Ingredients
Fresh Potatoes
Fresh potatoes are a staple ingredient in many cuisines, and when it comes to traditional Greek potato salad, they play a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Choosing the right type of potatoes for this recipe is essential, as it will determine how well they hold their shape and absorb the dressing.
For a classic Greek potato salad, you’ll want to use high-starch potatoes that are firm and waxy. These types of potatoes tend to retain their texture even when cooked and dressed, making them ideal for salads like this one. Some popular options for fresh potatoes that fit this description include:
- New Potatoes: These small, thin-skinned potatoes have a delicate flavor and a firm texture that works perfectly in potato salad.
- Red Bliss Potatoes: With their thin skin and waxy texture, Red Bliss potatoes add a pop of color and a slightly sweet flavor to the salad.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: These buttery, yellow-skinned potatoes have a smooth texture and a rich, earthy flavor that complements the herbs and spices in the dressing.
When selecting fresh potatoes for your Greek potato salad, look for ones that are firm to the touch with no signs of soft spots or sprouting. Avoid potatoes that are too large, as they may be too starchy and fall apart when cooked.
Cooking the potatoes is a critical step in making this recipe, as it will determine how tender and flavorful they become. For the Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad Recipe, you’ll want to boil the potatoes until they’re slightly undercooked, then shock them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This technique helps preserve their texture and prevents them from becoming mushy.
4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
The star of this light and easy Greek potato salad recipe are 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced. The type of potatoes to use for this recipe is crucial, as you want them to hold their shape well even after being tossed with the creamy dressing and other ingredients. Look for high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho, which will yield a lighter texture than waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold.
Once you have your potatoes peeled and sliced, make sure to remove any excess moisture from them to prevent sogginess in the salad. You can do this by drying them with paper towels or using a clean kitchen towel to gently pat them dry.
In addition to the potatoes, some other key ingredients in this Greek potato salad recipe include Kalamata olives, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. These ingredients add salty, savory flavor to the dish without overpowering the delicate taste of the potatoes.
As you’re preparing your ingredients for the salad, be sure to chop the red onion into small pieces so that it distributes evenly throughout the salad. You can also sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top of the salad before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
In this recipe, the potatoes are the foundation of the salad, providing a light and satisfying base for all the other flavors. So don’t be shy about using 4 large potatoes – they’re what make this Greek potato salad truly shine!
Cucumber and Tomato
The ingredients required for this delicious Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad recipe are quite straightforward and can be easily sourced from any local market or grocery store. The primary focus of this recipe is to create a refreshing salad that perfectly balances tanginess, sweetness, and creaminess.
First and foremost, you will need some fresh cucumbers. Opt for the English variety as they have a firmer texture and fewer seeds than the slicing varieties. You can purchase these from any local grocery store or farmers’ market depending on your preferences. Make sure to choose cucumbers that are firm, bright green in color, and have no signs of softness or wilting.
Next up is the star ingredient of this salad: juicy tomatoes! For the best results, use a variety that has good acidity like Roma or Plum tomatoes. These varieties have fewer seeds than beefsteak tomatoes and hold their shape well when diced. Select ones with vibrant red color and avoid any blemishes or soft spots.
You will also need some fresh dill for garnish and to add the authentic Greek flavor. Fresh parsley can be substituted if you cannot find fresh dill. You can use either the curly leaf or flat-leaf variety, whichever suits your taste buds better. Make sure to choose sprigs that are bright green with no signs of wilting.
In addition to these vegetables, some pantry staples like salt, black pepper, and red wine vinegar will be required for dressing. You can also add a bit of grated Greek feta cheese or chopped red onion if you prefer an extra kick in your salad. Olive oil is used as the base of this dressing which complements the fresh flavors of cucumbers and tomatoes beautifully.
Now that we have covered all the ingredients needed for this delightful Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad, let’s proceed to the cooking instructions where we will learn how to expertly chop, boil, and combine these ingredients to create an unforgettable dish perfect for warm weather gatherings.
