Authentic Greek Potatoes

This lemony Greek potato recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy side dish with minimal effort. The potatoes soak up the flavorful broth while roasting, creating crispy exteriors and tender, flavor-packed centers that will transport you straight to a seaside Greek taverna.

I first made these potatoes for a Mediterranean-themed dinner party, and they immediately became the most requested side dish among my friends and family. Even my picky nephew asks for seconds every time these appear on our table.

Ingredients

• Potatoes: Any variety works beautifully, though Yukon Golds offer the perfect balance of starch and waxiness for this preparation
• Chicken broth: Creates a flavorful bath for the potatoes to cook in, infusing them from the inside out
• Olive oil: Extra virgin preferred for its robust flavor that complements the Mediterranean profile
• Lemon juice: Fresh is absolutely essential here, as it provides bright acidity that bottled juice cannot match
• Garlic: Fresh minced cloves create aromatic depth that develops beautifully during the long roasting time
• Oregano: Dried works wonderfully, though fresh can be substituted at a 3:1 ratio for even more herbaceous flavor
• Sea salt: Enhances all the other flavors while helping create that perfect crispy exterior
• Black pepper: Freshly ground adds subtle heat and complexity
• Paprika: Optional but adds beautiful color and a hint of sweetness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the potatoes:

Cut peeled potatoes into thick wedges by halving lengthwise, then quartering each half. The key is uniform sizing so they cook evenly and develop those perfect crispy edges while maintaining creamy centers.

Create the flavor bath:

In a 13×9 baking dish, whisk together chicken broth, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt and pepper until well combined. This liquid gold will eventually be absorbed by the potatoes, flavoring them from the inside out.

Combine and arrange:

Add potato wedges to the dish and toss thoroughly to coat each piece in the flavorful liquid. Don't worry about creating a perfect single layer some pieces sticking up will develop extra crispiness, while those submerged will become wonderfully tender.

Bake to perfection:

Roast uncovered at 350°F for approximately 90 minutes without stirring. The magic happens as the liquid slowly reduces, first steaming the potatoes, then allowing them to crisp as the moisture evaporates. You'll know they're done when golden brown with crispy edges.

Rest before serving:

Allow the potatoes to rest for 10 minutes after removing from the oven. This resting period allows the flavors to settle and the textures to perfectly set before serving.

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The quality of your olive oil makes a significant difference in this recipe. I discovered this when my Greek neighbor brought me a bottle of olive oil from her family's grove in Kalamata. The richness and fruity notes of a good olive oil elevate these simple potatoes from good to extraordinary.

Make-Ahead Instructions

These Greek potatoes actually improve with time, making them perfect for meal planning or entertaining. Prepare as directed, then cool completely before refrigerating. When ready to serve, arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. The flavors will have deepened overnight, creating an even more delicious result.

Perfect Pairings

While traditionally served alongside Greek dishes like souvlaki or moussaka, these potatoes complement virtually any protein. Try them with simple roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even salmon. For a complete Mediterranean meal, serve with a Greek salad, tzatziki, and warm pita bread. The bright lemony flavor cuts through rich dishes beautifully, while the starchy comfort makes them a crowd-pleaser.

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Troubleshooting Tips

If your potatoes aren't crisping properly, your oven temperature may be running low. Increase by 25 degrees for the final 15 minutes of cooking. Conversely, if they're browning too quickly but still firm inside, cover loosely with foil and continue baking until tender. For maximum crispiness, ensure your baking dish isn't overcrowded allow some space between pieces for air circulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of potatoes work best for this dish?

You can use Yukon Gold, Russets, red potatoes, or new potatoes. All work beautifully, but Yukon Gold provides a creamy texture.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. The flavor remains delicious and satisfying.

→ How should I store leftover Greek potatoes?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ What herbs are best for seasoning Greek potatoes?

Oregano is the traditional choice, but fresh parsley or Greek oregano can also be used for garnish and added flavor.

→ How do I achieve crispy edges on the potatoes?

Ensure the potatoes are coated evenly in the seasoning mixture, and position some wedges slightly above the broth for crispy caramelized edges.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and seasoning mixture ahead, then bake them closer to serving time to ensure they are warm and crispy.

→ Is fresh lemon juice necessary for this recipe?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor. Bottled juice may lack the brightness and freshness that enhances the dish.