Nothing beats the fresh, vibrant flavors of an authentic Greek potato salad on a warm summer evening. This traditional Mediterranean dish brings together tender potatoes, tangy lemon dressing, and aromatic herbs that transport you straight to the Greek islands with every bite.
Unlike heavy mayonnaise-based potato salads, this Greek potato salad celebrates simplicity and fresh ingredients. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and Mediterranean herbs creates a light yet satisfying side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, fresh seafood, or enjoyed on its own as a healthy lunch option.
Why This Traditional Greek Potato Salad Recipe Stands Out
This Greek potato salad recipe captures the essence of authentic Mediterranean cooking with ingredients that have been used in Greek kitchens for generations. The secret lies in using high-quality olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and allowing the flavors to meld together, creating a dish that's both refreshing and deeply satisfying.
What sets this Greek potato salad apart from other potato dishes is its perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors. The absence of mayonnaise allows the natural taste of each ingredient to shine through, while the olive oil dressing provides richness without heaviness. This recipe has been passed down through Greek families and represents the true spirit of Mediterranean cuisine ; simple, fresh, and incredibly delicious.
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Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Small waxy potatoes (Yukon Gold or red)
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh dill, chopped
Seasonings and Herbs
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper
- Garlic, minced (optional)
Optional Additions
- Red wine vinegar
- Cucumber, diced
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Preparing the Potatoes
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly, leaving the skin on for extra texture and nutrition.
- Cut larger potatoes into bite-sized chunks, keeping smaller ones whole.
- Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water by about 2 inches.
- Bring water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a steady simmer.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender but not mushy.
Creating the Mediterranean Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar.
- Add minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Whisk until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified.
- Set aside to allow flavors to develop while potatoes cool.
Assembling Your Greek Potato Salad
- Drain the cooked potatoes and let them cool for 10-15 minutes.
- Transfer warm potatoes to a large serving bowl.
- Pour half of the dressing over the warm potatoes and gently toss.
- Add sliced red onions, Kalamata olives, and fresh herbs.
- Gently fold in crumbled feta cheese, being careful not to break it up too much.
- Drizzle remaining dressing and toss one final time.
Expert Cooking Tips
The key to perfect Greek potato salad lies in timing and technique. Here are professional tips to ensure your dish turns out restaurant-quality every time:
Potato Selection and Preparation:
- Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes as they hold their shape better than russet potatoes
- Start potatoes in cold water to ensure even cooking throughout
- Salt the cooking water generously ; this seasons the potatoes from the inside out
- Test doneness with a fork; potatoes should pierce easily but not fall apart
Dressing and Flavor Development:
- Dress the potatoes while they're still slightly warm to help them absorb the flavors
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste
- Fresh lemon juice is crucial; bottled juice won't provide the same bright flavor
- Let the Greek potato salad rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
This versatile Greek potato salad can be adapted to suit different dietary needs and preferences while maintaining its authentic Mediterranean character.
Dairy-Free Version: Replace feta cheese with dairy-free alternatives or simply omit it entirely. The salad will still be delicious with extra olives and fresh herbs. You can also add roasted red peppers for additional flavor and color.
