Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

Few dishes are as comforting—or as easy to love—as Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic. This dish combines golden, crispy potato cubes with creamy, melty feta and sweet roasted garlic, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it a go-to choice for any occasion. The unique blend of flavors and textures will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a flavorful side dish that complements any meal.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of roasted garlic, feta cheese, and herbs creates an irresistible taste that elevates the humble potato.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian option.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the roasted ingredients make this dish visually appealing on any table.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings; it’s hard to resist this comforting combination!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your preparation and ensure your Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and browning of potatoes while allowing for extra space for roasting garlic and feta.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing potatoes with oil and seasonings to ensure an even coating before roasting.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• 1-2 large baking potatoes (washed and cubed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Feta and Garlic

• 7 oz (200 g) block of feta cheese
• 1 head of garlic (top sliced off)
• 1 lemon (quartered)

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon honey
• ¼ cup (20 g) fresh basil, chopped

How to Make Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving crispy potatoes while gently roasting the garlic.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

In a mixing bowl, combine the washed and cubed potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss until all pieces are well-coated.

Step 3: Arrange Ingredients on Baking Sheet

Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly on a baking sheet. Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking sheet. Surround it with the head of garlic and lemon quarters.

Step 4: Drizzle Olive Oil

Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over everything on the baking sheet to enhance flavor during roasting.

Step 5: Roast in Oven

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Roast for about 50 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and crispy. The feta should become soft, while the garlic will caramelize beautifully.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Once cooked, remove from oven. Drizzle honey over roasted ingredients and sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic!

How to Serve Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these potatoes are sure to impress.

With Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes pairs beautifully. The freshness of the salad complements the rich flavors of the roasted potatoes.

Alongside Grilled Chicken

• Serve your roasted potatoes next to grilled chicken seasoned with herbs. The flavors meld perfectly, creating a satisfying meal.

As Part of a Mediterranean Platter

• Create a Mediterranean feast by serving these potatoes alongside hummus, baba ganoush, and pita bread. It’s great for sharing!

With Sautéed Vegetables

• Pair the potatoes with sautéed seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots for a wholesome side dish.

How to Perfect Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

Achieving the perfect Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic requires some attention to detail. Here are a few tips to enhance your dish:

• Cut Potatoes Evenly – Ensure all potato cubes are roughly the same size for even cooking. This helps them roast uniformly.

• Preheat Your Oven – Always preheat your oven before roasting. A hot oven ensures crispiness on the outside while keeping them tender inside.

• Use Fresh Herbs – Opt for fresh herbs when possible. They add vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Give your potatoes space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than roasting.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic can shine alongside various side dishes. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned and grilled asparagus provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy feta.

2. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds health benefits and flavor.

3. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or grains make an attractive side that complements the potatoes beautifully.

4. Roasted Broccoli – Crispy roasted broccoli adds nutrition and pairs well with the baked feta’s creaminess.

5. Couscous Pilaf – Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs and nuts offers delightful texture alongside your roasted dish.

6. Creamy Spinach Dip – A warm spinach dip served in bread bowls makes for an indulgent treat that balances well with savory potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Skipping the soak: Not soaking the potatoes before roasting can lead to less crispy results. Soak them in water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

• Overcrowding the pan: If you crowd the baking sheet, the potatoes will steam instead of roast. Give them space to ensure a nice golden color all around.

• Using cold feta: Placing cold feta on hot potatoes can prevent it from melting properly. Let the feta sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before using.

• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoned potatoes can taste bland. Make sure to season with salt and pepper generously for maximum flavor.

• Not preheating the oven: A cold oven won’t give you that perfect roast. Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooled roasted potatoes in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

• Place cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

• Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until crisp.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, but this may result in softer potatoes.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries about Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic:

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment! Other cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella can provide unique flavors and textures.

How do I make my potatoes extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, make sure they are well-dried before roasting and consider using a higher oven temperature.

What can I serve with Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic?

These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

You can substitute feta cheese with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding veggies or different herbs based on your preference. It’s a fantastic side that complements various main dishes, making it perfect for any occasion!