Greek Potato Salad: Bright, Creamy, and Brimming with Greek Flavor

A Sunny, Satisfying Favorite for Potlucks and Weeknight Dinners

I recently whipped up this Greek Potato Salad after a sun-warmed afternoon in the backyard. The potatoes are tender and creamy, the feta brings a salty kiss, and briny olives sparkle against lemony olive oil. It’s the kind of dish you scoop onto a plate and immediately think, “I could eat this all week.”

If you’re feeding friends or simply stocking your fridge for quick lunches, this salad comes together with pantry staples and a few bright, fresh ingredients. It holds up beautifully, mingling flavors as it chills, yet it still tastes vibrant enough to brighten any table.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds small potatoes, halved (choose waxy varieties; boil until just tender when pierced with a knife)
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil (quality oil makes the dressing shine)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons) (adjust to taste; you can add more at the end if you like brighter acidity)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (optional; for a milder flavor, press or crush and let infuse in the dressing)
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (adds sharp sweetness and color)
• 1 cucumber, diced (seeded if very watery)
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, halved (briny pop in every bite)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (creamy-salty contrast; add just before serving for best texture)
• 2 tbsp capers, rinsed (optional; extra briny bite)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill (bright herbs wake up the salad)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1–2 tsp fresh, if you have it)
• Salt and pepper to taste (feta adds salt, so taste before adding more)
• Optional: 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts (for depth and color)

Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil. Add the potatoes and simmer until a fork slides through them with little resistance, about 12–15 minutes. Drain well and let them steam dry for a few minutes in the pot or a colander.
2. While the potatoes cook, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl until the dressing looks glossy and emulsified.
3. When the potatoes are warm, cut them into bite-sized pieces and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Pour in a portion of the dressing and toss gently to start coating the potatoes; you want them glistening but not swimming.
4. Add the red onion, cucumber, olives, and capers. Fold in the feta and fresh herbs, then sprinkle with the remaining oregano. Toss softly so the feta stays crumbly and the vegetables keep their structure.
5. Taste and adjust: more lemon juice for brightness, more salt if needed (remember feta is salty), and a little extra olive oil if the salad seems dry. If you like, let it rest 15–20 minutes to let flavors bloom.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature for a brighter, more vibrant flavor, or refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to let the flavors meld. It will continue to taste delicious as it chills.

Tips & Variations

• Heat and spice: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for a gentle kick.
• Gluten-free and dairy options: This salad is naturally gluten-free. For a vegan version, swap feta for a crumbly plant-based feta or omit cheese entirely and add a touch more cucumber and olives for texture.
• Packed with protein: Stir in chickpeas or white beans to make it a heartier side or a light main.
• Make-ahead: The flavors deepen after a few hours in the fridge. If possible, prep components in advance and toss with dressing just before serving.
• Texture tips: If you prefer crisper vegetables, add the cucumber and onion just before serving rather than mixing in early.
• Storage and reheating: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. This dish is best served cold or at room temperature; avoid reheating to preserve the feta texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairings: Grilled lemon chicken, grilled fish like sea bass or salmon, or a platter of grilled vegetables. A side of warm pita and hummus elevates the spread into a casual feast.
• Make-it-a-meal ideas: Spoon over a bed of greens with cherry tomatoes for a complete salad bowl, or toss with cooked pasta (orzo or small shells) for a Greek-inspired pasta salad.
• Plating tips: Serve on a large wooden board or platter with extra feta crumbles, lemon wedges, and a handful of fresh herbs for color. A light drizzle of olive oil just before serving makes the salad gleam.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead and keep it in the fridge?

Yes. The flavors deepen after a few hours. For the best texture, mix most of the ingredients except the feta and herbs, then fold in those just before serving or when you’re ready to plate. Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Can I use regular potatoes instead of small potatoes?

You can. Cut larger potatoes into bite-sized chunks and adjust the cooking time. They should be tender but not mushy. Waxier varieties hold shape nicely for this salad.

Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely. Omit the feta or replace it with a firm tofu feta or a high-quality vegan feta. You can add a touch more olives and capers to maintain the briny balance and maybe a splash of extra lemon juice.

What pasta types work if I want to turn this into a Greek potato-pasta salad?

Coat short pasta shapes like orzo, small shells, or mini farfalle with the same dressing, then fold in the potatoes and veggies. Add feta last to keep its creamy texture.

How do I keep the dressing silky and prevent separation?

Whisk the dressing until emulsified and add the dressing gradually to the warm potatoes so it absorbs evenly. A touch of a dairy-free yogurt or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can help stabilize, if desired.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended. Potatoes and feta can change texture when frozen and thawed, leading to a mushier salad. It’s best prepared fresh or cooled and stored in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Potato Salad is a bright, crowd-pleasing side that tastes like sunshine and summer nights. It comes together with simple pantry staples, travels well for picnics, and adapts easily to what you have on hand. Save this recipe for your next potluck, meal-prep day, or an easy, flavorful side to accompany a weeknight grilled dinner. Pin it for later, share it with friends, and enjoy a dish that feels both comforting and bright with every bite.