Air Fryer Greek Fries with Tzatziki

Crispy golden on the outside, tender and fluffy on the inside French fries, but make it GREEK! That’s what this recipe is all about – after all who doesn’t love a good fries snack, or even side dish! These Air Fryer Greek Fries with Tzatziki are definitely a hit in our household. Each time they are made, they are devoured while hot and delicious. Not to mention, for the person preparing this dish, they don’t have to worry about hot oil splashing up out of the pot, or the dreaded oily clean up once done because it is air fryer approved!

Here’s Why You’ll Love this Recipe:

Super Simple – it’s easy to make, and only uses ingredients that are usually already on-hand.
Customizable Side Dish – these fries can be as seasoned as you prefer or as loaded as you prefer. Top with feta, red onions, and even tomatoes!
Quick, Healthy and Easy – this recipe is air fryer approved and ready with very minimal effort; just flip at the halfway point then toss!

What Are Greek Fries?

Greek fries, also known as “patates tiganites” in Greek, are a delicious alternative and twist on traditional American fries. It tossed in olive oil and seasoned with a herby and flavourful blend of herbs and spices.

Waxy vs. Starchy Potatoes

Did you know there are actually two types of potatoes? Waxy and starchy!

Waxy potatoes are your red-skinned, blue, purple and fingerling potatoes. They are low in starch, high in moisture and high in sugar. They have a creamier, firmer flesh and a thinner skin than starchy potatoes. They’re great for dishes where the potato stays intact like soups, stews and potato salads.

Starchy potatoes are your Russet, Idaho and Yukon Gold potatoes. They are high in starch and low in moisture. The flesh of a starchier potato breaks down easily, which also allows for greater absorption of milk, cream and butter. This makes them a great pick for mashing, deep-frying and baking.

What is an Air Fryer?

An Air Fryer is a countertop convection oven that essentially mimics the results of deep fried foods, without the need for litres of oil and grease. Air fryers prepare foods with high temperature hot air, little or no oil and a high-powered fan resulting in food that’s super crispy and equally delicious!

How to Use an Air Fryer in 3 Simple Steps

Learning to use a new appliance can be very intimidating, however here are 3 simple steps on how to use an Air Fryer:

Place Food in Basket – depending on your air fryer, you may need to work in batches. Also, you may or may not need to spray your basket or food with a high-smoke point neutral oil to help get your food nice and crispy on the outside.
Set the Temperature & Time – most air fryers have a range of pre-programmed settings from fries to chicken, pizza and cupcakes feel free to use these. Typically, the range of time is from 5 minutes to 25 minutes, and from 325°F to 400°F.
Cook – this process is very hands off, although for some recipes you may be required to flip or turn the food halfway through the cooking process.
Clean Up – this is a very easy step as most air fryer baskets has a non-stick coating that will make for an easy clean-up.

Air Fryer: Best Practices & Tips

Preheat your Air Fryer – not always necessary, however a great step to help prevent foods from overcooking. If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat option; set to the desired temperature and allow it to run for around 3 minutes before placing your food inside.
Don’t use Aerosol Oil Spray Cans – which often times contain additives like propellants and other agents that are said to chip away at air fryer baskets over time. Instead, opt for a oil mister or spray bottle and fill with a neutral oil that has a high smoke point.
Do Not Overcrowd the Basket – to get that golden crispy exterior, air fryers circulate high temperature hot air around the unit in which you want to pass all sides of your food. Work in batches if needed, or opt for a larger air fryer.
Add Water – to the air fryer drawer when cooking fatty foods (like bacon) to prevent smoking.
Shake, Turn, Flip – the food in basket a few times or at the halfway point during cooking to make sure everything is browning and crisping up evenly.

air fryer greek fries with tzatziki and air fryer machine.

Ingredients You’ll Need and Ingredient Notes

* INGREDIENTS, MEASUREMENTS AND INSTRUCTIONS ARE LISTED IN THE RECIPE CARD AT BOTTOM OF PAGE *

Russet Potatoes – also known as Idaho or “Baking Potatoes” these potatoes have a high starch content and low moisture, making them the best pick for crispy fries with a fluffy interior. Alternatively, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes.
Olive Oil – helps to create the beloved crispy exterior on the fries when they are air fried.
Salt – brings out the natural flavours of the potato and enhances the savoury Greek seasoning.

Greek Seasoning

Olive Oil – this is used to add flavour, but also to ensure the herb blend combines and sticks to the fries well.
Fresh Lemon Juice – use juice from a lemon, over the bottled kind as it has a brighter and more vibrant flavour with no preservatives!
Dried Oregano – this is one of the most popular and essential herbs in Greek cooking. It’s slightly peppery with citrusy notes.
Fresh Dill – this herb is quite popular in many yogurt-based dips and recipes. It had a nice fresh and slightly sweet flavour and is a must in this recipe.
Sea Salt or Seasoning Salt – this helps to season the fries and allows the other flavours to pop.