1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
Cucumbers are a versatile ingredient that add a refreshing crunch to various dishes, including salads like this Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad Recipe.
In the case of this specific recipe, the large cucumber needs to be thinly sliced in order to achieve the right texture and flavor combination with the potatoes, tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives.
The slicing process can be done using a mandoline or a sharp knife. When cutting, it’s essential to apply gentle pressure to avoid applying too much pressure, which could result in the cucumber becoming mushy and unappetizing.
A large cucumber is typically around 10-12 inches long and has a diameter of about 1-2 inches. It should be firm and have a vibrant green color when selecting it from the store or market.
The type of cucumber used in this recipe can be an English cucumber, also known as a hothouse cucumber, which is characterized by its dark green skin, low seeds, and mild flavor.
Before slicing, make sure to wash the cucumber under cold running water to remove any dirt or bacteria. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel to prevent excess moisture from affecting the salad’s overall texture.
A good rule of thumb is to slice the cucumber into thin rounds that are about 1/8 inch thick. This will ensure that they cook evenly and quickly, adding a delicate crunch to the potato salad.
2 large tomatoes, diced
For this delicious and refreshing Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad Recipe, you will need two large tomatoes (also known as beefsteak tomatoes) that are perfectly ripe.
Selecting the right tomatoes for your potato salad is crucial, as it will greatly impact the overall flavor and texture of the dish. These heirloom-style tomatoes are ideal because of their rich sweetness, juiciness, and vibrant color.
Once you’ve picked out two beautiful tomatoes, wash them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Next, dry them gently with a clean towel or paper towels to prevent excess moisture from accumulating on the surface.
Cut each beefsteak tomato in half and then into diced pieces, about 1/2 inch (1 cm) in size. You should aim for around 8-10 ounces (225-285g) of diced tomatoes altogether, depending on their size.
The key to achieving the perfect texture is to make sure your diced tomatoes are uniform and not too large or too small. This will ensure that they cook evenly with the rest of the ingredients in the potato salad.
Olive Oil and Vinegar Dressing
The key to a delicious and authentic Greek potato salad lies not only in its preparation, but also in the selection of its ingredients.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for this light and easy recipe:
Potatoes
The star ingredient! For a classic Greek potato salad, choose high-starch potatoes such as Russet or Idaho. These will yield a fluffy interior and crispy exterior.
Olive oil
A good quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for the Mediterranean flavor of this dish. Use about 2 tablespoons to coat the vegetables.
Vinegar
White wine vinegar or red wine vinegar are common choices, but you can also use apple cider vinegar. For a lighter taste, start with 1 tablespoon and adjust to your liking.
Dijon mustard
- A small amount adds depth without overpowering the other flavors. Use about 1 teaspoon for this recipe.
- Salt and pepper: Of course! Season liberally, but taste as you go to avoid over-salting.
Now, let’s focus on our star dressing ingredient: olive oil and vinegar. A well-balanced ratio will make or break your Greek potato salad. Here’s how to get it right:
- Olive Oil Ratio: As a general rule, use twice as much olive oil as you do vinegar.
- Vinegar Ratio: Start with a small amount of vinegar and taste as you go. You can always add more but it’s harder to remove excess vinegar from the dressing.
The acidity in the vinegar cuts through richness and balances out the flavors. The key is to find that sweet spot where your dressing isn’t overpowering, yet still complements the potatoes beautifully.
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
The extra virgin olive oil is a crucial ingredient in many Mediterranean dishes, including this Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad Recipe. It’s the primary source of healthy fats that bring flavor and moisture to the salad.
When selecting an extra virgin olive oil, look for one that has been certified as “extra virgin” by a reputable third-party organization, such as the International Olive Council (IOC). This ensures that the oil meets certain standards of quality and purity.
A high-quality extra virgin olive oil is characterized by its rich, fruity flavor and aroma. It’s often described as having notes of green fruits, herbs, or spices, depending on the specific variety and production methods used.
