If you’re craving a side dish that bursts with sunshine and vibrant Mediterranean flavors, this Greek Roast Potatoes with Lemon and Feta Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine golden, crispy Yukon gold potatoes roasted to perfection with zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and a sprinkle of herbaceous oregano, then finished with creamy, tangy feta cheese that melts just enough to create a perfect balance of textures. It’s comfort food elevated, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to brighten any meal with its fresh, bold character.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients, this recipe proves that deliciousness doesn’t have to be complicated. Each element plays an important role, from the creamy texture of the potatoes to the bright acidity of the lemon and the salty richness of the feta.
- 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, quartered: These hold their shape well and roast beautifully with a buttery flavor.
- 5 Tablespoons olive oil, divided: Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect crispy edge on each potato.
- 2 lemons, 1 whole cut into slices, one zested and juiced: Provides the signature zesty brightness that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of aromatic depth that complements the lemon and herbs.
- 1 Tablespoon dried oregano: Classic Greek seasoning that infuses the potatoes with authentic flavor.
- ½ cup chopped fresh herbs (Greek basil, oregano, parsley & thyme): Gives freshness and color, bringing a garden-fresh finish.
- ¼ cup feta, crumbled: The crowning touch that adds a creamy, salty contrast to the crisp potatoes.
- Sea salt and freshly ground pepper: Used generously to enhance all the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Greek Roast Potatoes with Lemon and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400ºF to ensure it’s hot enough to roast those potatoes until golden and crispy. While the oven warms, quarter your Yukon gold potatoes so they cook evenly and develop lots of surface area for that coveted crunch.
Step 2: Toss Potatoes in Lemon-Olive Oil Mixture
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice from one lemon, and dried oregano. This vibrant sauce will coat each potato piece, marrying zest, herb, and oil into every bite. Add the potatoes and toss thoroughly so the flavors soak in. Remember to season generously with sea salt and freshly ground pepper, which will enhance those natural flavors.
Step 3: Add Lemon Slices
Take the second lemon, cut it into halves or slices, but don’t squeeze the juice yet. Nestle the lemon pieces among the potatoes in the roasting pan. As they roast, these lemon slices will caramelize slightly, imparting a subtle, mellow citrus aroma that gently flavors the potatoes without overpowering.
Step 4: Roast to Golden Perfection
Place the potatoes and lemon slices in the oven along with the minced garlic. Roast for 30-40 minutes, turning or shaking the pan occasionally to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when the potatoes are tender on the inside and boast a beautifully crisp, golden exterior that beckons for that first bite.
Step 5: Prepare Herbed Feta Drizzle
While the potatoes are roasting, chop your fresh herbs and mix them with the remaining olive oil. Fold in the crumbled feta and let it marinate gently. This creamy, herbaceous combination is what sets this Greek Roast Potatoes with Lemon and Feta Recipe apart, adding layers of flavor that balance the brightness of the lemon and the savory crunch of the potatoes.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once your potatoes are done roasting, transfer them to a serving dish and drizzle generously with the fresh herb and feta mixture. If you like, sprinkle extra chopped herbs on top for a splash of color and a fresh hit of flavor. This final touch transforms the dish into a stunning visual and taste sensation.
How to Serve Greek Roast Potatoes with Lemon and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as parsley, oregano, or even a few sprigs of thyme add a wonderful pop of green and a refreshing note on top. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate the textures and highlight the potato’s crispiness just before serving.
Side Dishes
These roast potatoes make a perfect companion to grilled meats like lamb or chicken, a vibrant Greek salad, or alongside roasted vegetables. Their bright lemony flavor cuts through rich protein dishes and complements fresh Mediterranean-inspired sides beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these potatoes in a rustic wooden bowl for a casual family meal or on a beautiful white platter to let the colors pop for entertaining guests. You can also drizzle a little extra olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon right at the table for added indulgence and freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Greek roast potatoes with lemon and feta store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making your leftovers even tastier.
Freezing
For best texture, freezing is not ideal for roasted potatoes with feta since the cheese’s creaminess and potato crispness can be compromised. However, if needed, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a sealed container; use within 1 month.
Reheating
To bring back the crispy edge, reheat your potatoes in a hot oven at 375ºF for 10-15 minutes rather than using a microwave. This method revives their golden crunch and fresh aroma without sacrificing texture or flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes! While Yukon golds are ideal for their creamy texture and crisp edges, red potatoes or even fingerlings can work well too. Just adjust cooking time slightly depending on size and type.
Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?
Fresh herbs really brighten this dish, but if you don’t have them, dried herbs can be substituted though the flavor will be less vibrant. I recommend fresh for that authentic Mediterranean touch.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative that suits your taste. The lemon and herbs will still create a beautifully flavorful dish.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the pan?
Make sure to use plenty of olive oil and toss the potatoes well. Using a non-stick roasting pan or lining your tray with parchment paper can also help keep them from sticking.
Can these potatoes be served cold?
They are best enjoyed warm for that perfect crispy texture, but they can be served at room temperature as part of a mezze platter or picnic spread, where the lemon and feta still shine.
Final Thoughts
Greek Roast Potatoes with Lemon and Feta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug from the Mediterranean. It’s easy to make, packed with fresh flavors, and perfect for elevating any meal. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a favorite you reach for again and again when you want something simple, yet spectacular.
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Greek Roast Potatoes with Lemon and Feta Recipe
- Total Time: 40-50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These crispy Greek roast potatoes are infused with the bright flavors of lemon and garlic, roasted to a golden perfection, then topped with creamy, salty feta and fresh herbs. A classic side dish that perfectly complements Mediterranean meals with its zesty and herbaceous profile.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Marinade
- 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, quartered
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for tossing)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, cut into slices (for roasting)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Herb-Feta Topping
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup chopped fresh herbs (Greek basil, oregano, parsley, and thyme)
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400ºF. Quarter the Yukon gold potatoes evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Mix Marinade: In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons olive oil, lemon zest, juice from one lemon, and dried oregano. Toss this mixture thoroughly with the quartered potatoes to coat them evenly. Season generously with sea salt and freshly ground pepper.
- Add Lemon Slices: Cut the second lemon into slices and add them to the potatoes without squeezing the juice. These slices will roast alongside the potatoes, infusing them with lemon aroma and flavor.
- Roast Potatoes with Garlic: Spread the potatoes and lemon slices on a baking sheet. Add minced garlic on top and roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender inside and crisp and golden outside, releasing fragrant lemon and herb aromas.
- Prepare Herb and Feta Mixture: While potatoes roast, chop fresh basil, oregano, parsley, and thyme. Mix with 2 tablespoons olive oil in a small bowl. Add crumbled feta cheese to the herb olive oil and allow to marinate, enriching the flavors until the potatoes are ready.
- Finish and Serve: Once the potatoes are roasted, transfer them to a serving plate or bowl. Drizzle with the herbed olive oil and feta mixture. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use other potato varieties such as red potatoes, but Yukon golds offer the best balance of creamy interior and crispy exterior.
- The lemon slices add a subtle roasted citrus aroma and can be squeezed over the potatoes for extra zing if desired.
- Fresh herbs are key to authentic flavor; if unavailable, dried herbs can be substituted but use less quantity.
- For a vegan option, omit the feta or use a plant-based feta substitute.
- The olive oil quality impacts the dish’s flavor—opt for extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Greek