- Arrange Potatoes:
- Place the potato shapes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If necessary, work in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent even cooking.
- Cook:
- Air fry the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The potatoes should be crispy and golden brown.
- Check for Doneness:
- Check the potatoes for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the center. They should be tender and crispy on the outside. If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish:
- Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and arrange them on a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a festive look, and if desired, add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Optional Decorations:
- For a more festive touch, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or finely diced red bell pepper to mimic Christmas tree ornaments.
- Serve:
- Serve the Air Fryer Christmas Tree Potatoes warm as a side dish or appetizer. They pair well with a variety of dips and sauces.
Tips for Success
- Uniform Shapes: Try to cut the potato shapes as uniformly as possible to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure the potato shapes are not overcrowded in the air fryer basket to achieve a crispy texture on all sides.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and garnishes to suit your taste preferences.
These Air Fryer Christmas Tree Potatoes are not only visually appealing but also deliciously crispy and flavorful. They make for a delightful holiday treat that’s sure to impress your guests and add a festive touch to your holiday table. Enjoy!