Greek Fries

Greek Fries are a delightful twist on traditional fries. Bursting with flavor from fresh herbs and spices, these crispy treats make for an excellent side dish or snack. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a cozy night in, Greek Fries stand out with their aromatic seasoning and fresh toppings. They are sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these fries in no time.
• Flavors that Pop: The combination of dill, oregano, and garlic powder creates a unique flavor profile that elevates standard fries.
• Versatile Side Dish: Greek Fries pair well with various main dishes or can be enjoyed as a snack on their own.
• Fresh Toppings: Topped with red onion, parsley, and feta cheese, these fries bring freshness and color to your plate.
• Healthy Twist: Baked instead of fried, they are a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Greek Fries successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment streamlines the cooking process and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for even cooking of the fries, allowing them to crisp up nicely in the oven.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.
• Large bowl: Ideal for soaking the potatoes and mixing them with seasonings before 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 the Toppings

• 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 to ensure it is hot enough for crisping the fries perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

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

Step 3: Soak the Potatoes

Place the cut fries into a large bowl filled with cold water. Soak them for 10 to 15 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch and achieves a crunchier texture. Drain the fries well and dry them completely using paper towels.

Step 4: Season the Fries

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

Step 5: Bake the Fries

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread out the seasoned potato sticks in an even layer without overcrowding. Bake for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Flip for Crispiness

After 15 minutes, take the baking sheet out of the oven carefully. Flip each fry over using tongs or a spatula. Return them to bake for another 6 to 8 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Add Toppings

Once baked to perfection, transfer your Greek Fries to a serving plate. Sprinkle generously with chopped parsley, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese for that vibrant finish.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Serve your delightful Greek Fries warm alongside tzatziki sauce, aioli, or lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy this flavorful twist on classic fries!

How to Serve Greek Fries

Greek Fries are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, side dish, or part of a larger meal, these fries are sure to impress.

With Dipping Sauces

• Tzatziki: A creamy yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic that complements the seasoned fries perfectly.
• Aioli: This garlicky mayonnaise enhances the flavor of Greek fries, adding richness with every bite.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the fries and adds a zesty kick.

As Part of a Salad

• Greek Salad: Toss Greek fries into a refreshing salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta for a hearty dish.
• Chickpea Salad: Combine with chickpeas, red onion, and herbs for an even more filling option.

On a Platter

• Appetizer Platter: Serve Greek fries alongside assorted appetizers like stuffed grape leaves, hummus, and olives for a Mediterranean feast.
• Family Style: Present Greek fries in a large bowl for family-style dining; it encourages sharing and interaction.

How to Perfect Greek Fries

Creating the perfect Greek Fries requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and natural sweetness.
• Soak Before Baking: Soaking the cut potatoes helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
• Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleaning easier.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Leave enough space between each fry on the baking sheet to allow proper air circulation for even cooking.
• Flip Halfway Through Cooking: Flipping the fries halfway ensures they brown evenly on all sides.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Fries

When serving Greek Fries, pair them with delightful side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy pieces of marinated chicken served on skewers make a protein-rich complement.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This healthy salad packed with quinoa, cucumbers, and feta offers great texture alongside crispy fries.
4. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These flavorful bites filled with rice and herbs serve as an authentic Mediterranean side dish.
5. Marinated Olives: A selection of marinated olives brings saltiness that pairs well with the fries’ flavors.
6. Fried Zucchini Chips: Crispy zucchini slices add crunch and can be dipped in the same sauces as your Greek fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the Soak: Soaking fries in cold water helps remove excess starch and results in crispier fries. Don’t skip this step!

• Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden brown color.

• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: If you place too many fries on a baking sheet, they will steam instead of bake. Spread them out in a single layer for best results.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Be generous with your spices! Proper seasoning elevates the flavor of Greek Fries. Toss them well to ensure every fry is coated.

• Serving Cold: Greek Fries are at their best when served warm. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or reheat properly for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Greek Fries in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Greek Fries

• Place cooled fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating Greek Fries

• Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 30-60 seconds, but be aware this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet and add fries, cooking until warmed and crispy on all sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Greek Fries:

How do I make Greek Fries crispy?

To achieve crispy Greek Fries, soak them in cold water before baking and ensure they are spread out evenly on the baking sheet.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes! Sweet potatoes can be used as a delicious alternative for a different flavor profile while still maintaining that crispy texture.

What can I serve with Greek Fries?

Greek Fries pair well with tzatziki, aioli, or even lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Are Greek Fries suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These fries store well in the refrigerator or freezer, making them perfect for meal prep options throughout the week.

How can I customize my Greek Fries?

You can customize your Greek Fries by adding different toppings like olives, jalapeños, or using various herbs and spices according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

Greek Fries offer a delightful twist on traditional fries with their unique blend of herbs and toppings. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or snack, they are versatile enough to suit any meal. Feel free to experiment with different toppings or seasonings to make this recipe your own!