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If you crave a dish bursting with flavor, you’re in for a treat! Greek Lemon Potatoes are the perfect blend of zesty lemon, garlic, and roasted goodness. In this post, I’ll share my secrets for making these crispy, tender potatoes that will wow at any meal. From essential ingredients to tasty variations, you’ll find everything you need to create this delightful side dish. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bright Flavors: The combination of lemon and garlic creates a refreshing and zesty flavor profile that elevates the humble potato into a standout dish.
- Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
- Versatile Side Dish: These lemon potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian entrees, making them a go-to side for any meal.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant color and garnishing with fresh parsley not only make this dish delicious but also visually appealing for your dining table.
Ingredients
Required Ingredients
For Greek Lemon Potatoes, you will need:
– 2 pounds baby Yukon gold potatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 2 medium lemons)
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional garnishing ingredients:
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can’t find Yukon gold potatoes, you can use:
– Red potatoes
– Fingerling potatoes
– Baby potatoes
For oils and spices, consider these alternatives:
– Use avocado oil instead of olive oil.
– Try fresh herbs instead of dried oregano.
– Swap lemon juice with lime juice for a twist.
These swaps keep the dish tasty while allowing you to use what you have.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheating the oven: Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This hot temperature helps the potatoes roast perfectly.
2. Mixing the marinade: In a large bowl, add the following:
– 1/4 cup Extra Virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 2 medium lemons)
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Whisk these ingredients together until they blend well. This mix will give your potatoes a bright, zesty flavor.
Roasting Process
1. Coating the potatoes: Take 2 pounds of halved baby Yukon gold potatoes and add them to the bowl with your marinade. Toss them gently to coat each piece evenly.
2. Spacing in the baking dish: Pour the coated potatoes into a large baking dish. Spread them out in a single layer. This step is key for even cooking. If they are too close, they will steam instead of roast.
3. Tossing for even cooking: Drizzle any leftover marinade over the potatoes. Toss them halfway through the roasting time. This helps them get a nice golden brown color on all sides.
Finishing Touches
1. Cooling and garnishing tips: After roasting the potatoes for 40-50 minutes, they should be tender when pierced with a fork. Let them cool for about 5 minutes. This allows flavors to settle and enhances the taste.
2. Best practices for serving: Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the potatoes. This adds a burst of color and freshness. Serve them in a rustic bowl or on a platter. You can also add lemon wedges for an attractive touch.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Flavor
Fresh ingredients matter a lot in this dish. Use good-quality baby Yukon gold potatoes for the best taste. The lemon juice must be fresh too. It brings a bright zing that pairs well with garlic. For balancing flavors, I suggest tasting the marinade. Adjust salt and pepper to fit your preference. A little extra lemon zest adds a nice touch without overpowering.
Texture Enhancement
To get crispy edges, spread the potatoes in a single layer. This space allows hot air to circulate. Toss them halfway through roasting for even browning. For tender interiors, make sure to cut the potatoes in half. This helps them cook through without drying out.
Cooking Times & Temperatures
Cooking time depends on potato size. Baby Yukon gold potatoes take about 40-50 minutes. If using larger potatoes, cut them into smaller pieces to cook evenly. Your oven type matters too. Conventional ovens may require longer times than convection ovens. Always check for doneness with a fork to ensure they are tender.
Pro Tips
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil: The flavor of your olive oil will greatly impact the dish. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Adjust Lemon Zest to Taste: If you love a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to add more lemon zest to enhance the citrusy notes.
- Even Cooking: Be sure to spread the potatoes out in a single layer in the baking dish to ensure they roast evenly and get that golden color.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the potatoes to sit for a few minutes after roasting. This helps them absorb the flavors of the marinade even more.

Variations
Herb Infusions
You can add more flavor by using other herbs. Fresh thyme or rosemary pairs well with lemon. Fresh herbs give a vibrant taste, while dried herbs are convenient. Both options work great. Try mixing them for a unique twist.
Flavor Additions
Want to spice things up? Add paprika or cumin for a warm kick. You can also toss in other veggies, like bell peppers or onions, for a mixed roast. This adds color and nutrition to your dish. Just make sure to cut them to similar sizes for even cooking.
Dietary Adjustments
If you want to make this dish vegan, simply skip the butter and use olive oil. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so no worries there! For low-carb options, use cauliflower instead of potatoes. It absorbs the flavors well and offers a lighter touch.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Greek lemon potatoes fresh, allow them to cool. Place them in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the potatoes. They will stay good in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your potatoes, use the oven or a skillet. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This will help keep them crispy. If using a skillet, add a splash of oil and heat on low. Stir gently to avoid sogginess. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of your Greek lemon potatoes again!
FAQs
Common Questions
What are the origins of Greek lemon potatoes?
Greek lemon potatoes come from Greece. They are a popular side dish. The bright flavors come from fresh lemons and herbs. This dish often appears in Greek homes and restaurants. It pairs well with many Greek meals, like grilled meat.
Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these potatoes ahead of time. You can mix the marinade and coat the potatoes. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you are ready, roast them in the oven. This makes meal prep easy and quick.
Cooking Queries
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
You know the potatoes are done when they are golden brown. Use a fork to check if they are tender. If a fork goes in easily, they are ready. The cooking time is usually 40 to 50 minutes. Toss them halfway for even cooking.
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other potatoes. Yukon golds work great, but russets or reds will do too. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. The flavor may change slightly, but they will still taste good.
Serving Suggestions
What dishes pair well with Greek lemon potatoes?
These potatoes go well with grilled chicken, lamb, or fish. They also match nicely with Greek salad or tzatziki sauce. Their zesty flavor adds a punch to any meal.
How can I elevate the dish for special occasions?
To elevate the dish, add feta cheese on top. You can also sprinkle some olives for extra flavor. Serve the potatoes in a beautiful bowl or on a fancy platter. This makes them look great for any special meal.
Greek Lemon Potatoes are simple and tasty. We covered the main ingredients, key steps, and how to tweak the recipe to fit your needs. Using fresh herbs and spices makes a big difference in flavor. Remember, cooking times can change, so check your potatoes along the way. Enjoy serving these potatoes with your favorite dishes. Try different variations to keep things fun. Follow these tips, and you’ll impress anyone at your table. Get ready to enjoy a delicious dish that brings joy to any mea
Zesty Greek Lemon Potatoes
A vibrant and flavorful dish featuring roasted baby Yukon gold potatoes marinated in a zesty lemon-garlic mixture.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 50 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Greek
Servings 4
Calories 200 kcal
- 2 pounds baby Yukon gold potatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Extra Virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- to taste Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to create a hot environment for roasting.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well-blended to form a zesty marinade.
Add the halved baby potatoes to the bowl with the marinade. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure each potato is coated evenly with the lemon-garlic mixture.
Transfer the beautifully coated potatoes into a large baking dish. Spread them in a single layer, ensuring they have enough space for even cooking.
Drizzle any remaining marinade over the potatoes, allowing all the flavors to soak in during roasting.
Roast the potatoes in your preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. Make sure to toss them halfway through to achieve that perfect golden brown exterior and tender interior.
When the potatoes are perfectly roasted and tender when pierced with a fork, remove them from the oven. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly and absorb the flavors.
Just before serving, sprinkle the roasted potatoes generously with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve in a rustic bowl or platter with extra lemon wedges for presentation.
Keyword lemon, potatoes, roasted, side dish
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