Greek Lemon Potatoes

These Greek Lemon Potatoes are crispy on the edges, creamy inside, and bursting with garlicky, lemony goodness. Roasted in a flavorful garlic, lemon, and herb broth, they soak up every drop of citrus and herb-infused deliciousness, making them an irresistible side dish. Easy to make with minimal prep, they perfectly complement roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a fresh Greek salad. This recipe is vegan and vegetarian-friendly.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds Yukon gold potatoes

  • 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegan/vegetarian)

  • ⅓ cup olive oil

  • ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice

  • 4 cloves garlic, grated

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

  2. Wash, peel, and cut potatoes into wedges. Place in a large mixing bowl.

  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

  4. Pour the mixture over the potatoes and toss to coat evenly.

  5. Transfer potatoes and liquid to a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.

  6. Bake for 1 hour or until potatoes are tender, tossing at least twice during baking to coat and absorb the liquid.

  7. Increase oven temperature to 500°F and bake until potatoes turn golden and crispy.

  8. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 252 kcal

  • Protein: Not specified (generally low in this recipe)

  • Carbohydrates: Predominantly from potatoes (exact grams not specified)

  • Fat: From olive oil (healthy fats)

  • Fiber: Present in potatoes (exact amount not specified)

  • Sodium: From salt and broth (amount depends on broth used)

  • Vitamins & Minerals: Good source of vitamin C and potassium from potatoes and lemon juice

Note: The exact breakdown (protein, carbs, fat, fiber, sodium) is not fully detailed in the source, but calories and main components are given. You can use a nutrition calculator with the ingredient amounts for precise macros if needed.

Flavor Profile and Aromatics

The defining feature of Greek Lemon Potatoes is their irresistible garlicky, lemony taste, which imparts a refreshing brightness to the dish. Fresh lemon juice provides a zesty acidity that cuts through the richness of the olive oil, while garlic adds a warm, pungent undertone. The inclusion of dried oregano and fresh parsley ties the flavors together with classic Mediterranean herbaceous notes that are earthy yet vibrant.

Salt and black pepper round out the seasoning, balancing the citrus and enhancing the natural sweetness of the Yukon gold potatoes. These aromatic elements combine to create a savory, tangy, and fragrant dish that pleases the palate and complements a wide array of flavors on the table.

Texture Contrast: Crispy and Creamy

One of the most satisfying aspects of these Greek Lemon Potatoes is their contrast in texture. The roasting process at a moderate temperature initially allows the potatoes to absorb the lemon and herb broth, making the interior creamy and flavorful. The subsequent increase in oven heat crisps the edges, giving a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft centers.

This interplay of textures makes every bite interesting—starting with a satisfying crispness followed by a melt-in-your-mouth softness inside. The result is a side dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome, perfect for elevating even the simplest meals.

Cooking Method and Tips

The method of soaking and roasting the potatoes in a broth-based mixture is key to achieving their signature flavor and texture. Using Yukon gold potatoes is recommended because of their naturally creamy texture and ability to hold their shape while roasting.

Tossing the potatoes in the flavorful lemon and herb broth before baking ensures every wedge is evenly coated and absorbs the seasoning deeply. Regular tossing during the hour-long roast helps the potatoes soak up the liquid and cook evenly.

The final high-temperature roast is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy exterior without drying out the potatoes. Fresh parsley sprinkled on top just before serving adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens the dish visually and taste-wise.

Nutritional Insights

Greek Lemon Potatoes offer a nutritious side that primarily provides complex carbohydrates from the potatoes, which serve as a good energy source. The olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and add richness to the dish.

While the protein content is low, these potatoes provide dietary fiber that aids digestion and promotes satiety. The use of lemon juice boosts the vitamin C content, supporting immune health and enhancing iron absorption from other foods in the meal.

Sodium levels vary depending on the type and amount of broth used, so using a low-sodium vegetable broth can make this dish lighter without sacrificing flavor. Overall, this recipe offers a balanced option to complement protein-rich mains without adding unnecessary heaviness.

Versatility and Pairing Suggestions

Greek Lemon Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be paired with numerous dishes across various cuisines. They work beautifully with Mediterranean mains such as grilled lamb, chicken souvlaki, or seafood, absorbing and balancing bold flavors with their bright, tangy notes.

For a vegetarian or vegan meal, these potatoes pair well with grilled vegetables, hearty bean dishes, or a fresh Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. Their compatibility with fresh herbs and citrus also makes them an excellent side for light, summery dishes.

The recipe’s simple ingredients and adaptability allow you to customize the herbs or add extras like rosemary or thyme for different flavor profiles, making it suitable for many occasions from casual dinners to holiday feasts.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What sets Greek Lemon Potatoes apart is their balance of ease, flavor, and texture. Unlike many side dishes that require complex preparation or multiple steps, this recipe is straightforward yet delivers a sophisticated taste experience.

The combination of roasting in a lemony broth followed by a high-heat crisping is a technique that transforms humble potatoes into a gourmet side. Its vegan and vegetarian-friendly nature also broadens its appeal, accommodating a wide range of dietary needs without compromising on taste or satisfaction.

Conclusion

Greek Lemon Potatoes are a shining example of how simple ingredients and traditional cooking techniques can create a flavorful, comforting, and visually appealing side dish. Their crispy edges and creamy interiors bathed in a garlicky, lemon-infused broth make them a standout accompaniment for countless meals.

Perfect for those who appreciate vibrant Mediterranean flavors, this recipe is accessible to cooks of all skill levels and fits seamlessly into both everyday dinners and special occasions. Whether served alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or fresh salads, Greek Lemon Potatoes are sure to add a burst of sunshine and flavor to your table.

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