Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Ingredients & Their Roles
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pro Tips for Crispy Potatoes
- Flavor & Texture Breakdown
- Variations & Serving Ideas
- Storage & Reheating Tips
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Conclusion
- FAQs
1. Introduction
Start with something both comforting and flavorful: Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic. Think crispy potato cubes roasted alongside a block of feta and a whole head of garlic, finished with lemon juice, fresh basil, and honey drizzle. A simple dish that delivers Mediterranean vibes with minimal effort.People.com+15NorthEast Nosh Recipes+15homemadevibes.com+15NorthEast Nosh RecipesAllrecipes+2homemadevibes.com+2NorthEast Nosh Recipes+2Facebook+3Simply Recipes+3homemadevibes.com+3
2. Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Crispy and creamy: golden potato edges paired with melting feta
- Aromatic garlic: roasted whole for mellow sweetness
- Sweet‑savory twist: lemon juice and honey balance the brine of feta
- Easy and impressive: perfect side dish or even a meatless main
- Minimal cleanup: everything cooks in one baking dishNorthEast Nosh RecipesNorthEast Nosh Recipes+1homemadevibes.com+1
3. Ingredients & Their Roles
| Ingredient | Purpose | Notes/Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Baking potatoes | Cubed and roasted for crispy edges | Yukon Gold or russet recommended |
| Block feta (200 g) | Creamy center | Press into seasoning for extra flavor |
| Olive oil | Helps potatoes crisp | Split into two drizzles |
| Dried thyme & oregano | Adds herby, Mediterranean flavor | Use rosemary or marjoram as substitutes |
| Whole garlic head | Roasted garlic becomes caramelized | Remove if you prefer less garlic flavor |
| Lemon wedges | Bright, zesty uplift | Squeeze after roasting or serve as garnish |
| Honey | Sweet lift to balance savory elements | Use maple syrup for vegan version |
| Fresh basil | Herbal freshness and garnish | Substitute with parsley or mint |
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4. Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 390°F (200 °C). Cube the potatoes and place them in a baking dish.
- Season potatoes: toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add feta and garlic: press one side of the feta into the potatoes. Add the garlic head and half the lemon wedges. Drizzle remaining oil.
- Roast for 45–55 minutes until the potatoes are golden and feta softens—remove garlic if needed after ~35 mins.
- Finish and toss: Once cool, squeeze garlic cloves out and mash into a paste. Add lemon juice, basil, garlic paste, and honey. Fold gently to combine.
- Serve warm, drizzled with any leftover juices and garnished with basil and lemon zest.Nigella.com+11NorthEast Nosh Recipes+11NorthEast Nosh Recipes+11
5. Pro Tips for Crispy Potatoes
- Soak potato cubes in cold water before roasting to remove starch and boost crispiness
- Spread in a single layer to avoid steaming and ensure even browning
- Monitor garlic—if browning too fast, remove before finishing bake
- Press feta into potato spices so it picks up extra flavor during roast
6. Flavor & Texture Breakdown
- Crisp-potatoes: salty with buttery interior
- Creamy feta block: slightly melty and tangy
- Roasted garlic: mellow, sweet, and aromatic
- Herbs and lemon: brighten and uplift with acidity
- Honey drizzle: balances saltiness and adds subtle sweetness
7. Variations & Serving Ideas
- Extra color: Add cherry tomatoes halfway through roasting
- Spicy touch: Sprinkle red chili flakes during bakingNorthEast Nosh Recipes+2Pinterest+2Facebook+2NorthEast Nosh Recipes+4NorthEast Nosh Recipes+4homemadevibes.com+4The GuardianNorthEast Nosh Recipes+1NorthEast Nosh Recipes+1
- Make it vegan: Use plant-based cheese and maple syrup instead of honey
- Serve with: Greek salad, sautéed greens, grilled vegetables, or grilled meats
8. Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer for crispy texture
- Avoid microwaving—it softens the potatoes and tofu-like feta
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the dish—potatoes steam instead of crisping
- Skipping potato soak step—causes sogginess
- Roasting garlic too long—it may burn and become bitter
- Forgetting to fold in basil and honey after baking—loses fresh flavor balance
10. Conclusion
Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic strikes a perfect balance of texture, flavor, and ease. This Mediterranean-style dish turns humble ingredients into something elegant enough for entertaining, yet simple enough for weeknight dinners. Serve it as a standout side dish or let it shine solo as a vegetarian main.
11. FAQs
Q: Can I substitute feta with another cheese?
Yes—soft goat cheese, Boursin, or whipped vegan cheese work great too.NorthEast Nosh Recipes+5By The Forkful+5NorthEast Nosh Recipes+5homemadevibes.com+2NorthEast Nosh Recipes+2NorthEast Nosh Recipes+2
Q: What if my potatoes are still hard after 55 minutes?
Remove feta and garlic, roast potatoes longer until tender then reassemble.NorthEast Nosh Recipes
Q: Can this be made ahead?
Yes—mix everything after roasting and reheat just before serving.