These Greek roast potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re an experience! With minimal steps and just one pan, you can create a dish that tastes like it came straight from a taverna in Santorini. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible and will have everyone asking for seconds.
This recipe is so easy, it practically cooks itself. The richness of the olive oil, the tang of the lemon, and the salty bite of the feta all come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these potatoes are sure to be a hit. Try it tonight—you won’t believe how simple and delicious it is!
Ingredients:
- (2 lbs) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces: Yukon Golds are my favorite because they get wonderfully creamy and crispy.
- (1/4 cup) Olive oil: Use good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- (1/4 cup) Fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is a must for that bright, zesty flavor!
- (2 cloves) Garlic, minced: Garlic adds a lovely aromatic depth.
- (1 tbsp) Dried oregano: Oregano is a classic Greek herb that complements the other flavors perfectly.
- (1 tsp) Dried rosemary: Rosemary adds a hint of earthy, piney flavor.
- (1/2 tsp) Salt: Salt enhances all the other flavors.
- (1/4 tsp) Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice.
- (4 oz) Feta cheese, crumbled: Feta adds a salty, creamy finish.
- (Optional) Fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish and a pop of freshness.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the potatoes in the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before roasting. This allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the potatoes, resulting in a more intense and delicious taste.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Give the potatoes enough space to roast evenly and get crispy. Overcrowding steams the potatoes instead of roasting them, preventing them from achieving that desirable golden-brown crispiness.
- Salt potatoes generously while hot, this is a must for best flavor. Salting while they’re hot helps the salt adhere and penetrate, enhancing the overall taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and optimal crispiness. A properly preheated oven guarantees that the potatoes will cook evenly from all sides, resulting in a perfectly crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.
- Prepare the potatoes. Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Uniform size ensures even cooking. Cutting the potatoes into uniform sizes ensures that they all cook at the same rate, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others are overcooked.
- Make the marinade. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, rosemary, salt, and pepper. This flavorful mixture will coat the potatoes and infuse them with deliciousness. The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the potatoes during roasting.
- Coat the potatoes. Add the potatoes to the bowl and toss well to ensure they are evenly coated with the marinade. Make sure every piece gets a good coating for maximum flavor. This step is crucial for ensuring that each potato piece is infused with the delicious flavors of the marinade.
- Arrange on a baking sheet. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the potatoes roast evenly and get crispy. Using a large baking sheet allows you to spread the potatoes in a single layer, which is essential for achieving optimal crispiness.
- Roast the potatoes. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and tender, flipping halfway through. Flipping ensures even browning on all sides. Flipping the potatoes halfway through the roasting process ensures that they brown evenly on all sides, resulting in a visually appealing and delicious dish.
- Add the feta. Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. The heat will slightly melt the feta, creating a creamy, salty topping. The warmth of the potatoes will gently melt the feta cheese, creating a luscious and flavorful topping that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Broil briefly (optional). If desired, broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the feta is lightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning! Broiling the feta cheese briefly adds a delightful touch of golden-brown color and a slightly crispy texture, enhancing the overall presentation and taste of the dish.
- Garnish and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately. The fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Fresh parsley not only adds a visually appealing touch but also provides a burst of fresh flavor that complements the richness of the potatoes and feta cheese.
Serving Ideas:
These Greek roast potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Their bright, zesty flavor profile makes them a fantastic accompaniment to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as part of a Mediterranean-inspired mezze platter.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Grilled Chicken or Lamb: The lemon and herb flavors in the potatoes complement grilled chicken or lamb perfectly. Marinate your choice of protein with similar Greek-inspired flavors like lemon, garlic, and oregano for a cohesive meal. Serve the potatoes alongside the grilled meat, drizzling any pan juices over both for added flavor. The combination of tender, flavorful meat and crispy, zesty potatoes is simply irresistible.
