Baked Feta Potatoes

These Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic roasted potato dish, offering rich flavors and creamy feta cheese that melt into a savory sauce. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or as a comforting side dish, these potatoes will impress everyone at your table. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself making this dish time and time again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The blend of roasted potatoes and baked feta creates a deliciously creamy and tangy flavor.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for any occasion, these baked feta potatoes pair well with grilled meats or fresh salads.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal steps and straightforward instructions, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish provides a balanced addition to your meal.
• Vegetarian-Friendly Option: A great choice for those looking to enjoy a hearty side without meat.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and browning of the potatoes while allowing space for feta and garlic.
• Saucepan: Ideal for par-boiling the potatoes to achieve that perfect crispy texture later in the oven.
• Knife: Used for chopping potatoes and squeezing lemon juice effectively.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for all your cutting needs.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering baked feta potatoes:

For the Potatoes:

• 2 large baking potatoes

For the Feta Mixture:

• 1 200g block of feta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 0.5 tsp red chilli flakes

For the Flavor Boost:

• 1 head of garlic (top cut off)
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 1 tbsp honey

For Garnish:

• 1/4 cup | 20g fresh basil

How to Make Baked Feta Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200C | 390F. This ensures that your potatoes roast evenly.

Step 2: Par-Boil the Potatoes

Wash and cube your potatoes. Add them to a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil:
1. Par-boil the potatoes for 6-8 minutes (no more than 10).
2. Drain them and let them steam dry for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare for Roasting

Add the par-boiled potatoes to your baking dish along with:
* Dried thyme
* Dried oregano
* Salt
* Black pepper
* Olive oil

Stir them well to coat evenly.

Step 4: Roast the Potatoes

Roast in the oven for about 30 – 40 minutes until golden brown and crispy but not fully cooked through.

Step 5: Add Feta and Lemon

Place the feta cheese in the middle of the baking tray (you can dip one side in seasonings):
Squeeze over half of one lemon.

Step 6: Roast Garlic & Remove Skins

Remove the garlic from the dish. Once cooled:
1. Squeeze out garlic from its skins.
2. Mash it slightly with the flat of your knife; set aside.

Step 7: Final Roast with Feta

Put your dish back in the oven for another 15 minutes until everything is beautifully roasted.

Step 8: Combine Flavors

Stir together:
1. The mashed garlic mixture
2. Juice from the remaining half lemon
3. Fresh basil

Gently mix this into your roasted potatoes along with baked feta.

Step 9: Drizzle with Honey

Finish by drizzling honey over everything and adding shredded basil on top.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve warm as a delightful side dish that everyone will love!

How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are a delicious and versatile dish that can complement many meals. Here are some creative ways to serve this flavorful side.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken breasts seasoned with herbs pair beautifully with the creamy feta and crispy potatoes, creating a balanced meal.

Accompany a Fresh Salad

• A light, tangy salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette enhances the flavors of baked feta potatoes.

Serve with Roasted Veggies

• Roasted seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add color and nutrition, making for a vibrant plate.

Enjoy as Part of a Mediterranean Platter

• Include baked feta potatoes on a platter with hummus, olives, and pita bread for a delightful Mediterranean feast.

Add to Tacos or Wraps

• Use baked feta potatoes as a stuffing in soft tacos or wraps with grilled veggies for an exciting twist on traditional fillings.

How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes

Achieving the perfect baked feta potatoes is all about technique. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use high-quality feta: Opt for a block of feta cheese rather than crumbled. It melts better and provides a creamier texture.

• Par-boil the potatoes: This step helps ensure they become crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy inside when roasted.

• Don’t overcrowd the baking dish: Give your potatoes enough space in the pan for even roasting and maximum crispiness.

• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to tweak the herbs and spices according to your taste preferences for an extra flavor boost.

• Add fresh herbs at the end: Stirring in fresh basil after baking preserves its flavor and vibrant color.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their rich flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

2. Juicy chicken marinated in lemon juice and herbs brings a zesty balance to the meal.

3. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

4. A refreshing combination of quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and parsley dressed in olive oil adds texture and nutrients.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

6. Crispy Brussels sprouts tossed in balsamic vinegar provide an earthy contrast to the creamy feta.

7. Cucumber Yogurt Dip

8. A cool tzatziki sauce made from yogurt and cucumber serves as a refreshing dip alongside the warm potatoes.

9. Stuffed Bell Peppers

10. Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or lentils make for a hearty side that pairs well with the main dish.

11. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Mushrooms

12. Savory mushrooms filled with spinach and feta offer another delightful way to enjoy those Mediterranean flavors together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Feta Potatoes, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the par-boil: Par-boiling the potatoes ensures they cook evenly and get crispy. Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference!
• Overcrowding the baking dish: Crowded potatoes won’t roast properly. Make sure they have enough space to crisp up on all sides.
• Not seasoning properly: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Make sure every component, including the feta, is well-seasoned for a delicious outcome.
• Using low-quality feta: The taste of your dish can suffer if you use subpar feta cheese. Opt for a good quality block for creamy and rich flavors.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking times may vary based on your oven and potato size. Keep an eye on them to avoid undercooking or burning.
• Forgetting about freshness: Fresh herbs enhance flavor significantly. Be sure to use fresh basil rather than dried for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Baked Feta Potatoes can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes

• Allow them to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they will be good for up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 180C | 350F and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1 minute until warm, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat with a little olive oil until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Baked Feta Potatoes:

What type of potatoes work best for Baked Feta Potatoes?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or new potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape and have a creamy texture when baked.

Can I make Baked Feta Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead of time by par-boiling the potatoes and mixing ingredients, then store them until you’re ready to bake.

How do I customize my Baked Feta Potatoes?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes before baking for extra flavor and nutrition.

Are there any variations of Baked Feta Potatoes?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or parsley, or add olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Feta Potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a fantastic side dish that pairs well with various mains. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or vegetables to suit your taste. Try this recipe today for a flavorful experience!