Authentic Greek Potatoes: Crispy Lemon Perfection!

A bright, simple Greek potato side with lemon, garlic, and oregano. Crispy on the outside, soft inside.

This is an easy, classic Greek potato dish. It uses lemon, olive oil, garlic, and oregano for strong fresh flavor. The potatoes roast long to get crispy edges and soft centers. If you like other roasted potato ideas, try a different twist like crispy bacon and honey roasted potatoes for another simple side.

Why This Recipe Works

• The long roast time makes the outside crispy and the inside tender.
• Lemon and olive oil soak into the potatoes for bright, bold flavor.
• A soak and thorough drying step removes excess starch so the potatoes brown better.
• Adding broth during roasting keeps the potatoes moist without losing crispiness.

Why you should try this recipe

• It’s simple and needs few ingredients.
• It pairs well with grilled meat, fish, or a green salad.
• You can make it ahead and reheat without losing much texture.

How to make Authentic Greek Potatoes: Crispy Lemon Perfection!

Follow the steps and keep the potatoes dry after soaking. Roast in a single layer so each piece browns. Use the broth pour to catch browned bits and add extra flavor. For a small sweet finish after the meal, consider a light lemon treat like lemon raspberry cookies.

Ingredients :

• 2.5-3 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes
• 1/2 cup (120ml) Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice
• 1/2 cup (120ml) Good Quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 4-6 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Dried Oregano
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1/2 cup (120ml) Vegetable or Chicken Broth
• Fresh Parsley or Oregano, for garnish (optional)

Equipments Needed

• Large bowl
• Large baking sheet or roasting pan
• Clean towels or paper towels
• Sturdy spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions :

1. Wash and scrub potatoes. Peel if desired. Cut into consistent 1-1.5 inch wedges or 1-inch chunks.
2. Soak cut potatoes in cold water for 30-60 minutes to draw out excess starch. Drain thoroughly and pat them extremely dry with clean towels; this is crucial for crispiness.
3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) with an oven rack in the middle position.
4. In a very large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add the thoroughly dried potato pieces and toss vigorously to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the marinade.
5. Spread the marinated potatoes in a single layer on a large, sturdy baking sheet or roasting pan, ensuring no overcrowding. Use two sheets if necessary to give each piece space.
6. Roast for an initial 20-25 minutes without disturbing them.
7. Carefully remove the pan from the oven. Using a sturdy spatula, flip the potato pieces. Pour the 1/2 cup of vegetable or chicken broth (or water) directly into the baking pan, around the potatoes. Return to the oven.
8. Continue roasting for another 25-35 minutes, flipping the potatoes every 10-15 minutes to encourage even browning and crispiness. Scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan and reincorporate them.
9. The total roasting time will be approximately 50-60 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender inside and gloriously golden-brown and crispy outside. For ultimate crispiness, you can increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 10-15 minutes, or use the broiler for 1-3 minutes (watch very closely to prevent burning).
10. Once done, remove the baking sheet(s) from the oven and let the Greek Potatoes rest in the pan for about 5-10 minutes, uncovered, to allow flavors to meld and temperature to equalize. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or oregano (optional) just before serving. Enjoy!

How to serve Authentic Greek Potatoes: Crispy Lemon Perfection!

Serve hot as a side to grilled or roasted meats, fish, or a simple salad. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano. Squeeze extra lemon if you like more brightness.

How to store Authentic Greek Potatoes: Crispy Lemon Perfection!

Cool to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a hot oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to regain some crispiness, or reheat in a skillet with a little oil.

Tips & Tricks

• Dry the potatoes very well after soaking. Wet potatoes steam and won’t get crispy.
• Cut potatoes into even pieces so they cook evenly.
• Use a wide baking sheet so pieces do not touch each other.
• Flip the potatoes gently to keep the crust intact.
• For a complete meal with a sweet finish, pair with a light dessert like rich chocolate strawberries.

Variations & Substitutions

• Use red potatoes or baby potatoes instead of russet or Yukon Gold.
• Swap fresh lemon juice for 2-3 teaspoons lemon zest plus 1/4 cup juice for extra zing.
• Use fresh oregano or rosemary instead of dried oregano.
• For vegan option, use vegetable broth.

FAQs

Q: Can I skip the soaking step?
A: You can, but soaking helps remove starch and makes the potatoes crisper. If short on time, rinse and dry very well.

Q: Can I use frozen potatoes?
A: No. Frozen potatoes release water and will not crisp well. Use fresh potatoes.

Q: Will the potatoes be too lemony?
A: The lemon cooks and softens. If you prefer milder lemon, use 1/3 cup lemon juice instead of 1/2 cup.

Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: Yes. Roast fully, cool, and store. Reheat in the oven to bring back crispiness.

Q: Can I air-fry these?
A: You can try in an air fryer in batches. Watch closely and shake often for even browning.

Conclusion

This recipe gives you simple, tasty Greek potatoes with bright lemon and garlic and a crispy finish. For a classic version and more tips, see this detailed recipe on Authentic Greek Lemon Potatoes at OliveTomato. For another clear, step-by-step take on Greek lemon potatoes, check the guide at Greek Lemon Potatoes on RecipeTin Eats.

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