Authentic Greek Potatoes: 5 Steps to Flavorful Joy

Delicious plate of authentic Greek potatoes with herbs and spices

Dish Snapshot

Introduction
Close your eyes and imagine this: wedges of golden-browned potatoes emerging from the oven, steam carrying a bright lemony tang and the warm, garlicky perfume of oregano. The exterior is crisp with a gentle crunch; the inside is pillowy and tender, releasing a comforting earthiness with every bite. These Authentic Greek Potatoes are the kind of dish that feels like a hug from the inside—simple, honest, and full of flavor.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want a no-fuss side that tastes like you spent hours, for holiday tables that need a rustic, crowd-pleasing dish, or for relaxed weekend gatherings where the oven does the heavy lifting and you enjoy good company. They work beautifully as a hearty side, a vegetarian main when paired with protein, or piled into bowls for a cozy meal any time of year.

Nutrition Highlights

Per serving estimate (recipe yields 4 servings). Nutrition totals were calculated using standard values from USDA FoodData Central and cross-checked for fat guidance with Mayo Clinic resources.

  • Calories: ~305 kcal
  • Protein: ~4.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~40 g
    • Dietary fiber: ~5 g
    • Sugars: minimal (from lemon/garlic)
  • Total fat: ~13.7 g
    • Saturated fat: ~2 g (trace from potato; olive oil is mostly unsaturated)
  • Sodium: ~600 mg (depends on salt added and broth used)
  • Key micronutrients: Vitamin C (from potatoes and lemon), potassium (potatoes), small amounts of iron and B vitamins

Notes:

  • These are estimates; exact values vary by potato variety and brand of broth/olive oil. For more precise tracking, weigh your ingredients and consult USDA FoodData Central or a registered dietitian.
  • Using less oil or low-sodium broth will reduce calories and sodium respectively. Sources referenced: USDA FoodData Central; Mayo Clinic guidance on dietary fats.

Perfect For…

  • Family dinners where you want something comforting and universally loved.
  • Potluck or holiday spreads—this dish feeds a crowd and pairs well with roasted meats and salads.
  • Weekends when you want a low-effort, high-flavor side that can be prepared ahead and reheated.
  • Vegetarians and those seeking gluten-free options (this recipe is naturally gluten-free and easily vegan).

How to Make Authentic Greek Potatoes: 5 Steps to Flavorful Joy

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds (about 900–920 g) potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced (about 2–3 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable broth

Optional ingredients and substitutions

  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano or chopped rosemary (for brighter herb flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smoke
  • 2 tablespoons white wine instead of part of the broth for extra depth
  • Use low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth to control salt
  • For a dairy finish: crumble feta and sprinkle before serving

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish or line with parchment.
  2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
  3. Add the potato wedges to the bowl and toss gently to coat evenly. Take care not to overmix or break the wedges—toss just until all pieces are coated.
  4. Arrange the potatoes in a single or slightly overlapping layer in the baking dish. Pour the vegetable broth around (not over) the potatoes so the wedges remain coated in oil but have broth to steam slightly.
  5. Bake for 45–50 minutes, turning occasionally (about every 15 minutes), until the potatoes are golden brown on the edges and tender when pierced with a fork.
  6. Remove from the oven and let rest 5 minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or oregano if desired.

Practical tips

  • Cut wedges to similar sizes for even cooking.
  • Turning occasionally ensures browning on all sides.
  • If you want extra crispiness, remove the broth halfway through baking and broil 2–3 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.
  • Use a fork to test doneness: tender through to the center means they’re ready.

Best Pairings

  • Traditional Greek pairings: roasted or grilled lamb, lemony baked fish, or a Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumber, and feta.
  • Vegetarian pairings: serve alongside grilled halloumi, chickpea stew, or a simple tzatziki and warm pita.
  • For a lighter meal: pair with a green salad and a squeeze more lemon.
  • For brunch or casual eats: top with a fried egg and a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
  • Drinks: a bright white wine (Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc), light beer, or iced tea with lemon.

