If you’re looking for a dish that combines crispy, golden potatoes with the tangy creaminess of feta and the fresh zing of lemon and basil, you’ve found a winner. The Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon, Garlic, and Basil Recipe is a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures that feels both comforting and bright. Every bite brings a perfect balance of savory herbs, a little kick from chili flakes, and a subtle sweetness from honey, making this dish a standout all on its own or alongside your favorite mains.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon, Garlic, and Basil Recipe lies in its simple, yet vibrant ingredients. Each component plays an essential role, from the hearty potatoes providing a crispy base to the fresh basil adding just the right hint of herbal brightness.
- 2 large baking potatoes: These give a starchy, fluffy bite after par-boiling and roasting to golden perfection.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps everything crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Brings a subtle earthy, slightly minty note that complements the potatoes well.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Lends a warm herbaceous flavor that pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean elements like feta.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, making each ingredient shine.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Offers a gentle bite and deep spice to balance the tangy and sweet components.
- 0.5 tsp red chili flakes: Adds a touch of heat without overpowering the dish.
- 200g block of feta cheese: Melts slightly to creamy perfection, lending a delightful tang and saltiness.
- 1 head of garlic (top cut off): Roasts soft and mellow, infusing a sweet, caramelized depth.
- 1 lemon, quartered: Provides fresh acidity and brightness essential for lifting the entire dish.
- 1 tbsp honey: A subtle sweetness that balances the lemon’s tartness and ties all the flavors together.
- 20g fresh basil: Adds fresh color, aroma, and a burst of herbal brightness at the end.
How to Make Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon, Garlic, and Basil Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). This high heat will help you achieve those irresistibly crispy edges on your potatoes. Meanwhile, wash and cube the potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Par-boil them for 6 to 8 minutes until just tender but not falling apart—this step ensures a soft inside with a crispy outside after roasting.
Step 2: Toss Potatoes with Herbs and Oil
Drain the potatoes and toss them thoroughly in olive oil along with dried thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes. This simple blend of herbs and spices creates a beautiful flavor base that makes every piece taste like a little savory treasure once baked.
Step 3: Roast the Potatoes
Spread the coated potatoes evenly in a baking dish. Roast them in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes until that beautiful golden crust forms. Make sure to give them a stir halfway through to encourage even browning and crispiness.
Step 4: Add Feta and Lemon
Once the potatoes are perfectly roasted, nestle your block of feta cheese in the center. Squeeze half a lemon over the feta to add bright citrusy notes and pop the dish back in the oven for an additional 15 minutes. This lets the feta soften without totally melting, creating a creamy, tangy centerpiece.
Step 5: Final Flavor Boost with Garlic, Honey, and Basil
While the feta roasts, mix the roasted garlic cloves with the remaining lemon juice. Toss this fragrant, mellow garlic all through the warm potatoes. Just before serving, drizzle with honey for a gentle sweetness, then sprinkle fresh basil over the top to finish with a vibrant herbal lift.
How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon, Garlic, and Basil Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is a must-have garnish for this dish, bringing a peppery freshness with every bite. For an added crunch and nutty depth, toasted pine nuts make a lovely topping. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving enhances the dish’s richness.
Side Dishes
This Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon, Garlic, and Basil Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, where the potatoes’ bright and creamy notes complement simple, smoky proteins. For a vegetarian pairing, a fresh garden salad or sautéed green beans bring a crisp contrast to the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the potatoes as individual portions in small cast-iron dishes to impress guests with rustic charm. Alternatively, pile them high on a large sharing platter, topped generously with basil and a wedge of lemon for a vibrant centerpiece at any meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon, Garlic, and Basil Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld nicely overnight, making the dish even more satisfying the next day.
Freezing
While you can freeze the roasted potatoes, keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes may soften once thawed. To freeze, cool completely and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze before adding the fresh basil and honey.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a hot oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to help restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the potatoes soggy and the feta less appealing.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the tangy feta and lemon. Just adjust the par-boil time slightly since sweet potatoes tend to cook faster.
Is it necessary to par-boil the potatoes?
Par-boiling ensures the potatoes are cooked through and soft inside before roasting, so you get that perfect crispy outside and fluffy inside. Skipping this step may result in hard centers.
Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried?
Yes, fresh thyme and oregano can replace dried if you prefer—they’ll give a brighter, more delicate flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
What type of feta cheese works best?
A good quality block feta, preferably in brine, works best because it holds its shape during baking while still softening nicely. Avoid pre-crumbled feta as it may dry out.
How spicy is this dish with red chili flakes?
The chili flakes add a gentle warmth, not overpowering heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less or omit them altogether.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon, Garlic, and Basil Recipe enough—it is one of those dishes that feels effortlessly impressive yet totally comforting. Give it a try and enjoy how simple ingredients come together to create an unforgettable flavor experience that’s perfect any day of the week.
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Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon, Garlic, and Basil Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Feta Potatoes recipe combines golden roasted potatoes with creamy, tangy feta cheese, fresh herbs, and a hint of sweetness from honey, creating a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for a family meal or special occasion.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Seasonings
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp red chili flakes
Cheese and Garlic
- 200g block of feta cheese
- 1 head of garlic (top cut off)
Additional Flavorings
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 1 tbsp honey
- 20g fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 200C (390F) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for roasting the potatoes to a golden crisp.
- Prepare the potatoes: Wash and cut the baking potatoes into cubes. Par-boil them in boiling water for 6-8 minutes to soften slightly, then drain thoroughly to remove excess water.
- Toss the potatoes with seasonings: In a baking dish, combine the par-boiled potato cubes with olive oil, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes. Mix well to coat evenly.
- Roast the potatoes: Place the dish in the preheated oven and roast for 30-40 minutes until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Add feta and lemon: Remove the dish briefly from the oven and place the block of feta cheese in the center. Squeeze half a lemon over the feta and return the dish to roast for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the feta to soften and warm.
- Combine garlic, lemon juice, and garnish: While the feta roasts, squeeze the remaining lemon juice into a bowl and mix it with the roasted garlic from the head (which should be soft from roasting). Toss this mixture with the potatoes. Finish the dish by drizzling honey on top and garnishing with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Par-boiling helps to cook the potatoes faster and ensures a softer interior after roasting.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your preferred heat level.
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor synergy with feta and honey.
- Fresh basil adds a bright herbal finish but can be substituted with parsley or oregano if desired.
- Serve immediately for best texture and taste.
