Greek Roasted Potatoes Feta

This irresistible Greek Roasted Potatoes with Whipped Feta recipe has become my go-to small plate whenever I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The crispy potatoes with their lemony, garlicky coating pair perfectly with the creamy, tangy whipped feta for a Mediterranean-inspired dish that always disappears quickly.

I first created this dish for a casual weekend gathering, and it quickly became the unexpected star of the evening. Now my friends specifically request "those Greek potatoes" whenever they visit, and I'm always happy to oblige.

Ingredients

• Large baking potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for the fluffiest interior and crispiest exterior
• Fresh lemons: The secret weapon that adds brightness and cuts through the richness
• Garlic cloves: Roasting them whole transforms their flavor into something sweet and complex
• Dried oregano and thyme: These classic Greek herbs provide authentic Mediterranean flavor
• Olive oil: Use a good quality oil since its flavor will shine through
• Honey: Creates beautiful caramelization and balances the acidity of the lemon
• Chili flakes: Adds a gentle heat that complements the other flavors perfectly
• Greek yogurt: Provides tanginess and creaminess to the whipped feta
• Feta cheese: The star of the dip, use authentic Greek feta for the best results
• Fresh parsley: Adds color and a fresh herbaceous note to finish the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Parboil the Potatoes:

Start by cutting your potatoes into even chunks and boiling them for exactly 10 minutes. This crucial step ensures they cook evenly and develop that perfect fluffy interior. While they boil, preheat your oven to 220°C and place a baking tray with olive oil inside to heat up.

Create the Perfect Texture:

Drain the parboiled potatoes thoroughly and then shake them vigorously in the colander. This roughens up the edges which will become deliciously crispy during roasting. The small potato bits that break off will also caramelize beautifully.

Season and Begin Roasting:

Carefully transfer the potatoes to the hot oiled tray which will create an immediate sizzle. Sprinkle with oregano, thyme, salt and pepper, then toss to coat evenly. Nestle unpeeled garlic cloves and quartered lemon among the potatoes for incredible flavor infusion.

Develop Complex Flavors:

After 20 minutes of roasting, remove the garlic and lemon pieces but continue roasting the potatoes for another 25 minutes until perfectly golden and crisp. The staggered timing prevents the garlic and lemon from burning while allowing the potatoes to reach peak crispness.

Create the Flavor Bomb:

Squeeze the roasted garlic from its skins and finely dice the roasted lemon including the rind. Combine these with olive oil, honey and chili flakes to create an intensely flavored mixture that will coat the potatoes.

Make the Whipped Feta:

While the potatoes finish roasting, combine feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt and pepper in a blender. Process until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.

Plate like a Professional:

Spread the whipped feta across half of your serving plate in a dramatic swoosh. Arrange the crispy potatoes on the other half, then drizzle any remaining honey mixture over everything. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and freshness.

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The first time I served this dish at a family gathering, my Greek grandmother actually asked for the recipe. Coming from someone who rarely accepts non traditional preparations of classic dishes, this was the ultimate compliment. The honey might seem like an unusual addition, but trust me it creates magic with the lemon and garlic.

Make-Ahead Options

The whipped feta can be prepared up to three days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the texture. The potatoes are best made fresh, but if needed, you can parboil them earlier in the day and complete the roasting just before serving. This makes the recipe much more manageable for entertaining.

Perfect Pairings

These Greek potatoes with whipped feta pair beautifully with grilled lamb chops, roasted chicken, or even a simple Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal. For a vegetarian feast, serve alongside stuffed bell peppers or grilled eggplant. A chilled crisp white wine like Assyrtiko from Santorini makes the perfect beverage pairing, highlighting the lemony notes in the dish.

Cultural Context

This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Greek lemon potatoes known as "patates lemonates," a classic side dish found throughout Greece. The addition of whipped feta transforms it into a more contemporary presentation while honoring the traditional flavor profile. In Greece, meals are often served family style with many small plates meant for sharing, making this dish authentically suited for gatherings and celebrations.

Storage and Reheating

While best enjoyed fresh, both components can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat the potatoes, place them in a 180°C oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. The whipped feta is delicious cold or at room temperature. Interestingly, many Greeks enjoy these potatoes at room temperature as part of a mezze platter, so don't feel they must always be piping hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I get the crispiest roasted potatoes?

Parboil the potatoes for 10 minutes to soften them slightly before roasting. Shaking the drained potatoes helps fluff up the edges, resulting in a crispier texture when baked in hot oil.

→ Can I make the whipped feta ahead of time?

Yes, whipped feta can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a smoother consistency.

→ What can I use instead of feta cheese?

You can substitute feta with goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor, or use cream cheese for a milder and creamier alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the roasted potatoes and whipped feta separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the potatoes in the oven or air fryer to regain their crispiness.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

For a vegan version, replace feta with a plant-based cheese alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey. Ensure that the yogurt used for the sauce is also plant-based.

→ What pairs well with this dish?

These roasted potatoes with whipped feta pair perfectly with grilled meats, fresh salads, or as a standalone small plate for entertaining.