Amazing Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe

If you love the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, you’re in for a real treat with this Amazing Mediterranean Potato Salad. It’s a delightful combination of tender potatoes, briny olives, tangy feta, and fresh herbs all brought together by a zesty, garlicky dressing that sings with lemon and olive oil. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, this salad bursts with color, texture, and bold flavors that truly capture the essence of a sunny coastal kitchen. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing side to your favorite grilled dishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Amazing Mediterranean Potato Salad is in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role. From the creamy potatoes and salty olives to the fragrant herbs and tangy dressing, every element adds layers of flavor and texture that make each bite a joy.

• 2 pounds small new potatoes: Choose Yukon Gold or red bliss for their creamy texture and thin skins that hold up beautifully after boiling.
• 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved: These provide a deep, fruity saltiness that’s signature to Mediterranean dishes.
• 1/4 cup pitted green olives, halved: Their bright, slightly tart flavor balances the Kalamata olives perfectly.
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy richness that melts just enough into the warm potatoes.
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley: Fresh parsley brings a burst of color and a mild, fresh bite.
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill: Dill adds a subtle herbal note that complements the salad’s brightness.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: This luxurious oil forms the base of the dressing, adding a silky mouthfeel and fruity aroma.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: The lemon juice provides that essential tang and helps brighten the entire salad.
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Adds a subtle sharpness that balances the richness of the oil and feta.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing a mild kick and helps emulsify the flavors.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dressing with a subtle pungency that elevates the salad.
• Salt to taste: Essential for bringing out and balancing the flavors.
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the dish.

How to Make Amazing Mediterranean Potato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing your potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt since new potatoes have thin skins. Cut larger ones into halves or quarters, so all pieces are roughly the same size. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture throughout.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water, adding a generous pinch of salt to season them as they cook. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat to let the potatoes simmer gently for about 15 to 20 minutes or until fork-tender. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect tenderness that won’t turn mushy later on.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

While the potatoes cool slightly, whisk together your dressing ingredients in a small bowl. Combine extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This dressing is what brings all the elements of the salad together with a vibrant, bright flavor.

Step 4: Toss the Salad

In a large bowl, gently mix the warm potatoes with halved Kalamata and green olives, crumbled feta, fresh parsley, and dill. Pour the dressing over everything and toss carefully to coat the potatoes evenly without breaking them up. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor and the fresh herbs remain vibrant.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

You can serve this salad right away while still slightly warm for a comforting dish or refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld beautifully, making the salad even more delicious the next day.

How to Serve Amazing Mediterranean Potato Salad

Garnishes

To make your salad even more stunning, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill on top before serving. A few whole Kalamata olives and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil add elegance and a tempting aroma. For a pop of color, thin slices of red onion or a handful of cherry tomatoes work wonders.

Side Dishes

This amazing side complements a variety of mains perfectly. Think grilled chicken or lamb skewers, crispy fish, or even a hearty vegetable platter. It’s also fantastic beside a fresh Greek salad if you want to go all in on those Mediterranean flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve the potato salad in individual cups lined with romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a pretty, hand-held option. Alternatively, pile it high on a rustic wooden board alongside warm pita, hummus, and roasted veggies for a gorgeous Mediterranean-inspired spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This salad stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers even tastier. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Freezing

While freezing is not recommended for this salad—since potatoes and fresh herbs lose their texture and brightness—it’s best to enjoy it fresh or within a few days of making it.

Reheating

If you prefer to serve your Amazing Mediterranean Potato Salad warm, gently reheat portions in the microwave or on the stove just until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy and the fresh herbs from wilting.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this salad?

Absolutely! While new potatoes like Yukon Gold or red bliss are ideal for their texture and flavor, baby red or fingerling potatoes also work wonderfully. Just make sure to cook them until tender but not falling apart.

How can I make this salad vegan?

Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. The flavor will still be fantastic thanks to the olives, herbs, and zesty dressing.

Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?

No need to peel! The thin skins of new potatoes add texture and nutrients, plus they hold together well in the salad. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly.

Can I prepare this salad the day before a gathering?

Yes! In fact, making it a few hours or a day ahead allows the flavors to meld even better, making your Amazing Mediterranean Potato Salad taste even more spectacular.

What can I do to make the salad more filling?

To bulk it up, toss in some cooked chickpeas or add a handful of toasted pine nuts for crunch. Either addition adds protein and extra texture that’s delicious.

Final Thoughts

Once you make this Amazing Mediterranean Potato Salad, I’m certain it will become a favorite in your recipe rotation. It’s fresh, vibrant, and irresistibly delicious, effortlessly capturing those sunny Mediterranean vibes with every bite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite herbs or olives to make it truly your own—either way, you’re in for a fantastic treat. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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