Name: Crispy Greek Smashed Potatoes to Elevate Your Dinner Game
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8-12 medium potatoes (such as King Edward or Yukon Gold); 2-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling); to taste salt; to taste pepper; 100 grams feta cheese (crumbled); 3-4 cloves garlic (thinly sliced); 1 medium red onion (sliced); 2-3 tablespoons capers or black olives (optional); 2-3 sprigs rosemary (fresh); 1 medium lemon (cut into wedges)

In the heart of my kitchen, the comforting aroma of roasted garlic and rosemary wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to a sun-drenched Greek taverna. This inspired me to whip up a batch of Greek Smashed Potatoes with Feta, a dish that offers the perfect balance of crispy edges and fluffy interiors all in one bite. Not only is this recipe quick to prepare, but it’s also bursting with flavor and can be made vegetarian-friendly or gluten-free with a few simple swaps. Imagine serving these scrumptious spuds alongside your favorite protein or as part of a vibrant Mediterranean spread. Are you ready to take your side dishes to the next level? Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why are Greek Smashed Potatoes special?

Crispy, Each bite of these Greek Smashed Potatoes offers a delightful crunch thanks to the roasting process, creating an unbeatable texture. Quick preparation means you’ll have this stunning side dish ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights. Versatile options such as making them vegetarian or gluten-free ensure everyone can enjoy them. Add them to your dinner table next to grilled meats or as a stand-alone treat with friends and family. You might also like to try pairing them with Savory Slow Potatoes for a true flavor explosion!

Greek Smashed Potatoes Ingredients

For the Potatoes
• Potatoes – 8-12 medium roasting potatoes, such as King Edward or Yukon Gold, work best for a fluffy interior.
• Olive Oil – A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil enhances the crispiness and rich flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste.

For the Flavor Boosters
• Feta Cheese – This adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor; for a milder taste, consider substituting with Manouri cheese.
• Garlic – Use whole cloves sliced thinly for an aromatic kick that complements the potatoes.
• Red Onion – Adds sweet notes and a bit of crunch; shallots can be used as a milder alternative.
• Capers or Black Olives – Introduce a briny flavor that balances the creaminess of the feta; feel free to swap for your favorite olives.

For the Herb Infusion
• Rosemary – Fresh sprigs are recommended for aromatic flavor, though dry rosemary can be used in smaller amounts.
• Lemon – Serve with wedges to squeeze over the finished dish, adding acidity and brightness to each bite.

These Greek Smashed Potatoes are a glorious blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for a quick preparation, they’re a must-try on your dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Greek Smashed Potatoes with Feta and Rosemary

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). While the oven heats, generously drizzle olive oil into a large skillet or roasting tray, ensuring the surface is well coated. This oil will help achieve that tantalizing crispiness that defines your Greek Smashed Potatoes, setting the stage for the perfect roast.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Rinse your 8-12 medium roasting potatoes thoroughly and pierce them a few times with a fork. Wrap them in damp paper towels and microwave for 7-12 minutes until they are fork-tender and easily pierced. This quick step ensures a fluffy inside for your ultimate Greek Smashed Potatoes while speeding up the cooking process.

Step 3: Smash the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are soft, gently transfer them to the prepared skillet. Use the bottom of a sturdy glass or a potato masher to press down on each potato, smashing them just enough to expose some flesh while maintaining their overall shape. This technique creates rustic, crispy edges that will soon get that golden-brown finish.

Step 4: Season and Flavor
Drizzle olive oil over the smashed potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated for flavor and crispiness. Next, sprinkle generously with salt and pepper, blending taste and texture. Scatter thinly sliced garlic, fresh rosemary sprigs, and lemon wedges around the potatoes, infusing them with aromatic notes that will elevate your Greek Smashed Potatoes.

Step 5: Roast in the Oven
Carefully place the skillet in the preheated oven and roast for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on the potatoes; they should start to develop a beautiful golden color on the edges by this time. This phase is crucial for achieving that delightful crunchy exterior that perfectly complements the soft inside.

Step 6: Add the Final Touches
After 10 minutes, carefully remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle crumbled feta, sliced red onion, and capers (or olives) over the top of the potatoes. Return the skillet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to soften and melt slightly while the other ingredients meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Serve and Squeeze
Finally, remove the skillet from the oven and let the enticing aroma wrap around you. Squeeze fresh lemon juice from the roasted wedges over the Greek Smashed Potatoes right before serving. This final touch adds a refreshing brightness that perfectly balances the richness of the feta and savory flavors. Serve warm and enjoy every crispy, fluffy bite!

Greek Smashed Potatoes Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and make these Greek Smashed Potatoes your own! Each twist opens up new possibilities for flavors and textures.