Vegan Adaptation:
- Substitute feta with crumbled tofu marinated in lemon juice and herbs
- Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
- Include roasted chickpeas for extra protein and texture
Low-Carb Option:
- Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version
- Steam cauliflower until tender but still firm
- The Greek potato salad dressing works perfectly with this substitution
Additional Vegetables:
- Diced cucumber adds refreshing crunch
- Cherry tomatoes provide sweetness and color
- Bell peppers contribute Mediterranean authenticity
- Capers can replace or complement the olives
Equipment Recommendations
Creating the perfect Greek potato salad requires minimal equipment, but having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Equipment:
- Large pot for boiling potatoes
- Colander for draining
- Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
- Cutting board
- Large mixing bowl
- Small whisk for dressing
- Measuring cups and spoons
Recommended Additions:
- Potato masher (for slightly mashing some potatoes if desired)
- Salad servers for gentle tossing
- Airtight container for storage
The beauty of this Greek potato salad lies in its simplicity ; you likely already have all the necessary equipment in your kitchen.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Proper storage ensures your Greek potato salad maintains its fresh flavor and texture for several days.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the prepared salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day as the ingredients meld together. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Cook potatoes up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator
- Prepare the dressing separately and combine just before serving
- Add delicate ingredients like herbs and feta just before serving to maintain their texture
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve at room temperature for optimal flavor
- Refresh with a squeeze of lemon juice before serving leftovers
- This Greek potato salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a mezze platter
Secret Mediterranean Flavor Boosters
The secret to making a truly extraordinary Greek potato salad comes down to two deceptively simple techniques that many home cooks often overlook. These small steps might seem minor at first glance, but they are what transform a good salad into one that feels authentically Mediterranean and unforgettable.
The first key is to always dress the potatoes while they are still slightly warm. Warm potatoes act almost like little sponges, soaking up the olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings deep into their flesh rather than just letting the dressing sit on the surface. This ensures that every bite is infused with that bright, tangy richness instead of tasting bland in the middle.
The second technique is patience: let the salad rest at room temperature for at least 45 minutes before serving. This resting time gives the flavors space to mingle and develop. The sharpness of the red onion softens, the fresh herbs begin to release their aromatic oils, and the lemony dressing ties everything together. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that feels balanced, mellow, and deeply satisfying — the kind of dish you might expect to be served in a cozy Greek taverna overlooking the Aegean Sea.
FAQ
How to make Greek potato salad?
Start by boiling waxy potatoes until tender, then dress them warm with olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and Mediterranean ingredients like feta and olives. This Greek potato salad is best when allowed to rest and develop flavors before serving.
What are the ingredients in a traditional Greek salad?
While traditional Greek salad contains tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta, Greek potato salad incorporates similar Mediterranean flavors with potatoes as the base, plus olive oil, lemon, herbs, and feta cheese.
What are the Greek spices for potatoes?
Classic Greek seasonings for potatoes include oregano, fresh dill, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, and high-quality olive oil. These create the authentic Mediterranean flavor profile in Greek potato salad.
What is Mediterranean potato salad?
Mediterranean potato salad refers to potato dishes from the region featuring olive oil-based dressings, fresh herbs, and local ingredients. Greek potato salad is one popular version featuring feta, olives, and lemon.
Perfect Pairings and Final Thoughts
This authentic Greek potato salad brings the sunshine of the Mediterranean to your table with every forkful. The combination of tender potatoes, tangy feta, and bright lemon dressing creates a dish that's both comforting and refreshing, perfect for any season or occasion.
Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a healthy side dish to accompany your weeknight dinner, this Greek potato salad delivers authentic flavors that will transport you to the Greek islands. Don't forget to try our Potato Cheese Pancakes Recipe for a hearty breakfast option, or our Sweet Potato Hash Browns Recipe for another delicious potato dish that'll complement your Mediterranean meal perfectly.
Adams - "Life's too short for boring potato salad ; go Greek and make it memorable!"
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this Greek potato salad recipe:
Greek Potato Salad (No Mayo)
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Colander
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Sharp knife
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs small waxy potatoes Yukon Gold or red
- 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 large red onion thinly sliced
- 0.5 cup Kalamata olives pitted and halved
- 0.5 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 0.25 cup fresh dill chopped
Seasonings and Herbs
- 2 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic minced (optional)
Optional Additions
- 2 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 cucumber diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
Instructions
- Fold in feta, add remaining dressing, and let rest 30–45 minutes before serving.
- Make Dressing – Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Toss Potatoes – Add warm potatoes to a bowl, pour half the dressing, and gently toss.
- Add Veggies – Mix in onion, olives, parsley, dill, and optional extras.
- Finish – Fold in feta, add remaining dressing, and let rest 30–45 minutes before serving.
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