Name: Olive Greek Potato Salad: Fresh Flavor for Any Occasion
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Petite White or Red Potatoes (Waxy potatoes provide structure and creaminess.); 1 tablespoon Kosher Salt (For boiling water.); 1 cup Pitted Kalamata Olives (Adds a briny flavor.); 1 small Red Onion (Thinly sliced for best texture.); 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Brings sweetness and chew.); 2 tablespoons Capers (Reserve brine for dressing.); 1/4 cup Fresh Dill (Adds freshness.); 1/2 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (Base vinaigrette.); 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar (Provides acidity.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced for flavor.); 1 teaspoon Dry Mustard (Helps emulsify dressing.); 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme (Enhances flavor.); 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (Enhances flavor.); 1 cup Feta Cheese (Add just before serving.)

As I rummaged through my pantry, a bright jar of Kalamata olives caught my eye, instantly transporting me to a sun-drenched Greek island. That’s how this Mediterranean Greek Potato Salad was born—a delightful mix of tender potatoes, tangy feta, and the briny goodness of olives that promises to elevate any meal. This dish is not only a vibrant crowd-pleaser, perfect for summer barbecues, but also a fantastic make-ahead option that improves in flavor after a day in the fridge. With wholesome ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe caters to your comfort food cravings while staying vegetarian. Are you ready to take your taste buds on a culinary journey that’s both refreshing and satisfying?

Why is This Greek Potato Salad Special?

Vibrant flavors: The combination of Kalamata olives, feta, and fresh herbs creates a colorful dish that excites your palate.

Make-ahead magic: Prepare this salad up to two days in advance for a quick side that tastes even better after chilling.

Versatile pairing: Delightful as a side for grilled chicken souvlaki or lamb kebabs, it complements almost any meal.

Easy to customize: Feel free to swap out ingredients—adding diced cucumbers or fresh parsley offers a personal touch!

Hearty yet refreshing: Packed with hearty potatoes and tangy ingredients, it’s a satisfying dish perfect for warm weather dining.

Embrace this Greek Potato Salad with Feta & Olives, and explore more delicious sides like Fresh Cucumber Caprese Salad for a complete meal!

Olive Greek Potato Salad Ingredients

Elevate your meal with these wonderful ingredients!

For the Salad
• Petite White or Red Potatoes – These waxy potatoes provide the perfect structure and creaminess for your salad.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning your boiling water, enhancing the potatoes’ natural flavor.
• Pitted Kalamata Olives – Adds a briny, savory element that truly shines in this Olive Greek Potato Salad.
• Red Onion – Offers a slight bite and beautiful color; thinly sliced for the best texture.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Brings a hint of sweetness and a chewy texture to complement the dish.
• Capers – Delivers a sharp, tangy punch; reserve brine for added flavor boost in the dressing.
• Fresh Dill – Adds a burst of fresh herby flavor that brightens up the salad.

For the Dressing
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – The rich base of your vinaigrette ensures a smooth, delightful blend of flavors.
• Red Wine Vinegar – Provides necessary acidity, balancing the overall richness of the salad.
• Garlic – Infuses the dressing with aromatic depth for an irresistible flavor profile.
• Dry Mustard – Aids in emulsifying the dressing while adding a subtle tang.
• Dried Thyme & Oregano – Earthy herbs that enhance the Mediterranean theme—perfect for this salad!

For the Topping
• Feta Cheese – Offers a creamy texture and salty kick, adding a finishing touch to your Olive Greek Potato Salad; add right before serving for the best results.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Olive Greek Potato Salad

Step 1: Boil Potatoes
Begin by placing petite white or red potatoes in a large pot, ensuring they are completely covered with cold water. Add a generous amount of kosher salt and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes for about 15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and easily pierced with a knife. Drain them in a colander and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare Dressing
While the potatoes are boiling, grab a jar with a tight-fitting lid for your dressing. Combine extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dry mustard, dried thyme, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until the dressing is well emulsified and smooth. This delightful vinaigrette will bring the Olive Greek Potato Salad to life!

Step 3: Cool and Cut Potatoes
Once your boiled potatoes are cool enough to handle, chop them into bite-sized pieces while they are still warm. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl and drizzle the reserved caper brine over the top. This step allows the potatoes to absorb flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your Olive Greek Potato Salad. Gently toss to coat before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Assemble Salad
Add the kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, thinly sliced red onion, and fresh dill to the bowl with the potatoes. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss everything together gently using a spatula or your hands. Ensure each ingredient is evenly distributed, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in your Olive Greek Potato Salad.

Step 5: Add Feta
Just before serving, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of your salad. This gives your dish a creamy, salty finish that pairs perfectly with the vibrant flavors of the salad. Be cautious while mixing, as you want to keep the feta intact for that delightful burst of flavor with each bite!

Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Let the Olive Greek Potato Salad rest for at least one hour in the refrigerator before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and blend together beautifully. If you prepare it a day in advance, it will taste even better, making it an excellent make-ahead dish for your next gathering!

