Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic
This warm and comforting dish combines crispy roasted potatoes with creamy, tangy baked feta, infused with the deep, mellow flavor of roasted garlic. Enhanced with a drizzle of honey, fresh basil, and a burst of lemon, it’s the perfect balance of savory and sweet. Ideal as a hearty side dish or a vegetarian main, this recipe is simple yet packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: 50–55 minutes
Servings: 2–3
Ingredients:
1–2 large baking potatoes, washed and cubed
7 oz (200 g) block of feta cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 head of garlic, top sliced off
1 lemon, quartered
1 tablespoon honey
¼ cup (20 g) fresh basil, chopped
Instructions:
Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare the potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Spread them out evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Add the garlic and feta:
Place the whole head of garlic (with the top sliced off) on the baking sheet. Drizzle it with a bit of olive oil and wrap loosely in foil. Place the block of feta in the center or corner of the sheet. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the feta.
Bake:
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the potatoes are golden and crispy, the garlic is soft, and the feta is warm and slightly browned.
Add lemon and honey:
In the last 5 minutes of baking, add the lemon quarters to the baking sheet so they caramelize slightly. Remove everything from the oven once done.
Assemble the dish:
Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and toss them with the roasted potatoes. Gently break the feta and mix slightly for a creamy texture. Drizzle the honey over the entire dish.
Finish and serve:
Sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the top. Serve immediately with the roasted lemon wedges for squeezing.
Tips:
Crispier Potatoes: For extra crispy potatoes, soak the cubed potatoes in cold water for 15–20 minutes before roasting. Drain and pat dry thoroughly before tossing with oil and seasoning.
Roasting Garlic: Wrap the garlic head in foil before baking to help it roast evenly and prevent burning. Once roasted, squeeze out the soft cloves and mix them into the potatoes or spread on bread.
Feta Texture: Bake the feta in a small dish or alongside the potatoes wrapped in foil to keep it soft and creamy without drying out.
Even Cooking: Cut potatoes into uniform cubes to ensure they cook evenly.
Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot out of the oven, when the feta is soft and the potatoes are crispy.
Variations:
Add Veggies: Toss in red onion wedges, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for more color and flavor.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil for heat.
Herb Swap: Use rosemary or fresh thyme instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant taste.
Different Cheese: Try using halloumi or goat cheese in place of feta for a different texture and flavor.
Lemon Zest: Add some lemon zest before serving for an extra citrusy brightness.
Q&A:
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can roast the potatoes and garlic ahead of time, but bake the feta and assemble everything just before serving to keep the textures fresh.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free—just make sure your feta and seasonings are labeled gluten-free.
Q: Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
A: You can, but the block holds its shape better during baking and gives a creamier result. Crumbled feta may dry out more easily.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the feta rubbery.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 3 Servings):
Calories: ~320 kcal
Protein: ~10 g
Fat: ~20 g
Carbohydrates: ~25 g
Fiber: ~3 g
Sugar: ~5 g
Sodium: ~700 mg
Note: Values may vary depending on exact portion sizes and specific brands used.
Conclusion:
Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic is a versatile, flavor-packed dish that celebrates simple ingredients with a Mediterranean twist. Whether you serve it as a side dish, vegetarian entrée, or part of a mezze spread, it’s guaranteed to impress with minimal effort. The combination of crispy potatoes, creamy feta, and roasted garlic, brightened with lemon and honey, makes every bite deeply satisfying and deliciously balanced.