Greek Style Roasted Lemon Butter Potatoes offer a delectable blend of creamy, zesty, and herby flavors that elevate any meal. With their crispy edges and tender centers, these potatoes are an ideal side dish for family dinners, holiday feasts, or casual get-togethers. Here’s everything you need to know to make this delicious dish, including tips, variations, and a step-by-step guide.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds baby golden potatoes, sliced
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ to 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice
- ⅔ cup low sodium chicken broth
- ¾ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3 tablespoons garlic, freshly minced
- ¾ to 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting potatoes, allowing them to become crisp and golden brown on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Wash the baby golden potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Slice them into ½-inch rounds. If some potatoes are larger, cut them into halves or quarters to ensure uniform cooking. Uniform slicing is crucial for even roasting and consistent texture.
- Mix the Butter Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with fresh squeezed lemon juice. Start with ½ tablespoon of lemon juice and taste the mixture before adding more. Stir in the low sodium chicken broth, which will add moisture and flavor. Next, add the dried rosemary, dried oregano, and freshly minced garlic. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary to suit your preference.
- Coat the Potatoes: Add the sliced potatoes to the bowl with the butter mixture. Toss the potatoes thoroughly to ensure that they are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture. This step is essential for infusing the potatoes with the lemon and herb flavors.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Arrange them cut-side down if possible to promote even browning and a crispier texture. Make sure the potatoes are not overcrowded to ensure they roast properly and develop a golden, crispy exterior.
- Roast the Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for 35-40 minutes. Stir the potatoes halfway through the roasting time to ensure they cook evenly and achieve a uniform golden brown color. The potatoes are done when they are crispy on the outside and tender inside. You can test for doneness by piercing a potato with a fork; it should go in easily.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: About 5 minutes before the potatoes are done roasting, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top. This will allow the cheese to melt and become slightly crispy. For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan, as pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
- Finish and Serve: Once the potatoes are roasted to perfection and the cheese is melted and slightly crispy, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs, such as chopped basil or parsley, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Roasted Potatoes
- Uniform Slicing: Ensuring that the potatoes are sliced into even rounds will help them cook evenly and achieve a consistent texture.
- Seasoning: Taste the butter mixture before tossing it with the potatoes. Adjust the seasoning if needed to suit your preferences.
- Crispier Potatoes: For extra crispiness, consider broiling the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt better and provide a richer flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
Variations
- Herb Variations: You can experiment with different herbs such as thyme, dill, or tarragon to create variations of this dish. Fresh herbs can also be used in place of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture if you prefer a bit of heat.
- Additional Vegetables: For a more substantial side dish, consider adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the roasting pan. These vegetables can be roasted alongside the potatoes and will absorb some of the delicious flavors from the butter mixture.
Nutritional Information
Greek Style Roasted Lemon Butter Potatoes are a flavorful side dish that complements many main courses. While they are indulgent due to the butter and cheese, they can be part of a balanced meal when served in moderation. The potatoes provide a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium, while the Parmesan cheese adds protein and calcium.
Greek Style Roasted Lemon Butter Potatoes are a delectable side dish that combines the richness of butter with the freshness of lemon and herbs. The result is a dish with crispy edges, tender centers, and a savory, cheesy finish. Whether you’re serving them alongside a roast chicken, grilled steak, or a vegetarian main course, these potatoes are sure to be a hit at your next meal. Enjoy the crispy, buttery goodness of these roasted potatoes as a flavorful addition to your dinner table.
