Have you tried smashed potatoes before? Well, time to elevate the potato game with by adding a Greek twist!
These flavorful and tangy potatoes are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with fresh lemony flavour.
This easy-to-follow recipe combines the simplicity of roasted potatoes with the zesty taste of lemon, oregano, and fresh parsley and then finished with crumbled feta cheese. Oh so good! This healthy side dish pairs perfectly with any main course.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a quick and easy meal, these Greek Lemon Smashed Potatoes are sure to impress!
Does lemon and potatoes pair well together?
The Greeks often use lemon on their potatoes for its bright and tangy flavour that complements the starchy and savoury taste of potatoes. Lemon is also a common ingredient in Greek cuisine, and its acidity can help balance the richness of dishes like roasted potatoes or grilled meats.
Additionally, lemon juice can help tenderize the potatoes and make them more flavorful by allowing the seasoning to penetrate deeper into the flesh. Lemon also adds a refreshing and aromatic note to the dish, making it more appetizing and enjoyable.
Overall, the use of lemon on potatoes in Greek cuisine is a traditional and delicious way to elevate the flavor profile of a classic and beloved dish.
What are the staple spices in Greek cuisine?
I have a passion for discovering various culinary traditions from around the world, with a particular interest in the unique spices and flavours that define each cuisine.
Greek cuisine is known for its use of flavorful herbs and spices that enhance the taste of its dishes. Some of the staple spices and herbs in Greek cooking include:
Oregano – this aromatic herb is a staple in Greek cuisine and is used in a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables.
Mint – fresh or dried mint is often used in Greek dishes, especially in salads and meat dishes.
Dill – this delicate herb adds a subtle but distinct flavor to dishes like fish, soups, and dips.
Thyme – thyme is a common herb in Greek cuisine, used in many meat dishes, stews, and sauces.
Rosemary – while not as commonly used as other herbs, rosemary is sometimes used in Greek cooking, especially in meat dishes and bread.
Cinnamon – cinnamon is often used in sweet and savory dishes, adding a warm and sweet note to baked goods, meat dishes, and tomato-based sauces.
Cloves – this aromatic spice is used in a variety of Greek dishes, including stews, desserts, and savory pies.
Overall, these herbs and spices are fundamental in Greek cooking, adding depth and flavour to the dishes that are enjoyed worldwide.
How to boil the potatoes to "just done"
For this recipe, I like to use smaller potatoes as they are nice for one serving.
The cooking time for boiling small potatoes will depend on their size and the desired level of doneness. However, as a general rule of thumb, it usually takes 15-20 minutes to boil small potatoes until they are tender but not overcooked. Here’s how to boil small potatoes:
Start by washing and scrubbing the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Do not peel the potatoes.
Place the potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them by about 1 inch.
Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the flavour of the potatoes.
Bring the water to a boil over high heat and then reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer.
Check the potatoes for doneness after 15 minutes by inserting a fork into one of them. If the fork goes in easily and the potato is tender, they are done. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes and check again.
Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the heat and drain them in a colander.
Rinse the potatoes under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Your boiled small potatoes are now ready to be used in your recipe or served as a side dish.
ingredients:
- 2 pounds of potatoes (preferably Yukon Gold or another waxy variety)
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 of fresh lemon
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tbsp. fresh parsley chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Feta, fresh dill and green onion and sour cream for garnishing
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Boil the Potatoes until just done and a fork goes through the potato with a tiny bit of resistance. Drain and cool.
- To a measuring cup add: butter, water, garlic, oregano, parsley and fresh lemon juice. Microwave on high for 45 seconds to 1 minute or until the butter is melted.
- Add a spoonful of the butter mixture over each potato.
- Drizzle a tiny bit of oil over each potato and then add salt and pepper.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes or to your desired crispiness.
- Garnish with feta cheese, fresh chopped dill, green onion and then a dollop of sour cream.
- Enjoy!
start boiling the water!
In conclusion, these Greek Lemon Smashed Potatoes make for the perfect side dish to complement any meal.
The crispy exterior and tender interior of the potatoes, paired with the tangy and zesty flavour of fresh lemon, create a harmonious balance of flavours and textures that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
Plus, this recipe is simple to follow and requires only a few ingredients, making it a convenient and stress-free addition to any dinner party or weeknight meal. Whether you’re a fan of Greek cuisine or just looking to mix up your usual potato routine, these smashed potatoes are sure to impress and become a new favourite in your recipe collection.