If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and utterly satisfying, this Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. It perfectly balances tender baby potatoes with bright cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, crisp cucumber, and creamy feta, all tossed in a tangy, herb-infused dressing. Each bite bursts with Mediterranean sunshine, offering a colorful and delicious salad that works wonders as a side dish or a light meal. Whether you’re preparing for a picnic, a family dinner, or just want a healthy salad packed with flavor, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe truly shine, you just need simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Each element brings a unique taste, texture, or color, creating a harmonious, mouthwatering dish.
- 2 pounds baby potatoes: Small and tender, they cook quickly and hold their shape perfectly.
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and a fruity depth that ties everything together.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Provides a subtle tang that brightens the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Fresh citrus zestiness that lifts the entire salad.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds just a touch of sharpness for complexity in the dressing.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Infuses the salad with a mild, savory kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Delivers subtle heat and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Mediterranean herb that evokes the region’s essence.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy and sweet bursts of color to brighten the dish.
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced: Salty and tangy, adding a savory punch.
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced: Crisp and refreshing, giving a delightful crunch.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Adds a bit of sharpness and texture contrast.
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy, salty, and tangy – the perfect finishing touch.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brightens up the salad with a fresh, herbaceous note.
How to Make Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Start by placing your baby potatoes in a large pot, cover them generously with cold water, and sprinkle in a pinch of salt. Bring everything to a boil and let the potatoes cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. This ensures the potatoes are soft but won’t fall apart when tossed with the dressing later.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the potatoes are cooking, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano in a small bowl. This blend provides the perfect balance of tang, spice, and herbaceous flavor that sets the foundation for your salad.
Step 3: Combine Potatoes and Dressing
Once your potatoes are cooked, drain them and allow to cool just enough to handle. Place them in a large bowl while still warm, and pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently to coat every piece in that luscious vinaigrette, allowing the potatoes to soak up all the flavors.
Step 4: Add the Fresh Ingredients
Next up, fold in the juicy cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, crisp cucumber, finely chopped red onion, tangy feta cheese, and fresh chopped parsley. Give everything a gentle toss to mix, preserving the fresh textures and vibrant colors that make this salad so irresistible.
How to Serve Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of freshness, sprinkle a little more chopped parsley or even some freshly cracked black pepper right before serving. A drizzle of additional olive oil can also elevate the salad’s silkiness and enhance its Mediterranean vibe.
Side Dishes
This Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or even a hearty veggie burger. It also makes a fantastic accompaniment to a light mezze platter or alongside warm pita bread and hummus for a complete Mediterranean feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad in a hollowed-out loaf of crusty bread or on a bed of mixed greens. You can also use small individual glass jars for picnics or potlucks — not only does it look charming, but it’s practical for portion control and easy transport.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to three days. Keep it covered in an airtight container to preserve freshness. The flavors tend to meld even more, making leftovers just as delicious as the first serving.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and feta, freezing this recipe is not recommended. The cucumbers and tomatoes will become watery and lose their texture, which can affect the overall enjoyment of the dish.
Reheating
If you prefer your Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe warm, simply give it a gentle toss at room temperature or warm it briefly in the microwave. Avoid overheating as this might soften the fresh veggies and cheese too much.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cut larger potatoes into evenly sized chunks so they cook evenly and hold together well in the salad.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
The original version includes feta cheese, but you can easily make it vegan by omitting the cheese or swapping it with a plant-based alternative.
How long can I keep the salad in the fridge?
It’s best enjoyed within three days for optimal freshness and flavor. Beyond that, the texture of the vegetables might start to degrade.
Can I add protein to make it a complete meal?
Definitely! Adding chickpeas or grilled chicken can turn this salad into a satisfying main dish packed with protein.
What type of olives work best in this recipe?
Kalamata olives are the classic choice here because of their rich, briny flavor, but feel free to experiment with green olives or Castelvetrano for different nuances.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm Mediterranean breeze with every bite. It’s fresh, colorful, and infinitely versatile, making it the perfect companion for so many meals or occasions. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with your loved ones — it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection, just as it has in mine.