- Roasted Vegetables: Create a vibrant and healthy meal by serving these potatoes with roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, herbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice before roasting to tie the flavors together. The combination of tender vegetables and crispy potatoes makes for a satisfying and colorful dish. Roasting the vegetables alongside the potatoes allows their flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious and delicious meal.
- Greek Salad: For a lighter meal, serve the potatoes with a classic Greek salad. The crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta in the salad will complement the warm, flavorful potatoes. A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano will bring all the elements together beautifully. The refreshing flavors of the Greek salad provide a perfect counterpoint to the richness of the potatoes, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Plating Tips:
- Presentation Matters: Arrange the potatoes on a platter or serving dish, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Sprinkle additional crumbled feta and fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor. A well-presented dish is more appealing and inviting, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Contrast and Texture: When pairing with grilled meats or roasted vegetables, consider the textures and colors on the plate. Use contrasting colors to make the dish visually appealing, and vary the textures for a more interesting eating experience. A variety of textures and colors adds visual interest and makes the meal more enjoyable to eat.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: Garnishes should not only add visual appeal but also enhance the flavor of the dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon juice can elevate the presentation and taste of your Greek roast potatoes. A well-chosen garnish can add a burst of fresh flavor and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Serve Warm: These potatoes are best served warm, so plan your cooking accordingly. If you’re preparing other dishes, try to time them so everything is ready to serve at the same time. Serving the potatoes warm ensures that they retain their crispy texture and flavorful aroma.
FAQs:
- Can I use different types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold potatoes are my favorite due to their creamy texture and ability to crisp up nicely, you can certainly use other types of potatoes. Russet potatoes will give you a very crispy exterior but may be a bit drier inside. Red potatoes hold their shape well and have a slightly waxy texture, which can be delicious. Experiment to find your preferred potato for this recipe!
- How can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
You can prepare the potatoes up to the point of roasting them. Peel and chop the potatoes, toss them with the marinade, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply spread them on a baking sheet and roast as directed. Keep in mind that the potatoes might release some liquid while they sit, so you may want to drain them slightly before roasting.
- Can I add other vegetables to the roasting pan?
Yes, you can! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the roasting pan can create a delicious and complete meal. Toss the vegetables with the same marinade as the potatoes and roast them together. Keep in mind that different vegetables may cook at different rates, so you may need to add them to the pan at different times to ensure they are all cooked perfectly.
- How do I store leftover Greek roast potatoes?
Store any leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can spread them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Keep in mind that the potatoes may not be as crispy after reheating.
- Can I make these potatoes vegan?
Yes, you can easily make these potatoes vegan by omitting the feta cheese. The potatoes are still incredibly flavorful without the feta, thanks to the lemon, garlic, and herbs. You can also add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or top them with a dollop of vegan tzatziki sauce for added richness.
- What if I don’t have fresh lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is always best for flavor, you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch. Keep in mind that bottled lemon juice may not have the same bright, zesty flavor as fresh, so you may want to add a little extra to compensate.
Conclusion:
These Greek roast potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. The combination of crispy potatoes, zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and creamy feta is simply irresistible. With their ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, go ahead and give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Pro Tips:
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat.
- If you want even crispier potatoes, parboil them for 5-7 minutes before roasting.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or marjoram, to customize the flavor to your liking.
Variations:
- Spicy Greek Roast Potatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat. This will add a delightful kick to the potatoes and complement the other flavors beautifully.
- Garlic Herb Greek Roast Potatoes: Increase the amount of garlic and add other herbs such as thyme or marjoram to the marinade. This will create a more herbaceous and aromatic flavor profile.
Greek Roast Potatoes: A Taste of Santorini
These Greek potatoes are roasted to crispy perfection and bursting with lemon, feta, and herbs. A simple yet unforgettable side dish!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine potatoes, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with feta cheese and parsley.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crispy potatoes, soak them in cold water for 30 minutes before roasting. You can also add other herbs like dill or rosemary.