Roasted Greek Lemon Potatoes Recipe

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Cook Time: 60 minutes

Roasted Lemon Oregano Potatoes

This delicious recipe for roasted potatoes is simple yet full of flavor, with a perfect balance of tangy lemon, aromatic oregano, and savory chicken broth. Perfect as a side dish or to complement your main meal.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into thick wedges
• cup olive oil
• 2 medium lemons, juiced
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 cups chicken broth

Directions

1. Gather all the ingredients to ensure you have everything on hand.
2. Preheat your oven to 400F (200C).
3. Place the potato wedges into a large mixing bowl.
4. Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil and lemon juice, then toss to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated.
5. Season the potatoes with salt, oregano, and black pepper, and toss again to distribute the seasonings evenly.
6. Spread the seasoned potato wedges in a single layer inside a 2-inch-deep roasting pan.
7. Pour the chicken broth over the potatoes, making sure the liquid covers the bottom of the pan.
8. Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for about 1 hour, or until they are tender, crispy on the outside, and golden brown.
9. Once done, remove from the oven and serve hot.
10. Enjoy your flavorful roasted lemon oregano potatoes!

Cooks Note

If you prefer, you can also roast the potatoes in a foil pan on the grill for 30 to 40 minutes. These potatoes pair wonderfully with souvlaki and make a great addition to a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 282
• Total Fat: 12g (16% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 2g (9% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 789mg (34% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 40g (15% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 5g (18% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 5g (9% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 45mg (50% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 33mg (3% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (11% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 962mg (20% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

History and Origin

Roasted Greek Lemon Potatoes, known as "Patates Lemonates" in Greece, have been a staple in Greek cuisine for centuries. Their origin lies in the ancient Greek culinary tradition, where simple, fresh ingredients such as potatoes, olive oil, and lemons were used to create bold flavors. This dish reflects the Mediterranean diet, known for its focus on fresh vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats. While potatoes themselves are not native to Greece (having been introduced to Europe from the Americas in the 16th century), they quickly became a beloved addition to Greek kitchens. The combination of crispy potatoes with a tangy lemon and savory broth creates a dish that is both comforting and refreshing, with deep roots in Greek home-cooking.

Regional Variations

The dish is enjoyed across Greece, though it varies slightly depending on the region. In some areas, additional herbs like thyme or rosemary are used, while others might include garlic for extra flavor. The Greek islands, with their abundant citrus fruits, often feature a zestier version, enhancing the lemon flavor. In northern Greece, where the climate is cooler, the use of chicken broth might be more prevalent to add richness and warmth to the dish. Regardless of region, the essential componentspotatoes, lemon, olive oil, and herbsremain consistent, showcasing the versatility of this classic side dish.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While there are many roasted potato recipes around the world, Greek Lemon Potatoes stand out due to their unique blend of lemon juice and chicken broth, which gives the dish a tangy, savory depth not typically found in other potato dishes. Unlike traditional roasted potatoes, which often focus on herbs and seasoning alone, Greek Lemon Potatoes are bathed in a flavorful liquid that softens the potatoes, creating a tender inside and a crisp exterior. This balance of textures and flavors is a hallmark of Greek cooking, which emphasizes the combination of fresh ingredients to bring out the natural taste of the food.

Where to Serve

Roasted Greek Lemon Potatoes are a versatile side dish commonly served with a variety of Greek mains such as lamb, souvlaki, or moussaka. The dish pairs particularly well with grilled meats, making it a perfect accompaniment for a summer BBQ or a Mediterranean-inspired feast. In Greece, it's often served as part of a larger family-style meal, where several different dishes are placed on the table for everyone to share. The lemony flavor of the potatoes complements rich meat dishes, while the crispy texture provides a satisfying contrast to the soft, tender meats.

Fun Facts

• Greek Lemon Potatoes are often a favorite in Greek holiday meals, such as Easter or Christmas, where they are served alongside roasted lamb or beef.
• In Greece, it is believed that the combination of lemon and olive oil has health benefits, contributing to heart health and digestion.
• While this dish is traditionally made with chicken broth, some variations use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, making it suitable for all dietary preferences.
• The use of lemon in Greek cooking is not just for flavor; it also helps to tenderize the potatoes, making them melt-in-your-mouth soft on the inside.

Whether you're preparing it for a casual family dinner or a festive occasion, Greek Lemon Potatoes are sure to impress with their bright flavors and comforting textures. The dish is a reflection of Greece's rich culinary history, offering a taste of the Mediterranean in every bite.

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