Lemon Potatoes

Oh, let me tell you about lemon potatoes! They’re this amazing, sunny side dish that can really brighten up any meal. Picture this: golden, crispy roasted potatoes that are perfectly infused with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs… It’s like a little burst of sunshine on your plate. I always think of family dinners when I make them—everyone just dives in, and you can hear forks clinking and laughter while the delicious aromas swirl through the kitchen…

Why You’ll Crave It

• The perfect balance of crispy and tender, they never disappoint
• Zesty lemon adds freshness that makes it hard to stop eating!
• Versatile enough to serve with anything—grilled meats, fish, or just a simple salad
• So easy to whip up, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try them sooner
• A crowd-pleasing side that even the pickiest eaters love

The first time I made these, I literally couldn’t believe how fast they disappeared…

What You’ll Need

• 1 kg of new potatoes: those little ones are best, bright and shiny, just begging to be roasted
• 1 lemon: zested and juiced—get that bright flavor in every bite
• 4 tablespoons of olive oil: it gives that lovely richness, and you want it to be good quality, like extra virgin
• 2 cloves of garlic: crushed… because who doesn’t love garlic?
• A handful of fresh thyme leaves: the more, the merrier—it brings a lovely earthy quality
• Sea salt and black pepper: to taste, adding just the right kick of flavor

Easy How-To

Let’s Get Cooking!

First thing is to preheat your oven to 200°C (that’s 400°F, in case you’re wondering). While that’s heating up, wash and scrub the potatoes—get them nice and clean. Chop them into big, chunky pieces; don’t worry about being perfect—rustic is the way to go! Then, pop them into a saucepan, cover them with cold water, add a big pinch of salt, and bring that to a boil. You want to cook them for about 10 minutes; just until they’re tender but still holding their shape. It’s that delicate balance, you know? After that, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them steam dry for a few minutes… this step really makes a difference when you roast them.

Now, while they’re drying, pour some olive oil on a baking tray and swish it around so it’s all nice and coated. Toss those dried potatoes onto the tray, and make sure they’re well coated in the oil. Sprinkle on some salt, pepper, and the lovely lemon zest. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in a few herbs too.

Now comes the best part! Spread them out in a single layer on the tray, and roast them in that hot oven for about 40-45 minutes until they’re gorgeous and golden brown… Don’t forget to shake the pan halfway through for even cooking. Oh, and just before serving, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the top—you’ll love that vibrant finish!

Good to Know

• Try using waxy potatoes; they really hold up well and give that beautiful creamy texture
• Extra virgin olive oil is fabulous, but if you want a different flavor, feel free to swap it
• Have fun with herbs! Rosemary or parsley can really change things up

Serving Ideas

• Serve these lemon potatoes alongside grilled chicken or fish for a bright, delicious combo

Top Tricks

• For even crispier potatoes, let them dry out completely before roasting—that helps!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different potatoes; just keep in mind that waxy types like new potatoes or Yukon Golds are best for that creamy inside. But really, it’s about what you have on hand.

How can I make the potatoes extra crispy?

To bring on extra crispiness, parboil those potatoes, then allow them to dry thoroughly… that way, they’ll roast up beautifully!

What herbs pair well with lemon potatoes?

Oh, you’ve got options! Rosemary, thyme, or parsley work wonderfully with the lemon flavor; it’s all about finding what you love!

Can I prepare lemon potatoes in advance?

You bet! Just parboil and season them in advance. When you’re ready, pop them in the oven, and you’re good to go!

What should I serve with lemon potatoes?

These little gems go well with just about anything—from grilled meats to fresh salads. They’re just so versatile!

Conclusion

So there you have it! This lemon potatoes recipe is such a lovely way to brighten up a traditional dish—a true crowd-pleaser! With that zesty lemon and garlicky goodness, they’re a simple yet elegant addition that just elevates every meal.

More Recipe Suggestions and Combinations

Herb-Roasted Vegetables

Mix seasonal vegetables with olive oil, herbs, and lemon for a colorful side.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Transform boiled potatoes into creamy mashed potatoes – add some butter for richness!

Potato and Spinach Frittata

Fold those lemon potatoes into a frittata with fresh spinach and feta for a tasty brunch.

Crispy Potato Wedges

Season wedges with lemon zest and bake till golden for a delightful snack.

Greek Salad

Pair those lemon potatoes with a fresh Greek salad for a Mediterranean twist!