Mediterranean Potato Salad

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Recipes

Whenever I make Mediterranean Potato Salad, it feels like a little slice of sunshine on my plate. I love how the colorful ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both vibrant and delicious. The combination of tender potatoes, fresh herbs, and tangy feta cheese makes for a delightful experience. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare, which allows me to focus on enjoying the flavors and sharing it with friends and family. This salad has become a staple in my kitchen, and I can't wait for you to try it too!

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T20:54:27.491Z

Preparing Mediterranean Potato Salad has been a delightful venture for me, especially when exploring various flavor profiles. I often experiment with different herbs like dill and parsley, which really elevate the dish. Recently, I added a squeeze of lemon juice and was blown away by how it brightened the entire salad. It’s these small tweaks that make cooking so gratifying.

This salad has been a go-to for gatherings, thanks to its vibrant colors and fresh Mediterranean flavors. I remember hosting a barbecue and serving this alongside grilled chicken; it was a hit! I encourage you to let the salad chill for a bit—it melds the flavors beautifully and enhances the experience for everyone enjoying it.

Why You'll Love This Mediterranean Potato Salad

  • Vibrant flavors that transport you to the Mediterranean coast
  • A perfect balance of creamy potatoes and tangy feta cheese
  • Fresh herbs bring a burst of brightness to every bite

Cooking the Potatoes

The foundation of any great potato salad is perfectly cooked potatoes. For this Mediterranean variant, I recommend using baby potatoes for their delicate texture and sweetness. When boiling, keep an eye on them; you want them fork-tender but not falling apart. A gentle simmer for 15-20 minutes usually does the trick. After draining, let them cool slightly before cutting, as this prevents them from becoming mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.

While preparing the potatoes, consider adding herbs to the boiling water. A couple of sprigs of rosemary or thyme can infuse a subtle flavor that enhances the overall salad. Moreover, ensure you cool the potatoes completely before mixing in the salad, as this helps maintain their shape and texture.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize this Mediterranean Potato Salad by incorporating seasonal vegetables. For instance, adding bell peppers for crunch or artichoke hearts for extra zest can elevate the flavor profile. Even roasted veggies can work well; just toss in some roasted zucchini or eggplant for a smoky note.

If you're looking for a change in protein, consider tossing in some grilled chicken or chickpeas for added substance and satisfaction. These additions create a heartier meal, perfect for lunch or a picnic, transforming the dish into a full-fledged entrée.

Making It Ahead

One of the best things about this dish is its make-ahead potential. Prepare the salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen and meld together beautifully overnight, making for an even tastier dish when it’s time to serve. Just be sure to give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

When storing, choose an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you're concerned about the potatoes becoming too soft, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving. This way, you can retain the potato's texture while still enjoying that vibrant flavor punch.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful Mediterranean Potato Salad:

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Mediterranean Potato Salad:

Cook the Potatoes

Place the baby potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until combined.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley.

Add Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy your Mediterranean Potato Salad!

Pro Tips

  • For an extra layer of flavor, try adding roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts. You can also substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese for a creamier texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean Potato Salad is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. I love serving it alongside grilled meats, like lemon-herb chicken or lamb skewers, as the fresh flavors complement the richness of the meats perfectly. It also works beautifully as a side for seafood, offering a refreshing contrast.

For a casual picnic or barbecue, consider serving individual portions in mason jars, which not only makes it easy to transport but adds a bit of charm to your gathering. A sprinkle of extra parsley on top can make each jar pop visually.

Ingredient Insights

The star of this salad, the Kalamata olives, add a briny depth that balances the creaminess of the feta cheese. If you’re not a fan of olives or need an alternative, capers can provide a similar punch of flavor with their tangy profile. Just be sure to chop them finely so they distribute well throughout the salad.

Feta cheese brings a delightful saltiness that enhances the overall taste profile. If you prefer a dairy-free version, try using crumbled tofu mixed with lemon juice and nutritional yeast to achieve a similar creamy texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long can I store Mediterranean Potato Salad?

You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Mediterranean Potato Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a mezze platter.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, Mediterranean Potato Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Mediterranean Potato Salad

Whenever I make Mediterranean Potato Salad, it feels like a little slice of sunshine on my plate. I love how the colorful ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both vibrant and delicious. The combination of tender potatoes, fresh herbs, and tangy feta cheese makes for a delightful experience. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare, which allows me to focus on enjoying the flavors and sharing it with friends and family. This salad has become a staple in my kitchen, and I can't wait for you to try it too!

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Clean Eating Recipes

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
  2. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  3. 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  4. 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
  5. 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  6. 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  7. 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  8. 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  9. 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  10. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  11. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Place the baby potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

Step 02

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until combined.

Step 03

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley.

Step 04

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 05

Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy your Mediterranean Potato Salad!

Extra Tips

  1. For an extra layer of flavor, try adding roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts. You can also substitute the feta cheese with goat cheese for a creamier texture.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 6g