Greek Fries

Greek Fries are a delightful twist on traditional fries, combining the flavors of Greece with crispy potato goodness. Perfect for parties, casual dinners, or as a tasty snack, these Greek Fries are seasoned to perfection with herbs like dill and oregano. Topped with fresh parsley, red onion, and crumbly feta cheese, they offer a unique flavor profile that will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of herbs and spices creates an irresistible taste that elevates the humble fry.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair these fries with various dips like tzatziki or aioli for added flavor.
• Healthy Alternative: Baked instead of fried, these Greek Fries provide a delicious option without excess oil.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a gathering or a family meal, these fries are sure to be a hit.

Tools and Preparation

To make Greek Fries, having the right tools can make the cooking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and crispiness for your fries.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Large mixing bowl: Allows for thorough mixing of the fries with seasonings.

Ingredients

For these tasty Greek Fries, gather the following ingredients:

Potatoes

• 4 large Yukon Gold Potatoes

Seasonings

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Toppings

• 1/2 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• 1 medium red onion (finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)

Optional Dips

• tzatziki, aioli or lemon wedges

How to Make Greek Fries

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash the potatoes while keeping the skins on. Cut them into 1/3-inch wide sticks, ensuring each fry is uniform in length.

Step 3: Soak the Fries

Place the cut fries in a large bowl filled with cold water. Soak them for 10 to 15 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and dry them thoroughly using paper towels.

Step 4: Season the Fries

In a large mixing bowl, toss the dried fries with olive oil, salt, oregano, dill, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.

Step 5: Bake the Fries

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the seasoned fries in an even layer on the sheet. Bake for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Flip for Crispiness

Carefully take them out after 15 minutes and flip each fry. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 6 to 8 minutes until they are crisp and golden brown.

Step 7: Add Fresh Toppings

Once baked, transfer the fries to a serving plate. Sprinkle finely chopped parsley, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese on top.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Serve your delicious Greek Fries warm with optional dips like tzatziki or aioli alongside lemon wedges for extra zest!

How to Serve Greek Fries

Greek Fries are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them as a side or a snack, these fries can be dressed up to suit any occasion.

With Dips

• Tzatziki: This refreshing yogurt and cucumber dip pairs perfectly with the seasoned fries.
• Aioli: A garlic-flavored mayonnaise adds creaminess and depth of flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the fries enhances their brightness.

As a Salad Base

• Greek Salad: Serve the fries topped with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives for a hearty meal.
• Herbed Quinoa Salad: Place fries over a bed of quinoa mixed with herbs for added nutrition.

For Meal Prep

• Pack in Containers: These fries can be made ahead and stored in meal prep containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Reheat in Oven: To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven rather than using a microwave.

How to Perfect Greek Fries

To achieve the best Greek Fries, follow these simple tips for maximum flavor and texture.

• Soak Before Baking: Soaking the potatoes in cold water removes excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
• Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the fries out evenly on the baking sheet to ensure they cook properly without steaming each other.
• Season After Cooking: Add fresh herbs like parsley after baking to keep their flavor vibrant.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Thickness: Thicker fries may require longer baking times; keep an eye on them for golden perfection.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Fries

Greek Fries complement many dishes, making them an excellent addition to your meal spread. Here are some perfect pairings:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken marinated in herbs brings protein to your meal.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender provide a healthy contrast.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with rice, beans, and spices, these add substance alongside your fries.
4. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives and feta enhances the Greek theme.
5. Lentil Soup: A warm bowl of lentil soup offers heartiness that complements crispy fries beautifully.
6. Spinach Feta Pie (Spanakopita): Flaky pastry filled with spinach and feta adds an extra layer of flavor to your plate.
7. Chickpea Salad: This protein-packed salad is refreshing and pairs well with seasoned fries.
8. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters serve as another veggie option that’s fun to eat alongside Greek Fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Greek Fries, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using the wrong potato: Choosing starchy potatoes like Russets can lead to mushy fries. Yukon Golds are ideal for their creamy texture and crispy finish.
• Skipping the soak: Not soaking the fries can result in less crispy outcomes. Soaking helps remove excess starch, giving you that perfect crunch.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: If fries are too close together, they will steam rather than bake. Spread them out in a single layer for optimal crispiness.
• Neglecting seasoning: Underseasoned fries can taste bland. Make sure to use enough salt and spices to enhance flavor throughout.
• Not flipping halfway: Failing to flip the fries can lead to uneven cooking. Turn them halfway through baking for a consistent golden color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Greek Fries in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Greek Fries

• For longer storage, freeze Greek Fries in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen fries can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Greek Fries

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Use this method for quick reheats, but be aware that they may lose some crispness. Heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil and fry the leftover fries until they become crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Greek Fries:

Can I make Greek Fries with sweet potatoes?

Yes! Sweet potatoes can offer a delightful twist on traditional Greek Fries and add natural sweetness.

What dipping sauces pair well with Greek Fries?

Tzatziki is a classic choice, but aioli or even a spicy ketchup can complement the flavors beautifully.

How can I spice up my Greek Fries?

Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or basil, or even sprinkle feta cheese or olives on top for extra flavor.

Are Greek Fries gluten-free?

Yes! As long as all ingredients used are gluten-free, these fries are suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Can I bake these in an air fryer?

Absolutely! An air fryer can yield very crispy results while using less oil than traditional frying methods.

Final Thoughts

Greek Fries are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various toppings or dips according to your preference. Try this recipe today; it’s sure to become a favorite side dish!