Greek-Style Potatoes

 This is one of my favorite potato recipes.  The olive oil, lemon juice and oregano blend well together to create a flavorful side dish that accompanies any main course.

 Ingredients:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 1/2 pounds fingerling potatoes, cut in half lengthwise

4 medium cloves garlic, mince or pressed through a garlic press

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon grated zest and 2 tablespoons juice from 2 lemons

2 tablespoons minced fresh oregano leaves

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley leaves

 Directions:

Heat the oil and butter in a 12-inch heavy-bottom nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until the butter melts and foaming subsides, swirling the pan occasionally.  Add the potatoes in a single layer and cook until golden brown (the pan should sizzle but not smoke), about 6 minutes.  Using tongs, turn the potatoes.  Cook until deep golden brown on the second side, about 5 minutes longer.  Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover tightly, and cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with the tip of a paring knife, about 6 minutes.

 While the potatoes cook, combine the garlic, oil, lemon zest and juice, and oregano in a small bowl.  When the potatoes are tender, add the garlic-lemon mixture, salt, and pepper.  Stir carefully (so as not to break the potatoes) to distribute.  Cook, uncovered, until the seasoning mixture is heated through and fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes.  Sprinkle the potatoes with the parsley and stir gently to distribute it.  Serve immediately.  Serves 4.