Crispy-skinned, fluffy-centered, and topped with a bright, flavorful blend of Mediterranean ingredients.
This simple air fryer recipe turns humble potatoes into a satisfying meal or hearty side that’s both wholesome and customizable.
🥔 Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes (or substitute with Yukon Golds for a creamier texture)
- 1 ½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste (preferably sea salt or kosher salt)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth and color)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Mediterranean Topping Ideas (choose your favorites or mix and match):
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce
- 1 small tomato, diced
- ¼ cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or oregano, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Lemon wedges, for serving
🧑🍳 Instructions
1. Prep the Potatoes
- Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt, then pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Using a fork, poke holes all over each potato (about 4–5 times per potato). This allows steam to escape while cooking, ensuring fluffy insides and preventing them from bursting.
2. Season and Oil
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil with garlic powder, smoked paprika, a pinch of salt, and black pepper.
- Brush each potato generously with the seasoned oil mixture, making sure all sides are evenly coated. Tip: The oil mixture not only helps the skin crisp up but also infuses subtle Mediterranean aromatics into every bite.
3. Air Fry
- Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer—avoid overcrowding so the air can circulate freely.
- Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 35–45 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
- Smaller potatoes may be ready in 35 minutes, while larger ones can take up to 45.
- To check doneness, squeeze gently using tongs or a kitchen towel—the potato should feel tender inside and the skin should be golden and crisp.
4. Prepare the Mediterranean Toppings
While the potatoes cook, assemble your toppings:
- In a small bowl, combine diced tomato, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
- Drizzle with a little olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice, and sprinkle with chopped parsley, dill, or oregano. Toss lightly to blend. This creates a quick, fresh Mediterranean “salsa” that adds brightness to your potatoes.
5. Serve
- Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly for a minute or two.
- Slice each potato lengthwise and gently fluff the interior with a fork.
- Spoon over a generous dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki.
- Add the tomato-cucumber-olive mixture on top.
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice.
🌸 Optional Add-Ons and Variations
- Mediterranean Veggie Medley: Add roasted bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes for more color and texture.
- Protein Boost: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas tossed in lemon and herbs.
- Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative and omit the feta, or use vegan feta.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or za’atar seasoning for extra flavor.
🍋 Serving Suggestions
Serve these Mediterranean Air Fryer Baked Potatoes as:
- A light main course with a crisp green salad.
- A hearty side dish for grilled fish, lamb, or chicken.
- A vegetarian lunch topped with extra veggies and chickpeas.