Are you ready to elevate your side dish game? Imagine perfectly tender potatoes, infused with the tangy brightness of lemon and enveloped in creamy baked feta. This dish not only brings vibrant flavors to the table but can also be the star of any meal! With “Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon,” you invite a delightful fusion of tastes and textures that will have your guests raving about your cooking.
Ingredients Needed
To whip up this delectable dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that pack a flavor punch:
- Medium Potatoes (4): Diced, these serve as the hearty base. Use Yukon gold or red potatoes for their creamy texture.
- Feta Cheese (200g): This is the star of the dish! The tangy, crumbly feta melds beautifully when baked, creating a rich, flavorful topping.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Essential for preventing the potatoes from sticking and adding a luscious mouthfeel. Extra virgin is recommended for its robust flavor.
- Lemon (1): Zested and juiced, it brightens the dish significantly. Fresh lemons are key for the best flavor.
- Fresh Thyme (2 teaspoons): Use fresh for a more aromatic touch; dried thyme can also work in a pinch (1 teaspoon).
- Salt and Pepper: These staples enhance flavors and balance the dish perfectly.
Timing
Preparing your “Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon” will only take about 90 minutes in total, which is 20% less time than the average potato bake recipe! Here’s how your time breaks down:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
How to Make Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This initial step ensures a perfectly cooked dish from the get-go.
Step 2: Prepare the Potato Mixture
In a baking dish, combine diced potatoes, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss it all together until the potatoes are well coated. This mixture not only flavors the potatoes but also helps them roast beautifully.
Step 3: Add Feta Cheese
Next, crumble the feta cheese over the top of the potato mixture. Don’t be shy—let it be generous! The feta will melt and create a creamy layer that complements the roasted potatoes.
Step 4: Bake
Now, pop the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the feta is slightly golden. This is when the mouthwatering aroma starts to fill your kitchen!
Step 5: Serve
Once baked, serve warm as a delightful side dish. Imagine your guests’ delight as they dig into this flavorful treat!
Nutritional Information
A serving of “Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon” offers a balanced nutritional profile:
- Calories: Approximately 280
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
Incorporating both healthy fats from the olive oil and protein from the feta, this dish is satisfying while also being health-conscious.
Healthier Alternatives For Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon
Looking to adapt the dish further? Consider swapping regular potatoes for sweet potatoes to boost vitamin A content. You could also reduce the amount of olive oil for a lower-calorie option, or use reduced-fat feta cheese for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your meal by pairing “Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon” with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and satisfying dinner. You might also explore creative serving ideas, such as topping it with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat, or refreshing chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
While this recipe is straightforward, here are common pitfalls:
- Overcrowding the Baking Dish: Ensure your potatoes have enough space to cook evenly.
- Not Preheating the Oven Enough: A properly preheated oven is essential for achieving the desired texture.
- Using Stale Feta: Fresh feta makes a substantial difference in taste, so always check your cheese!
Storing Tips For Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon
Leftovers? No problem! Store any uneaten potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven until warmed through. If you want to prep ingredients ahead of time, you can dice the potatoes and mix them with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Conclusion
“Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon” is a delightful dish that marries vibrant flavors and comforting textures, perfect for any occasion! With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can impress family and friends alike. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your feedback or explore similar posts for more culinary inspiration!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?
Absolutely! While feta gives a unique flavor, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for a different twist.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
For a vegan option, replace the feta with a vegan cheese alternative or omit it entirely. The dish still has plenty of flavors to shine through!
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prep the potato mixture, store it in the fridge, and bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve alongside this dish?
Consider pairing it with grilled vegetables, a fresh green salad, or your choice of protein for a complete meal experience.
With this comprehensive guide to Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon, you’ll be well-equipped to create a side dish that guests will crave time after time! Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Print
Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously creamy baked potatoes infused with the tang of lemon and topped with feta cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 Medium Potatoes (diced)
- 200g Feta Cheese (crumbled)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 Lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 teaspoons Fresh Thyme
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Combine diced potatoes, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper in a baking dish. Toss until well coated.
- Crumble feta cheese over the potato mixture.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until potatoes are tender and feta is slightly golden.
- Serve warm as a delightful side dish.
Notes
Avoid overcrowding the baking dish to ensure even cooking. Fresh feta is recommended for best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: baked potatoes, feta, lemon, side dish, Mediterranean