If there’s one side dish that can straddle the line between cozy comfort food and bold California flavors, it’s roasted potatoes. Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and elevated with a zesty punch of horseradish, this recipe delivers all the crave-worthy textures and flavors you want—while also celebrating ingredients grown right here in the Golden State.

Potatoes are a staple crop in California. But did you know horseradish has deep roots here too (pun absolutely intended)? Pair them together, and you’ve got a side dish that’s equal parts local pride and dinner-table star power.

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Why Roasted Potatoes Are a California Classic

Potatoes might conjure images of Idaho, but California is a powerhouse producer of spuds too. From the fertile soils of Kern and San Joaquin counties to the cool climate near Tulelake, potatoes thrive in diverse regions of the state. California farmers harvest millions of hundredweight annually, ensuring a steady supply of russets, reds, yellows, and specialty varieties for your table.

And when it comes to preparation? Roasting is the go-to method for amplifying natural potato flavor. High heat caramelizes the starches, creating crisp golden edges and creamy centers. Add a punchy horseradish mixture, and suddenly your standard roasted potatoes get a California-style upgrade.

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Meet California Horseradish: A Root with a Kick

So, what exactly is horseradish? This gnarly looking root vegetable belongs to the same family as broccoli, kale, and mustard. Beneath its rugged exterior is a sharp, sinus-clearing heat that transforms everything it touches.

California is one of the few states where horseradish is grown commercially. The plant thrives in rich, well-drained soil and is typically harvested in late fall and winter. Once pulled from the ground, the root can be grated fresh or processed into prepared horseradish—the jarred form most of us know and love.

Its signature heat comes from a compound called allyl isothiocyanate, which is only released when the root is cut or grated. That means horseradish keeps quiet until you wake it up—like some of us before morning coffee.

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The Recipe: California on a Sheet Pan

Before we get to the recipe, here’s a basic breakdown:

• Base: Creamy California yellow potatoes.
• Flavor builder: A mix of prepared horseradish, smashed garlic, and good olive oil.
• Finishing touch: A toss with fresh parsley, chopped ripe olives, and a squeeze of bright California lemon.

The result is roasted potatoes with layers of texture—crispy edges, creamy centers, and a bold, herby punch that makes every bite pop. This isn’t your grandmother’s meat-and-potatoes side dish. It’s fresh, zesty, and distinctly California.

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California Potato Growers and Processors

Behind every bag of potatoes or jar of horseradish is a hardworking community of California farmers and processors. Potato growers across the state emphasize sustainability—rotating crops, conserving water, and investing in soil health. California processors ensure those potatoes reach markets in top condition, whether they’re destined for fresh produce aisles or turned into packaged products like chips and frozen fries.

When you buy potatoes and horseradish grown in California, you’re not just getting superior freshness and flavor. You’re supporting family farms and agricultural communities that are vital to the state’s economy and food culture.

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A Flavor Match Made in the Golden State

What makes horseradish and roasted potatoes such a great pairing? It’s all about balance. Potatoes bring creamy comfort, while horseradish adds a sharp, tangy lift that cuts through richness. Together, they create a dish that feels indulgent without being heavy—perfect alongside grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even as the star of a vegetarian plate.

👉 Want another way to dress up potatoes? Don’t miss our guide to What is Horseradish? where we dive deeper into this bold root’s history as well as culinary uses and recipes from creamy spreads to cocktails.

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One Last Bite…..

The beauty of this horseradish-roasted potatoes recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of CA GROWN ingredients—potatoes, horseradish, parsley, olives, olive oil, and lemon—you can turn a basic side into something memorable.

It’s proof that when you cook with California produce, you don’t need to overcomplicate things. The flavors speak for themselves.

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Ready to try this recipe? Make it, snap a pic, and tag us with #CAGROWN so we can see your take on California’s boldest roasted potatoes. And don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more inspiration straight from the Golden State.