Flavorful Lemon Oregano Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Introduction:
These Lemon Oregano Mini Hasselback Potatoes are a delicious and beautiful twist on traditional roasted potatoes. The thinly sliced layers create crispy edges, while the inside stays tender and fluffy. The bright flavors of lemon, oregano, and garlic make these a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, salads, or as an impressive appetizer for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Crispy and tender: Thin cuts create crispy edges with a soft interior.
• Fresh flavors: Lemon and oregano give these potatoes a refreshing and zesty flavor.
• Impressive presentation: Hasselback potatoes look elegant, but they’re simple to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs baby potatoes (mini Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Place each baby potato between two wooden spoons or chopsticks. This will help prevent you from cutting all the way through the potato.
   • Using a sharp knife, make thin, even slices about 1/8 inch apart, stopping just before the bottom to keep the potato intact. Repeat with all the potatoes.
3. Make the Lemon Oregano Mixture:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Coat the Potatoes:
   • Arrange the sliced potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Brush or drizzle the lemon oregano mixture generously over the potatoes, making sure to get the oil into the slits.
   • If needed, use your fingers or a small spoon to gently fan the potato slices open so the oil and seasoning get inside each cut.
5. Roast the Potatoes:
   • Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden, and the inside is tender.
   • Halfway through baking, you can brush the potatoes again with the remaining lemon oregano mixture to enhance flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm, and enjoy the crispy, flavorful mini Hasselback potatoes!

Tips for Success:

• Uniform slicing: Try to make the slices as even as possible for consistent cooking.
• Crispy texture: If you want extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for the last 3-5 minutes of roasting, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Recipe Variations:

• Add cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled feta over the potatoes for added flavor.
• Herb swaps: Substitute oregano with thyme, rosemary, or dill for different herbaceous flavors.

Serving Suggestions:

• These potatoes make a great side dish for roasted meats, fish, or grilled vegetables.
• Serve as a fun appetizer with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or sour cream.

Freezing and Storage:

• Storage: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Special Equipment:

• Sharp knife for making precise slices.
• Wooden spoons or chopsticks to help guide your cuts.

FAQ:

• Can I use larger potatoes?
  Yes, you can use larger Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, but the cooking time will increase. Adjust as needed.
• Do I need to peel the potatoes?
  No, baby potatoes have thin skins that crisp up nicely, so there’s no need to peel them.

Preparation Time:

• 15 minutes for slicing and prepping the potatoes.

Cook Time:

• 35-45 minutes for roasting the potatoes.

Total Time:

• 50-60 minutes (including prep and cook time).

Nutrition Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 1g

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Closing Notes:
These Lemon Oregano Mini Hasselback Potatoes are a great way to add a burst of flavor to your meal with minimal effort. Crispy, tender, and zesty, they’re perfect for any occasion and look stunning on the table!