Greek Fries

Greek Fries are a delightful twist on traditional fries, packed with vibrant flavors from herbs like dill and oregano. These crispy baked fries not only make an excellent side dish but also shine as a flavorful snack for any gathering. Topped with fresh parsley, red onion, and crumbly feta cheese, Greek Fries are sure to impress both family and friends at your next meal or celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making Greek Fries is a breeze.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices creates a savory, aromatic flavor that elevates the humble fry.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack; they can be enjoyed on various occasions.
• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these Greek Fries provide a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable Toppings: Serve them with tzatziki or aioli for an extra flavor kick; feel free to get creative!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make preparing Greek Fries quick and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides ample space for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispiness.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, allowing easy removal of the fries after baking.

Ingredients

For the Fries

• 4 large Yukon Gold Potatoes
• 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

For Topping

• 1/2 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• 1 medium red onion (finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• tzatziki, aioli or lemon wedges (optional)

How to Make Greek Fries

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your Greek Fries will bake evenly and get perfectly crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly while keeping the skins on.
2. Cut them into 1/3-inch wide sticks, ensuring uniform length for even cooking.

Step 3: Soak the Fries

Place the cut fries in a large bowl filled with cold water. Soak them for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, leading to crispier fries.

Step 4: Season the Fries

After soaking, drain and dry the fries thoroughly. In a large mixing bowl:
– Toss the fries with olive oil.
– Add salt, oregano, dill, black pepper, and garlic powder.
– Ensure each fry is well coated with seasoning.

Step 5: Bake the Fries

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread out the seasoned fries in an even layer:
– Bake for 15 minutes.
– Carefully flip them over and continue baking for another 6 to 8 minutes until golden brown and crisp.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Once baked, transfer your fries to a serving plate. Top them generously with finely chopped parsley, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Enjoy your Greek Fries warm with optional tzatziki or aioli on the side for dipping!

How to Serve Greek Fries

Greek Fries are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their crispy texture and zesty flavor make them an excellent addition to any meal or as a snack on their own.

With Dips

• Tzatziki: This creamy yogurt-based dip pairs perfectly with the spices in Greek fries.
• Aioli: A garlic-flavored mayonnaise that adds richness and depth of flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors, making each bite refreshing.

As a Side Dish

• Grilled Chicken: Serve Greek fries alongside grilled chicken marinated in lemon and herbs for a complete meal.
• Lamb Kebabs: The aromatic spices of lamb complement the fries beautifully.
• Stuffed Peppers: Pairing with stuffed peppers creates a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

In a Wrap

• Pita Bread Wraps: Fill warm pita with Greek fries, tzatziki, and fresh veggies for a delicious wrap.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, use lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with Greek fries and toppings.

How to Perfect Greek Fries

Achieving the ideal Greek Fries involves attention to detail during preparation. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Soak the Potatoes: Soaking potatoes helps remove excess starch, leading to crispier fries.
• Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spreading fries out allows them to bake evenly and become crispy all around.
• Flip Halfway: Turning the fries during baking promotes even browning on all sides.
• Season Generously: Make sure each fry is evenly coated with spices for maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Fries

Pairing side dishes with your Greek Fries can elevate your meal. Here are some complementary options.

1. Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese adds crunch and acidity.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide color and nutrition while balancing the richness of the fries.
3. Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus flavors served with pita chips or vegetables makes for a satisfying snack.
4. Tabbouleh Salad: This herbaceous salad made from parsley, bulgur wheat, tomato, and lemon is light yet flavorful.
5. Baked Falafel: Crispy falafel bites add protein while keeping with Mediterranean flavors.
6. Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl: A bowl of quinoa topped with chickpeas, cucumbers, and tahini offers wholesome goodness alongside your fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Greek Fries, avoiding common pitfalls will ensure delicious results every time.

• Skipping the soak: Soaking fries in cold water removes excess starch, leading to crispier fries. Don’t skip this step!
• Not drying properly: After soaking, make sure to dry the fries thoroughly. Excess moisture can lead to soggy fries.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Spreading fries too close together prevents even cooking and browning. Use multiple sheets if necessary.
• Ignoring seasoning: Properly seasoning your Greek Fries is key. Don’t be shy with the herbs and spices for that authentic flavor!
• Underbaking: Ensure the fries are baked until golden brown for the best texture. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Greek Fries in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Greek Fries

• Place cooled Greek Fries in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Greek Fries

• Oven: Preheat to 400°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes but note they may become soggy.
• Stovetop: In a skillet, heat with a little oil over medium heat until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Greek Fries that might help you perfect your dish.

How do I make Greek Fries healthier?

Consider using less olive oil or opting for an air fryer instead of baking them in oil to reduce fat content.

Can I use other potatoes for Greek Fries?

Absolutely! While Yukon Golds are great, you can also experiment with russets or sweet potatoes for different flavors and textures.

What can I serve with Greek Fries?

Greek Fries pair well with tzatziki sauce, aioli, or fresh lemon wedges for added zest.

How do I store leftover Greek Fries?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Greek Fries are not just a tasty side; they offer versatility and can be customized with various toppings. Whether paired with dips or enjoyed as a snack, these well-seasoned fries are sure to impress. Try experimenting with different herbs or adding your favorite toppings!