Name: Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 pounds small new potatoes (washed and quartered); ½ medium red onion (finely chopped); ½ cup Kalamata olives (chopped); ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled); ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped); 3 green onions (chopped); ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic (minced); Salt and pepper (to taste)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 56 reviews

If you’re craving a vibrant dish that bursts with flavors and textures at every bite, this Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe is just the ticket. It combines tender, quartered new potatoes with sharp red onions, salty Kalamata olives, and creamy crumbled feta to create a colorful and comforting salad. Dressed in a bright, garlicky lemon and olive oil vinaigrette, this salad celebrates the heart of Mediterranean cuisine in a way that’s both simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious. Whether it’s for a picnic, a dinner side, or a potluck favorite, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to dishes that friends and family can’t stop asking for.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three clear glass bowls on a white marbled surface, each with different layers of ingredients. The first bowl contains neatly separated small piles of chopped dark olives, crumbly white cheese, finely chopped green herbs, finely chopped light green onions, and finely chopped purple onions. The second bowl shows small, light golden potato pieces with soft, smooth texture filling the bowl. The third bowl features all the ingredients from the first two bowls mixed together, showing the light golden potato pieces combined with dark olives, white crumbled cheese, green herbs, and bits of onions all coated lightly in dressing, creating a colorful mix. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays its part beautifully—from the earthiness of the potatoes to the tangy notes of lemon juice and the punch of feta cheese. Every element adds to an exciting mix of flavor, texture, and freshness that makes this salad so special.

2 pounds small new potatoes (washed and quartered): These tender potatoes hold their shape and provide a creamy base for the salad.
½ medium red onion (finely chopped): Adds a sweet yet sharp crunch to balance the richness.
½ cup Kalamata olives (chopped): Brings a briny, salty depth that screams Mediterranean.
½ cup feta cheese (crumbled): Gives creaminess and a tangy punch that complements the potatoes perfectly.
¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped): Offers a fresh, herbal brightness to lift the flavors.
3 green onions (chopped): Adds a subtle spiciness and beautiful streaks of green.
¼ cup olive oil (extra virgin): The foundation of the dressing, rich and fruity for that authentic taste.
3 tablespoons lemon juice: Provides vibrant acidity to brighten the entire dish.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the salad with savory depth.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the fresh ingredients.

How to Make Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Start by placing the quartered new potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let them simmer until tender but still firm—about 10 to 15 minutes. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked potatoes provide the ideal texture for your salad, holding their shape without becoming mushy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While your potatoes cook, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This dressing is the heart of your Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe, blending bright acidity with rich olive oil and fragrant garlic for a perfectly balanced flavor.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

Once the potatoes are tender, drain and let them cool slightly. Then, in a large bowl, toss the warm potatoes with finely chopped red onion, Kalamata olives, green onions, fresh parsley, and crumbled feta cheese. The warmth of the potatoes will start to soften the olives and cheese, creating that signature Mediterranean blend.

Step 4: Toss with Dressing and Chill

Pour your prepared dressing over the potato mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Letting the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite more harmonious and vibrant.

How to Serve Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with a mixture of halved yellow and white baby potatoes that have a soft texture. Mixed in are small pieces of black olives, finely chopped red onions, and bright green chopped herbs scattered evenly on top. There are lots of small white crumbles of cheese spread across the salad, giving a crumbly texture contrast. The dish looks fresh and colorful with a blend of creamy, soft, and slightly crunchy ingredients, all on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a few whole Kalamata olives on top right before serving. A few cracks of black pepper right at the end will elevate the freshly dressed salad’s aroma and taste.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully as a side with grilled lamb or chicken, adding a refreshing counterpoint to smoky, savory mains. It also shines beautifully alongside vibrant hummus and warm pita bread when you want a light Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting, present this salad in a large rustic bowl or assemble individual portions in small, colorful serving cups. Layering in some cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes can add even more texture and a gorgeous Mediterranean flair. Don’t forget a drizzle of extra olive oil just before serving to keep everything shiny and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors mellow and deepen, so leftovers often taste even better the next day.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad because the potatoes and fresh ingredients will lose their texture and become mushy. It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not needed. If you prefer it slightly warm, bring it to room temperature by leaving it out for 30 minutes before serving—this will preserve the freshness and texture perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe?

Yes, but small new potatoes or baby potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well after boiling. Russet potatoes can get too mushy, which changes the texture of the salad.

Is it possible to make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative to retain the creamy texture without dairy.

How long should I let the salad rest before serving?

Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator so the flavors blend nicely, but it can also be made a few hours ahead for even better taste.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Definitely—diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can add fresh crunch and vibrant color, complementing the classic Mediterranean flavors.

What kind of olives work best in this salad?

Kalamata olives are traditional for their robust flavor and meaty texture, but you can also experiment with green olives or Castelvetrano olives for a milder, buttery taste.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe—it’s simple, fresh, and packed with Mediterranean charm. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner or a lively gathering with friends, this salad will bring smiles and satisfied appetites. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy potatoes! Happy cooking and even happier eating!

Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need