Homemade Tzatziki Sauce

Plain Greek Yogurt – use this kind for the the richest and most authentic flavour. Its thick and creamy, has less moisture than other varieties and has a delicious tangy flavour profile.
Cucumbers – complement the richness of the yogurt and have a refreshing, cooling taste and flavour.
Garlic – adds a pungent and aromatic flavour to the sauce that beautifully ties in well with the other ingredients.
Fresh Lemon Juice – for a pop of fresh citrus flavour.
Olive Oil – helps to bring this sauce together by enhancing the flavour, texture, and overall taste.
Fresh Dill and Parsley – these fresh herbs are a must, and add a vibrant touch to the sauce.
Sea Salt – to help the flavours burst.

seasoned greek fries with feta, lemon slices and tzatziki.

How to Make Greek Fries with Tzatziki

Homemade Tzatziki

Grate Cucumbers – using the large holes on a box grater and gently squeeze the excess liquid out over the sink using a fine cheesecloth, or lint-free paper towel (work in batches if needed), transfer to a bowl.
Add Remaining Ingredients – plain greek yogurt, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, fresh dill, fresh parsley and salt to the bowl, stir until incorporated.
Set Aside – for at least 15 minutes to allow flavours to meld, then serve or allow to chill in refrigerator for later use.

Air Fryer Greek Fries

Prep Potatoes – cut into 1/2-inch thick long pieces (resembling french fries). Soak in cold water for a minimum of 30 minutes to an hour to remove the excess starch and stop the oxidizing process. Drain and pat dry completely.
Preheat the Air Fryer – to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, add dried potatoes and generously coat in olive oil, then sprinkle with sea salt. Spray air fryer basket with olive oil under coated then transfer and arrange the dried potatoes onto the basket in a single layer (do not overlap or crowd)
Cook – place basket into air fryer, and cook for 15-20 minutes or until desired crispiness is achieved, flipping at the halfway point. When done, transfer fries to a large bowl season with herb blend and lemon juice, toss then serve immediately.

russet potato fries being soaked in water.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Seasonings – swap and switch up the seasonings to change the flavour profile with cumin, paprika, smoked paprika etc.
Cheese Topping – crumbled feta is a classic or grated parmesan cheese is delicious on these fries.
Lemon – try adding the zest of the lemon for an added citrusy kick.
Spicy Fries – add a dash of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or chili powder to the greek seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
Greek Fries Poutine – a delicious twist to regular poutine by adding crumbled feta, dollops of tzatziki, fresh herbs and your choice of gravy, optional).

Recipe Notes and Tips for the Perfect Crispy Air Fryer Fries

Use Russet Potatoes – these are the best potatoes to use for classic french fry texture and taste! Due to their high starch content, they are more dense and the least amount of moisture which aids in helping them crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. Be sure to leave the skin on, and scrub well to remove any dirt.
Soak Fries – it is recommended to soak fries for a minimum of 30 minutes to overnight which removes excess potato starch, a d prevents fries from sticking together which helps achieve the maximum crispness we all desire! Tip – change the water after 30 minutes replacing with fresh cold water.
Pat Dry Fries – pat your potato sticks dry of any water so the olive oil can properly coat each stick can stick which helps crisp them up without getting soggy during the cooking process.
Arrange in a Single Layer – to get that golden crispy exterior, air fryers circulate high temperature hot air around the unit in which you want to pass all sides of your food. Work in batches if needed, or opt for a larger air fryer.

greek fries with tzatziki and lemon slices in tray.

Serving Suggestions and Tips

Homemade Tzatziki – this is a classic pairing made with the perfect mix of plain greek yogurt, cucumber, olive oil and fresh herbs.
Try this Greek Salad served with a light and refreshing Red Wine Vinaigrette for the perfect way to lighten up this side.
Serve as a side dish to this Marinated Greek Style Chicken for the perfect, mouth-watering food combo.
Transport yourself to the Greek islands by making this Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki & Homemade Pita

Can I Make this Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can make air fryer fries ahead of time by prepping the russet potatoes from the day ahead and leaving to soak overnight (maximum starch will be removed). You can also prep and store the ingredients and combine on the day of.

Storage Instructions

Ensure the fries have completely cooled then transfer to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag and store in refrigerator for 1 to 2 days.

Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to 1 to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions for Crispy Air Fryer Fries

Greek Fries are best served immediately while hot and crispy. However in the rare case that you have leftovers place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, then place in a preheated fryer on 350°F (176°C) until heated through and desired crispiness is achieved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I make crispy fries?

Choose the right potatoes (Russet is usually preferred), cut them evenly, soak and rinse the potatoes to remove excess starch. It’s recommended you cook them in a preheat oven or air-fryer, use high heat, arrange them in a single-layer, flip them at the half-way mark and ensure you drain excess oil (if needed).

Can I use regular potatoes for homemade fries?

Use Russet potatoes also known as Idaho or “Baking Potatoes” these potatoes for the best homemade fries. They have a high starch content and low moisture, making them the best pick for crispy fries with a fluffy interior.

How do I prevent fries from getting soggy?

After frying fries, avoid steam trapping by covering the fries with a lid or aluminium foil and ensure to serve them immediately to maintain the crisp exterior.

Can I use frozen fries?

You absolutely can!

Should I parboil the potatoes before frying them?

It’s an added step but not necessary. You can achieve similar or better results by soaking the potatoes first. I would do either or.