There’s something about Greek cuisine that always brings me back to my travels through the sun-drenched islands of the Mediterranean. One of my fondest memories is sitting in a quaint taverna on the shores of Santorini, the salty breeze brushing past, as I indulged in a simple plate of roasted potatoes—crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, with just the right amount of lemon and oregano. It’s a taste that transports me back to those slow, relaxing afternoons where life felt a little simpler.
Inspired by those flavors, this Air Fryer Greek Potatoes recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, especially when I’m craving something quick but bursting with flavor. The tang of the lemon, combined with the earthiness of oregano and the subtle heat of garlic, makes these potatoes irresistible. Every time I prepare them, I’m reminded of the hospitality of the Greek people—their love for fresh, wholesome ingredients, and how they manage to make even the simplest dishes feel special.
What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something that feels both elevated and comforting. And since they’re made in the air fryer, there’s no need to turn on the oven, which is perfect for those warmer days when you still want something warm and crispy but don’t want to heat up the kitchen.
This dish is one of my go-to sides for family dinners. The kids love how crispy the potatoes get, and my husband always asks for extra lemon wedges to squeeze on top. It’s become a beloved part of our weeknight meals, especially when paired with grilled chicken or fish. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce new flavors to the little ones without overwhelming them.
Next time you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful side dish, give these Air Fryer Greek Potatoes a try. They’ll transport you to a coastal Greek taverna with every bite, just like they do for me.
Making Air Fryer Greek Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 pound small baby potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice from 1/2 lemon
Directions
- Thoroughly wash and scrub the baby potatoes, then pat them dry. Cut each potato in half and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil over the potatoes, then add the dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss to ensure all the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Place the seasoned potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry them for 15-17 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender.
- Once cooked, transfer the potatoes to a serving dish and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Serve warm, with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Storing Suggestion
Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Cooking Tips
For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of paprika or a dash of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. If you prefer softer potatoes, cook them for an extra 2-3 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
These potatoes pair well with grilled meats, such as chicken or lamb, and can be served alongside a fresh Greek salad. Consider garnishing with chopped fresh parsley or dill for added freshness.
Ingredient Substitutions
If baby potatoes are unavailable, you can use regular potatoes cut into smaller chunks. You can also replace olive oil with avocado oil for a different flavor profile. If you’re out of oregano, dried thyme or rosemary makes a great substitute.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or mint just before serving. During the colder months, try incorporating a bit of rosemary or sage for a more warming flavor.
Allergen Information
This recipe is free of common allergens like gluten, dairy, and nuts. If you’re avoiding garlic, you can omit the garlic powder or replace it with onion powder.
FAQ:
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used in place of baby potatoes. Adjust the cooking time slightly as sweet potatoes may cook faster.
What can I do if I don’t have an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the potatoes in the oven at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, tossing them halfway through for even cooking.
How do I make these potatoes extra crispy?
To make the potatoes even crispier, soak them in cold water for 30 minutes before seasoning. Drain and pat them dry thoroughly before air frying.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, you can use freshly minced garlic for a stronger flavor. Add it to the potatoes after they have cooked to prevent burning during air frying.
What is the best type of potato for this recipe?
Small, waxy potatoes like baby reds or fingerling potatoes work best for this recipe because they hold their shape well and have a smooth texture when cooked.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil before placing the potatoes in, or toss the potatoes with a bit more oil to help prevent sticking.
Air Fryer Greek Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 pound of small baby potatoes
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- Juice from 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Pour in the olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are well-coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
- Place the seasoned potatoes into the air fryer basket. Cook them for 15 to 17 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes. The potatoes are ready when they are tender inside and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Transfer the potatoes to a serving plate. Squeeze the juice of 1/2 a lemon over the top. Serve with additional lemon wedges if desired.
