Lemon potatoes are a bright and flavorful side dish, combining crispy roasted potatoes with the fresh zest and juice of lemons. Infused with garlic, oregano, and extra virgin olive oil, these potatoes are perfect for complementing chicken, fish, or a Mediterranean-inspired meal. With a simple marinade and slow roasting, you get potatoes that are golden, tender inside, and bursting with zesty flavor.
What Are Lemon Potatoes?
Lemon potatoes are a classic Mediterranean dish, often found in Greek and Italian cuisine. Potatoes are marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano, allowing the flavors to penetrate before roasting. The result is a tangy, aromatic, and comforting side dish that’s both refreshing and hearty.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside
- Fresh and zesty from lemon juice and zest
- Simple ingredients and easy prep
- Perfect for Mediterranean meals or weeknight dinners
- Customizable: Add extra herbs or spices to suit your taste
Pro Tips for Success
- Soak the potatoes: Keeping the potato wedges in cold water before roasting removes excess starch and helps them crisp up.
- Marinate well: Allowing the potatoes to sit in the lemon-garlic marinade enhances the flavor and ensures every bite is delicious.
- Flip halfway through: Turn the potatoes once during roasting for even crispiness and golden color.
- Use fresh lemon zest: It adds a bright, aromatic note that elevates the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of potato?
Yes! Waxy potatoes hold their shape better, while starchy potatoes will be fluffier inside. Russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes all work well.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Absolutely. You can marinate the potatoes for up to 2 hours in the fridge to intensify the flavors.
How long should I roast the potatoes?
Roast at 190°C (375°F) for about 60 minutes, turning halfway. Adjust time slightly depending on potato size and oven type.
Can I add other herbs?
Yes! Rosemary, thyme, or parsley are great additions that complement the lemon and garlic.
Are these potatoes healthy?
Yes! Using olive oil and roasting instead of frying keeps them lighter, while lemon adds flavor without extra calories.
How to Store
Store leftover roasted lemon potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet to restore crispiness.
How to Freeze
While best enjoyed fresh, roasted lemon potatoes can be frozen. Place cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven until warmed through and slightly crispy.
Ingredients
How to Make Lemon Potatoes
Cut the potatoes into wedges and soak them in cold water for 10–15 minutes. Drain well.
Cut the potatoes into wedges and soak them in cold water for 10–15 minutes. Drain well.
In a blender, combine lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic to create a smooth emulsion.
In a bowl, toss the potato wedges with lemon zest, oregano, and the lemon-garlic emulsion.
In a blender, combine lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic to create a smooth emulsion.
Cover with plastic wrap and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
In a bowl, toss the potato wedges with lemon zest, oregano, and the lemon-garlic emulsion.
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Transfer potatoes to a baking tray, leaving lemon zest behind in the bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
Cover with plastic wrap and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Roast for about 1 hour, turning halfway through. Baste with pan juices and sprinkle with extra oregano before serving.
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Transfer potatoes to a baking tray, leaving lemon zest behind in the bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot as a side dish or with your favorite Mediterranean meal.
;Resize,width=767;)
