Frequently Asked Questions
What are Herb-Infused Greek Lemon Potatoes?
They are a vibrant and zesty side dish featuring potatoes roasted with garlic, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and oregano for a balance of crispy edges and tender centers.
How many potatoes do I need for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 large potatoes.
How should I cut the potatoes?
Peel the potatoes and cut them into large wedges, aiming for approximately 6 to 7 wedges per potato.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 420 degrees Fahrenheit or 215 degrees Celsius.
How much garlic is used in this recipe?
You will need 4 minced garlic cloves.
What type of oil is best for these potatoes?
The recipe specifically uses 1/2 cup of olive oil for an authentic Greek flavor.
How much water is added to the pan?
Initially, you add 1 cup of water to the large baking pan with the other ingredients.
What herbs provide the infusion?
Dried oregano is the primary herb used to infuse the potatoes with flavor.
How much lemon juice is required?
You should use the juice of one large lemon.
What kind of salt and pepper should I use?
The recipe recommends sea salt and freshly ground coarse black pepper to taste.
How do I combine the ingredients in the pan?
With clean hands, toss the potatoes, garlic, oil, water, lemon juice, and spices together directly in the baking pan.
How long is the first baking stage?
Bake the potatoes for 40 minutes until a golden-brown crust begins to form.
Why should I stir the potatoes halfway through?
Stirring exposes the white underside of the potatoes for even browning and allows you to add extra seasoning.
What should I do if the liquid evaporates during baking?
If the pan appears dry after the first 40 minutes, add another 1/2 cup of water before returning them to the oven.
What is the total baking time?
The total baking time is approximately 80 minutes, or until the potatoes reach a perfect golden finish.
Is there a tip for making cleanup easier?
You can lightly spray the baking pan with non-stick cooking spray before adding ingredients, and soak the pan in hot soapy water after use.
Can I add extra flavor with a bouillon cube?
Yes, you can dissolve a bouillon cube in the water before baking for added depth of flavor.
Should I adjust the salt if using bouillon?
Yes, be sure to reduce the additional sea salt if you choose to use a bouillon cube as it contains salt.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these Greek lemon potatoes are vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
Can I use fresh oregano?
While the recipe calls for dried oregano, you can use fresh, though the flavor intensity may vary.
How do I get the potatoes crispy?
Letting them bake until they have a golden finish and not being afraid to let them get a bit crispy is key to the flavor.
Why do the potatoes need water in the pan?
The water helps the potatoes cook through and stay tender on the inside while the oil and heat crisp the outside.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best zesty flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
What main dishes go well with these potatoes?
They are a perfect side dish for roasts, grilled meats, or can be enjoyed on their own.
How many wedges will each potato yield?
Cutting each large potato results in about 6 to 7 large wedges.
What is the purpose of letting garlic settle into the liquid?
Allowing the garlic to settle into the liquid ensures a thorough flavor infusion throughout the roasting process.
Should I add more seasoning during the stir?
Yes, adding a pinch more sea salt, pepper, and oregano when stirring halfway helps enhance the final taste.
Is it okay to use foil in the pan?
The recipe suggests cleanup is harder without foil, but roasting directly on the pan often yields better browning.
How much oregano is used?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of dried oregano, or you can add it to taste.
Are these potatoes considered comfort food?
Yes, they are described as a comforting yet fresh dish that balances zesty lemon with hearty potatoes.