In this post
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Vegan Side Dish
Looking for a show-stopping side dish that fits the Mediterranean diet? These Lemon Herb Hasselback Potatoes are the perfect blend of crispy, golden edges and a soft, buttery center. Whether you need a healthy holiday potato recipe or a simple vegan side dish, these potatoes infused with extra virgin olive oil and fresh garlic bring a rustic yet elegant touch to any dinner table.
Unlike traditional recipes that rely on butter, our Mediterranean version uses high-quality olive oil, making it naturally vegan and dairy-free. The addition of lemon zest cuts through the richness, creating a refreshing flavor profile that pairs perfectly with grilled fish, roasted chicken, or a fresh Greek salad.
The Secret to These Flavors
What makes these Lemon Herb Hasselback Potatoes so special is the way the lemon zest and fresh herbs infuse into every single slice. As the potatoes roast, the spaces between the slices act like little pockets that hold the garlic and rosemary oil, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. The citrusy brightness of the lemon perfectly balances the earthy herbs, making these Lemon Herb Hasselback Potatoes much more exciting than your average roasted potato dish.
What Makes These Potatoes Special:
- Maximum Crispiness: The “accordion” slices create more surface area for the herb oil to caramelize.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: We swap saturated fats for premium Mediterranean olive oil.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples to create a high-end look.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with different Mediterranean herbs like oregano or marjoram.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Hasselback Slice
To get those signature thin slices without cutting all the way through, use the “Chopstick Method.” Simply place a potato between two wooden spoons or chopsticks. Your knife will hit the wood before it reaches the bottom, ensuring all slices stay attached to the base.
These crispy potatoes pair perfectly with a fresh green salad or my favorite cauliflower recipe.
I hope these Lemon Herb Hasselback Potatoes become a staple in your kitchen!
FAQ
Which potatoes are best for Hasselback?
Medium-sized starchy or all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Gold or Red Bliss stay intact during slicing and get incredibly crispy in the oven.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can slice the potatoes and keep them in cold water for up to 2 hours. However, for the best texture, brush the oil and roast them just before serving to maintain that Mediterranean crunch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, avoid the microwave! Use an oven or air fryer at 180°C to bring back the crispiness.
Why are my Hasselback potatoes not crispy
This usually happens if the slices are too thick or if there isn’t enough oil between them. Make sure to brush the herb oil generously inside the slits
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh
Yes, but use only 1 tablespoon of dried herbs for every 3 tablespoons of fresh, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Zesty Hasselback Potatoes
Ingredients
Method
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 400℉. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
- The "Accordion" Cut: Slice the potatoes into thin rounds. The trick is to stop just before you reach the bottom, so the slices stay connected at the base like a fan.Tip: Place a wooden spoon on either side of the potato to act as a "stop" for your knife.
- Make the Lemon Herb Oil: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Dress: Place the potatoes on the tray. Generously brush the oil mixture over them, making sure to get plenty of that herbal goodness down between the slices.
- Roast: Bake for about 60 minutes. You want the insides tender and the edges golden-brown.
- The Finish: For extra crunch, kick the heat up to 190°C for the final 10 minutes of roasting.
Notes
- The Chopstick Hack: To prevent cutting all the way through, place two wooden spoons or chopsticks on either side of the potato. They act as a guard for your knife.
- Salt Adjustment: This recipe uses fine table salt. If you prefer using Coarse Sea Salt (Maldon or Atlantic), increase the amount to 1.5 teaspoons for 8 potatoes.
- The Zest Factor: Use a microplane for the lemon zest and avoid the white pith, which can be bitter. For an extra pop of color, sprinkle a little fresh zest over the potatoes right before serving.
- Uniform Slicing: Try to keep your slices about 3mm apart. The thinner the slices, the crispier the potato!
- Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat them in an oven or Air Fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 5-8 minutes to restore the crunch. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy.