Olive Greek Potato Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore and customize this delightful Olive Greek Potato Salad to match your taste and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute feta with crumbled tofu or dairy-free cheese for a creamy touch without the dairy.
Veggie-Packed: Add diced cucumbers or cherry tomatoes for a delightful crunch and extra freshness. Your salad will come alive with these vibrant colors!
Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to heat things up. This twist will wake up your taste buds!
Herb Roulette: Swap dill for fresh basil or oregano, introducing a fun twist in flavor. It brings a whole new Mediterranean vibe to the dish.
Creamy Twist: Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt into the dressing for creamy richness while keeping it light. It’s a guilt-free delight!
Grainy Goodness: Incorporate cooked quinoa for added protein and a hearty texture. This makes the salad even more filling and wholesome!
Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy finish that elevates the flavors beautifully.
Flavor Boost: Experiment with other olives like Castelvetrano or green olives to change the briny flavor profile. It’s a taste adventure that’s worth trying!

By mixing and matching these variations, you can create a personalized version of this Olive Greek Potato Salad that suits your family’s cravings! And if you’re seeking more delicious sides, don’t forget to check out Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad or Crispy Mashed Potato Fries for delightful additions!

Expert Tips for Olive Greek Potato Salad

Boiling Basics: Start with cold water and add salt to ensure even cooking and better flavor in your potatoes.
Perfect Potatoes: Keep an eye on the cooking time; the potatoes should be fork-tender but not mushy to achieve the best texture in your Olive Greek Potato Salad.
Cooling is Key: Allow the potatoes to cool before dressing them to prevent any unwanted mushiness; this step makes a big difference!
Taste as You Go: Always taste your dressing and salad mixture before serving, adjusting seasoning to your preference, as feta and olives vary in saltiness.
Flavorful Resting: Allow the salad to sit for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing your Olive Greek Potato Salad experience!

How to Store and Freeze Olive Greek Potato Salad

Fridge: Store your Olive Greek Potato Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps retain freshness and flavor and allows the ingredients to meld beautifully.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the salad up to 2 days in advance. Just remember to add the feta cheese just before serving to maintain its texture and creaminess.

Freezer: For best results, it’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the texture of the potatoes and fresh ingredients, which may not hold up well after thawing.

Reheating: If you plan to serve leftovers, simply give the salad a good toss to refresh any flavors before enjoying it again—no reheating required!

What to Serve with Mediterranean Greek Potato Salad with Feta & Olives

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delightful Greek potato salad with complementary dishes that bring out its vibrant flavors.

Grilled Chicken Souvlaki: The marinated chicken adds a smoky depth that beautifully contrasts the salad’s refreshing herb notes.
Lamb Kebabs: Juicy and flavorful, these tender skewers perfectly complement the Mediterranean theme of your salad.
Hummus and Pita Bread: The creamy texture of hummus enriches your meal, providing an enjoyable dip alongside your flavorful salad.
Tzatziki Sauce: This cool, yogurt-based dip adds a refreshing creaminess that pairs harmoniously with the tangy ingredients of the salad.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zesty peppers, zucchini, and eggplant provide a satisfying array of hearty flavors and textures, making every bite enjoyable.
Refreshing Sparkling Water: A light, fizzy drink enhances the experience by cleansing your palate and enhancing the dish’s bright notes.
Lemon Tart: Serve as a light dessert to round off the meal—its sweet and tangy flavor complements the Mediterranean theme perfectly.
Cucumber Feta Salad: This fresh side reinforces the Greek influence and adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy potato salad.

Make Ahead Options

These Olive Greek Potato Salad preparations make life easier for busy home cooks! You can fully assemble the salad up to 24 hours in advance by cooking and cooling the potatoes, mixing the dressing, and combining all salad ingredients—except for the feta, which should be added just before serving to maintain its creamy texture. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is just as delicious the next day. To keep everything fresh and flavorful, refrigerate the salad in an airtight container. Just remember to stir gently before serving to revive those vibrant flavors. With this method, you’ll enjoy a delightful Mediterranean side without the last-minute rush!

Olive Greek Potato Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best potatoes for this salad?
Absolutely! For the best Olive Greek Potato Salad, you’ll want to select petite white or red potatoes. These waxy varieties maintain their structure well after boiling, ensuring your salad has the right creamy texture. Avoid starchy potatoes like russets, as they can become mushy and compromise the salad.

How should I store my Olive Greek Potato Salad?
To keep your Olive Greek Potato Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to cover it properly to prevent any odors from your fridge affecting the salad’s vibrant flavors. When you’re ready to serve, just give it a gentle toss to refresh everything!

Can I freeze Olive Greek Potato Salad?
Very! While it’s technically possible to freeze the Olive Greek Potato Salad, I don’t recommend it due to texture changes. The potatoes and fresh ingredients may not hold up well after freezing and thawing, leading to a mushy salad when defrosted. Instead, enjoy it fresh or keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

What if my potatoes turn mushy while boiling?
If you find that your potatoes have become mushy, it usually means they were overcooked. To prevent this, keep a close eye on cooking time. Ideally, you want them to be fork-tender but still hold their shape. If you do end up with mushy potatoes, you might consider transforming the salad into a creamy potato mash by mixing it with some mayonnaise or sour cream!

Can my pet safely eat Olive Greek Potato Salad?
Very! While potatoes are generally safe for dogs in moderation, be cautious with the seasoned ingredients. Ingredients like onions and garlic are harmful to pets, so it’s best to make a separate, plain version of the salad for any furry friends. Always consult with your vet if you’re unsure.