Oven Fried Potatoes

Oven Fried Potatoes
Serves 8 people

These are a tasty alternative to fries that is less oily and a whole lot tastier. The basic ones, with just salt and pepper are great, but with some creativity, they go beyond great and right into sublime. Just try the variation included if you don't believe me!

4 large potatoes, preferably Russet or Yukon Gold (baking potatoes are too powdery)
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper

1. Preheat the oven to 375F.
2. Cut the potatoes into eigths lengthwise to make long wedges.
3. Toss in a bowl with the remaining ingredients to coat well with oil, then lay out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Bake about 1 hr, turning over midway, or until potatoes are crusty and golden on the outside.

Variation (Pepper Parmesan Potatoes):
Replace salt and pepper with 1 tsp crushed dried hot pepper flakes, and prepare as described above, seasoning the potatoes with a little salt once they're on the baking sheet. Once the potatoes are out of the oven, sprinkle with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and a little dried basil (optional).