Storage Instructions

  • Room temperature: Do not leave cooked potatoes at room temperature for more than 2 hours (food safety risk).
  • Refrigerator: Store cooled potatoes in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat in a hot oven (400°F / 200°C) for best texture, or crisp them in a skillet with a little oil.
  • Freezer: You can freeze cooked potatoes for up to 2 months. Flash-freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat gently from frozen in a 375°F (190°C) oven until heated through; expect some texture softening.
  • Notes: Avoid reheating multiple times. For best flavor and texture, reheat only the portion you’ll eat.

Chef’s Advice

  • Best potato varieties: Yukon Gold or new potatoes balance creaminess and structure. Russets will be fluffy but may break down faster; fingerlings add visual interest.
  • Oil temperature and coating: Toss gently but thoroughly—each wedge should have a thin oil coating for even browning.
  • Crispness trick: After the first 30 minutes, remove the broth and increase oven heat to 425°F (220°C) or broil briefly to crisp edges.
  • Lemon balance: Add lemon juice before roasting for brightness; add a bit of lemon zest at the end for an aromatic lift.
  • Herb timing: Use dried oregano in the marinade; finish with fresh herbs for freshness and color.

Recipe Variations

  • Mediterranean Feta & Olive (vegetarian): After baking, sprinkle with crumbled feta, chopped Kalamata olives, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.
  • Rosemary & Garlic Roast: Swap oregano for 1 tablespoon fresh chopped rosemary and add a pinch of flaky sea salt after roasting.
  • Spicy Harissa Twist: Stir 1–2 teaspoons of harissa paste into the oil mixture for smoky heat; garnish with parsley and a dollop of plain yogurt.
  • Herbed Lemon & Veggie Mix (one-pan roast): Add halved cherry tomatoes and sliced red onion to the baking dish for a colorful, all-in-one side.
  • Gluten-free / Vegan: The base recipe is already gluten-free and vegan—use vegetable broth and omit any cheese toppings.

All Your Questions Answered

Q: Can I use red potatoes or russets?
A: Yes. Yukon Golds are ideal for balance. Russets get fluffier and may break; red potatoes hold shape beautifully.

Q: How do I make these less oily?
A: Reduce olive oil to 3 tablespoons and use a light spray of oil for the final crisp. Increase roast time slightly to compensate.

Q: They’re mushy—what went wrong?
A: Likely overcrowding or over-soaking. Space wedges out so hot air can circulate and avoid turning too often in the first 20 minutes.

Q: Can I prepare ahead?
A: Par-roast for 20 minutes, cool, refrigerate, and finish roasting before serving. This is great for entertaining.

Q: What if I don’t have vegetable broth?
A: Use low-sodium chicken broth or a simple water-lemon combo (water with extra lemon and a pinch of salt) in a pinch.

Conclusion

These Authentic Greek Potatoes are an easy, soulful dish that brings bright lemon, warm garlic, and oregano together with the simple comfort of roasted potatoes. Try the basic recipe once, then make it yours—add herbs, spice it up, or turn it into a full meal with protein and salad. Share your photos and tips in the comments; I love hearing how readers adapt this classic.

For a creamier, indulgent potato side that’s perfect when you’re craving something richer, check out this take on Dauphinoise Potatoes: Scalloped Potatoes All Dressed Up. And if you’re planning a brunch-style meal alongside these potatoes, a light morning pairing like the 3-Ingredient Protein Smoothie – Joy Bauer makes a simple, nutritious complement.

Enjoy the recipe—may it warm your table and your heart.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Authentic Greek Potatoes


  • Author: recipechangegmail-com
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Description

Delicious roasted potato wedges infused with lemon, garlic, and oregano, perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (about 900920 g) potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced (about 23 tablespoons)
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup (240 ml) vegetable broth
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh oregano or chopped rosemary, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 2 tablespoons white wine, feta cheese (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish or line with parchment.
  2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
  3. Add the potato wedges to the bowl and toss gently to coat evenly.
  4. Arrange the potatoes in a baking dish and pour the vegetable broth around them.
  5. Bake for 45–50 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and tender. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra crispiness, remove broth halfway through baking and broil for 2–3 minutes. Best served warm.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 305
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 13.7g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11.7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 4.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Printable Recipe Card

Want just the essential recipe details without scrolling through the article? Get our printable recipe card with just the ingredients and instructions.

Scroll to Top