Amazing Mediterranean Potato Salad: 2 Flavors to Adore Recipe

If you’re craving a salad that brings a burst of sunshine and vibrant flavors to your table, you’re going to fall head over heels for the Amazing Mediterranean Potato Salad: 2 Flavors to Adore. This dish isn’t your standard potato salad—it’s a beautiful blend of tender new potatoes mingling with salty Kalamata and green olives, crumbly feta, and fragrant herbs, all dressed in a zesty, tangy vinaigrette. Each bite is a delightful dance of textures and tastes, perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or anytime you want to add a Mediterranean twist to your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple yet essential, the ingredients in this recipe work together to create a salad that’s fresh, flavorful, and colorful. Each component has a unique role—from the creamy potatoes that provide a hearty base, to the briny olives adding depth, the creamy feta for richness, and the herbs that brighten up every bite.

• 2 pounds small new potatoes (Yukon Gold or red bliss): Their waxy texture holds up beautifully when boiled and chopped, giving a creamy mouthfeel without falling apart.
• 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved: These olives add a rich, fruity sharpness that elevates the salad’s taste profile.
• 1/4 cup pitted green olives, halved: Offering a slightly different briny punch, they create a dynamic olive flavor contrast.
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: The salty creaminess of feta perfectly balances the tangy dressing and olives.
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley: Provides a fresh, herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness.
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill: Adds a subtle, aromatic note that feels quintessentially Mediterranean.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil: A fruity, smooth base for the dressing that brings everything together.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Gives a zesty punch and fresh acidity that livens the dish.
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Enhances the tangy complexity of the dressing.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle heat and helps emulsify the dressing for a perfect coat.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Provides a subtle kick and savory depth without overpowering.
• Salt to taste: Essential for balancing and highlighting all flavors.
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste: Adds a mild spiciness that rounds out the salad.

How to Make Amazing Mediterranean Potato Salad: 2 Flavors to Adore

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start with washing your new potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut the larger potatoes into halves or quarters so everything is roughly the same size, ensuring even cooking. Placing them in a large pot with cold water and a generous pinch of salt sets the stage for perfectly seasoned potatoes.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the potatoes cook until they are tender when pierced with a fork, which usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. This step is crucial because overcooking can make them mushy, while undercooking leaves them too firm.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

While the potatoes cool, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This zesty vinaigrette is the heart of the salad, bringing all the flavors together in a bright and balanced way.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, gently toss the cooled potatoes with Kalamata and green olives, crumbled feta, finely chopped parsley, and dill. Pour the dressing over the mixture and carefully toss again to coat everything without breaking the potatoes apart. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed for that perfect bite.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

The salad tastes fantastic right away, but chilling it for at least 30 minutes allows those Amazing Mediterranean Potato Salad: 2 Flavors to Adore to truly come alive as the flavors meld beautifully together.

How to Serve Amazing Mediterranean Potato Salad: 2 Flavors to Adore

Garnishes

Elevate your presentation with a few extra sprigs of fresh dill or parsley on top. A sprinkle of feta or a few whole Kalamata olives adds a gorgeous finishing touch and signals the delicious flavor inside.

Side Dishes

This Mediterranean potato salad pairs wonderfully with grilled fish, roasted chicken, or even a simple fresh green salad. It’s also a star at backyard barbecues and potlucks, providing a fresh and tangy counterpoint to heavier, smoky dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this salad in hollowed-out tomatoes or mini bell peppers for a fun appetizer. Alternatively, layer it in clear glass jars for a grab-and-go picnic option that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad stays fresh for up to 3 days, with the flavors continuing to deepen—sometimes even getting better the next day!

Freezing

Because of the fresh herbs and olives, freezing this salad is not recommended as it may affect the texture and flavor of the potatoes and cheese.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it slightly warm, allow it to come to room temperature before serving; avoid microwaving to preserve the integrity of the ingredients.

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of new potatoes?

While regular russet potatoes can be used, new potatoes are preferred due to their waxy texture, which holds up better and provides a creamier bite in this salad.

What can I substitute for Kalamata olives?

If you don’t have Kalamata olives on hand, you can use other briny olives like Castelvetrano or even black olives, but keep in mind the flavor will be milder and less complex.

Is this salad vegan-friendly?

The traditional recipe includes feta cheese, which is not vegan. However, you can easily swap in a plant-based feta or omit the cheese altogether for a vegan version.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! This salad is even better when made a few hours in advance, giving the dressing time to infuse the potatoes and olives with flavor.

How do I make the salad less tangy?

Simply reduce the amount of lemon juice and red wine vinegar in the dressing to suit your palate, and balance it with a touch more olive oil for smoothness.

Final Thoughts

Giving this Amazing Mediterranean Potato Salad: 2 Flavors to Adore a try is like taking your taste buds on a sunny trip to the Mediterranean coast. It’s fresh, full of vibrant flavors, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a stunning side dish or a delightfully light main during warm-weather meals, this salad will quickly become one of your favorite go-tos. So go ahead, grab those potatoes, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat!

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