Description
These Baked Feta Potatoes offer a deliciously crispy and golden roasted potato experience, infused with fragrant herbs, roasted garlic, and creamy baked feta. Finished with fresh basil, a drizzle of honey, and a squeeze of lemon, this savory dish is perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying vegetarian main.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Seasonings
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon red chilli flakes
Dairy and Oils
- 1 200g block of feta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Other Ingredients
- 1 head of garlic (top cut off)
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup (20g) fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (390°F) to prepare it for roasting.
- Par-boil Potatoes: Wash and cube the potatoes, then put them in a saucepan covered with water. Bring to a boil and par-boil for 6-8 minutes, ensuring not to exceed 10 minutes to keep them firm. Drain and steam dry for 2-3 minutes.
- Season Potatoes: Transfer the par-boiled potatoes into a baking dish. Add dried thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir well to evenly coat the potatoes with the herbs and oil.
- Prepare Garlic: Drizzle the head of garlic with a little olive oil, wrap it tightly in foil, and place it in the baking dish alongside the potatoes.
- Roast Potatoes and Garlic: Place the baking dish in the oven and roast for 30-40 minutes, until the potatoes are golden, crispy on the outside, and nearly cooked through.
- Add Feta and Lemon: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Take out the roasted garlic. Place the 200g block of feta in the center of the potatoes, seasoning the feta by dipping one side in the pan juices and flipping it. Squeeze half the lemon over the feta.
- Continue Baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, allowing the feta to soften and slightly brown.
- Mash Roasted Garlic: Once cooled enough to handle, squeeze the garlic cloves out of their skins and mash them using the flat side of a knife to create a smooth garlic paste.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir the mashed garlic and juice from the other half of the lemon into the roasted potatoes along with the fresh basil. Gently mix everything together with a spoon, incorporating the baked feta evenly.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the honey over the potatoes, sprinkle the shredded fresh basil and red chili flakes on top for a spicy kick. Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful roasted potato and baked feta dish.
Notes
- Par-boiling the potatoes ensures they roast quickly and develop a crispy exterior without becoming mushy.
- Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to control the spiciness.
- Using fresh herbs like basil at the end enhances the freshness and aroma of the dish.
- For a milder garlic flavor, use 1-2 teaspoons of the mashed roasted garlic instead of the whole head.
- This recipe works well as a vegetarian main or a side dish accompanying grilled meats.
