Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

Few dishes are as comforting—or as easy to love—as Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic. This delightful side dish boasts golden, crispy potato cubes paired with creamy, melty feta and sweet, caramelized garlic. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. With its simple ingredients and rich flavors, this recipe transforms humble potatoes into a standout dish that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish comes together quickly.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of roasted garlic, feta, and herbs creates a deliciously savory profile that elevates any meal.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for pairing with chicken, beef, or lamb, it complements various main courses beautifully.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual dinner with friends, this recipe is sure to impress.
• Healthier Option: Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic, having the right tools handy makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: Ensures even cooking and crisping of the potatoes while allowing space for the feta and garlic.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing the potatoes with olive oil and seasonings before roasting.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• 1-2 large baking potatoes (washed and cubed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Feta and Garlic

• 7 oz (200 g) block of feta cheese
• 1 head of garlic (top sliced off)
• 1 lemon (quartered)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ¼ cup (20 g) fresh basil, chopped

How to Make Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your potatoes roast evenly and become crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

In a mixing bowl:
1. Add your cubed baking potatoes.
2. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over them.
3. Sprinkle in thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss everything together until the potatoes are well coated.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Tray

Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly on a baking tray. Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the tray alongside the head of garlic.

Step 4: Add Lemon & Honey

Arrange quartered lemon pieces around the potatoes. Drizzle honey over both the feta cheese and garlic.

Step 5: Roast in Oven

Place the baking tray in your preheated oven. Roast for about 50 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown and tender. Stir occasionally for even cooking.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Once done, remove from oven and sprinkle fresh basil over everything before serving. Enjoy this flavorful Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic alongside your favorite main dish!

How to Serve Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic make for a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with various main courses. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that complements the creamy feta and crispy potatoes. Marinate chicken breasts in lemon juice and herbs before grilling for extra zest.

Accompany with Lamb Chops

• Lamb chops, seasoned with rosemary and garlic, create a hearty pairing. The rich flavors of lamb balance beautifully with the roasted potatoes.

Serve Alongside Turkey Breast

• Roast turkey breast brings a savory element that harmonizes well with the sweetness of the honey drizzled on the potatoes. A simple roast will do!

Add a Fresh Salad

• Mixed green salad provides a refreshing contrast. Opt for a vinaigrette made from olive oil and vinegar to tie in with the Mediterranean theme.

Include Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed green beans or asparagus add color and crunch. Their vibrant taste enhances the overall dish without overshadowing it.

Complement with Hummus

• Hummus offers a creamy dip that pairs nicely. Serve it on the side for added flavor and texture, making each bite even more enjoyable.

How to Perfect Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

Achieving the perfect Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic is all about technique and timing. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose the right potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon golds for that fluffy interior and crispy exterior.
• Cut evenly: Ensure potato cubes are uniform in size so they cook evenly, resulting in perfectly roasted bites.
• Preheat your oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to achieve crispy potatoes; this is essential for great texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread potatoes out on the baking sheet to allow them to roast rather than steam, ensuring maximum crispiness.
• Use fresh herbs: Incorporate fresh thyme or oregano along with dried herbs for an aromatic kick; this enhances flavor significantly.
• Drizzle honey at the end: Add honey towards the end of cooking to prevent it from burning, allowing it to caramelize without losing its sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

When serving Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic, consider these delicious side dishes that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Zucchini – Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds a smoky touch while keeping things light and fresh.
2. Roasted Broccoli – Tossed in olive oil and garlic, roasted broccoli provides a delightful crunch alongside your potatoes.
3. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing adds brightness.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with rice or lentils bring an exciting twist to your plate.
5. Couscous Pilaf – Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and nuts offers a nutty flavor that nicely balances the creaminess of feta.
6. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts – Sweet caramelized Brussels sprouts add depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with roasted dishes.
7. Grilled Eggplant – Smoky grilled eggplant rounds out your meal while providing a hearty vegetarian option.
8. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad – This salad adds protein and freshness, making it an excellent match for your flavorful roasted potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the best results with your Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven is hot before adding the dish for perfect crispiness.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using subpar feta or old garlic can compromise flavor. Invest in good-quality feta and fresh garlic for a delicious outcome.

• Overcrowding the Baking Tray: Placing too many potatoes on a single tray may result in steaming rather than roasting. Spread them out to allow proper airflow and browning.

• Skipping Herbs and Seasoning: Neglecting herbs can make your dish bland. Be generous with thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper for added depth of flavor.

• Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary depending on potato size. Keep an eye on them, adjusting roast time if necessary to ensure they’re golden brown and tender.

• Not Drizzling Honey at the Right Time: Adding honey too early may cause it to burn. Drizzle it over just before serving for a sweet finish without bitterness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Roasted potatoes are best consumed within 3-5 days.

Freezing Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or bag; they can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic?

Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic is a savory side dish featuring crispy potatoes combined with creamy feta cheese and aromatic garlic.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta for different flavors while still keeping that creamy texture.

How do I make Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic vegetarian?

The recipe is already vegetarian as it does not include meat products. Just ensure all ingredients are plant-based!

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more variety or adjust herbs based on your preference.

How spicy can I make this dish?

You can add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to give an extra kick without overpowering the main flavors of feta and garlic.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Try this recipe at your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!