Dairy-Free: Replace feta with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese for a creamy alternative. You’ll maintain that savory punch without the dairy.
Gluten-Free: Ensure any capers or olives are certified gluten-free. This small swap lets everyone enjoy the dish!
Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or oregano for an added burst of flavor. The aromatic notes will transport you to a sun-soaked garden.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or paprika for a delightful heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy feta. Spice up your dinner routine with this zesty touch!
Texture Twist: After smashing, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the potatoes before roasting for an extra crunchy finish. It’s a surprising texture that everyone will love!
Protein Boost: Top with cooked lentils or canned tuna for a heartier meal. This variation transforms the dish into a satisfying main course that packs a nutritional punch.
Different Cheese: Switch feta for goat cheese or tangy blue cheese to explore unique flavors. Each cheese offers a distinct character that elevates the dish.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, consider trying these alongside Savory Slow Potatoes or as a stunning side dish with Roasted Leg Lamb. Customize, enjoy, and share the joy of cooking with your loved ones!

What to Serve with Crispy Greek Smashed Potatoes with Feta?

Elevate your mealtime experience by pairing these delightful potatoes with complementary dishes that enhance their scrumptious flavors.

Grilled Lemon Chicken: A zesty and juicy option, the citrus marinade in the chicken mirrors the lemon’s brightness in the potatoes, creating a harmonizing flavor pair.
Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables: Colorful veggies add a burst of freshness, their caramelized sweetness balancing the salty feta and earthy rosemary beautifully.
Greek Salad: Crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and olives blend seamlessly, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy potatoes.
Balsamic Glazed Salmon: The sweet-tart glaze on the salmon cuts through the creaminess of the potatoes, making each bite both rich and refreshing.
Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, yogurt-based dip made with cucumber and garlic is perfect for drizzling over your smashed potatoes, adding a delightful creaminess.
Crispy Artichoke Hearts: Their crunchy texture and tangy flavor bring another layer of excitement, enhancing the dining experience with each bite.
Pine Nut Couscous: A fluffy side that absorbs flavors well, a light couscous dish sprinkled with pine nuts offers a gentle earthiness that balances the boldness of the potatoes.
Provencal Rosé: A chilled glass of this fruity wine brings a refreshing twist to your meal, enhancing the bright flavors of both the potatoes and accompanying dishes.
Baklava: For dessert, this sweet and flaky pastry drizzled with honey and nuts provides a wonderful contrast to the savory, crispy potatoes, ending your meal on a delightful note.

Make Ahead Options

These Greek Smashed Potatoes are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance by rinsing, piercing, and microwaving them until fork-tender, then storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their quality, drizzle a little olive oil over the potatoes before cooling to help keep them moist. When you’re ready to serve, simply smash the prepared potatoes, drizzle with more olive oil, season, and roast them as directed in the recipe. This way, you’ll enjoy the same crispy, fluffy goodness on busy weeknights—just as delicious and ready in no time!

How to Store and Freeze Greek Smashed Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftover Greek Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the smashed potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To bring back the crispy texture, reheat thawed potatoes in an air fryer or oven at 190°C (375°F) for about 10-15 minutes. This way, you can enjoy that delightful crunch all over again!

Expert Tips for Greek Smashed Potatoes

• Perfect Potato Choice: Select starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or King Edward for a fluffy interior that complements the crispy exterior of Greek Smashed Potatoes.

• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper when drizzling olive oil; proper seasoning is key to enhancing flavors throughout the dish.

• Smashing Technique: Be gentle but firm when smashing the potatoes to avoid turning them into mush; aim for rustic shapes for optimal crispiness.

• Even Roasting: Ensure enough spacing in the roasting tray to allow the potatoes to crisp properly; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting.

• Serve Fresh: For maximum crispiness, enjoy the Greek Smashed Potatoes immediately after cooking; reheating can soften the delightful crunch.

Greek Smashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes work best for Greek Smashed Potatoes?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold or King Edward potatoes are ideal as they have the perfect balance of starchiness and moisture, resulting in a fluffy interior when cooked. Make sure to rinse and pierce them before cooking to ensure even cooking and to prevent them from bursting!

How should I store leftover Greek Smashed Potatoes?
Very easy! Once cooled, store your leftover Greek Smashed Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them from getting soggy, try to separate layers with parchment paper if stacking.

Can I freeze Greek Smashed Potatoes?
For sure! First, freeze the smashed potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag where they can stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw and reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore their crispy texture.

How can I ensure my Greek Smashed Potatoes come out crispy?
To achieve that desirable crunch, be generous with the olive oil and don’t crowd the baking tray. Smash the potatoes enough to expose some flesh, but keep their shape intact. The more space they have in the oven, the better the heat circulation, ensuring a beautifully crisp exterior.

Are Greek Smashed Potatoes suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! The ingredients in Greek Smashed Potatoes are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to choose certified gluten-free capers or olives if you’re using those as toppings. This dish is a fantastic vegetarian side that everyone can enjoy!