The extra virgin olive oil in this recipe serves not only as a flavor enhancer but also as an emulsifier that helps to combine the ingredients together. By coating the potatoes and other vegetables with a light drizzle of olive oil, you’ll create a delicious and satisfying salad.
The 1/4 cup measurement is just a guideline, feel free to adjust it according to your personal taste preferences. You can also use a mixture of different olive oils or infused oils for added flavor and aroma.
Some popular alternatives to extra virgin olive oil include avocado oil, grapeseed oil, and sunflower oil. However, keep in mind that these oils have distinct flavors and properties that may alter the taste of your salad.
To prepare the recipe, simply combine 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil with other ingredients like cooked potatoes, red onion, cucumber, tomato, feta cheese, parsley, and oregano. Mix everything together in a bowl until well combined, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
The result is a deliciously light and easy Greek potato salad that’s perfect for hot summer days or casual gatherings. Enjoy!
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
The ingredients for this refreshing and light Greek potato salad are carefully chosen to enhance the flavors of the dish without overpowering it. The foundation of the salad lies in the use of high-quality potatoes, preferably small to medium-sized new potatoes or waxy potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red bliss.
For the dressing, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar play a crucial role. This ingredient is essential for adding a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the salad. The acidity in the vinegar helps to balance the richness of the potatoes and the creaminess of the feta cheese that will be added later.
It’s worth noting that there are different types of red wine vinegar, each with its own unique flavor profile. For this recipe, a mild or medium-strength red wine vinegar would work best as it provides a subtle yet noticeable acidity without overpowering the other flavors in the salad.
The 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar should be mixed well with other ingredients to create the dressing, which may include olive oil, garlic, and oregano. This dressing will not only flavor the potatoes but also help to keep them moist and slightly tender.
Instructions
Cook the Potatoes
In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of cooking potatoes to perfection for our delicious Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad recipe.
To begin, select 4-5 large potatoes, such as Russet or Idaho, that are high in starch. This type of potato will yield a light and fluffy texture ideal for salads.
Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, place them on a clean towel and gently pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Next, peel each potato using a vegetable peeler, creating smooth, even surfaces. If you prefer, you can leave some of the skin intact for added texture and nutrition.
Cut the peeled potatoes into 1-inch cubes or wedges, depending on your desired shape and size for the salad. Be sure to cut them evenly so that they cook at the same rate.
Place a large pot filled with cold water over high heat and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the potato cubes to the water using a slotted spoon or skimmer.
Return the water to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
After 10-12 minutes, remove the pot from the heat source and carefully pour off the hot cooking water using a large colander. Drain off as much excess water as possible from the colander back into the pot, creating a dry surface for your potatoes to sit on.
Let the cooked potatoes cool completely, either by spreading them out on a clean towel or letting them sit in the pot with the lid slightly ajar. This cooling process helps prevent moisture buildup and promotes even texture throughout the salad.
Boil sliced potatoes in a large pot of salted water for 57 minutes or until they are tender but still firm.
When it comes to preparing potatoes for a Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad Recipe, following proper instructions is crucial to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.
The first step involves boiling sliced potatoes in a large pot of salted water. This process can be broken down into several key components:
- Choose the right type of potato: For this recipe, you’ll want to select high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho. These varieties will yield a light and fluffy texture.
- Cut the potatoes thinly: Slicing the potatoes into thin rounds or wedges will help them cook evenly and quickly.
- Use salted water: Salt helps to season the potatoes as they cook, but it also serves another purpose – it reduces the starches in the potatoes, making them less likely to become too sticky or mushy.
Now, let’s talk about the cooking time. Boiling sliced potatoes for 57 minutes or until they are tender but still firm may seem like a long time, but trust us, it’s essential to get the texture just right. Here’s what you can expect:
- Tender: The potatoes should be cooked through, with no raw or hard centers.
- Firm: They should still have some bite and structure, rather than being soft or mushy.
Keep an eye on the cooking time and adjust as needed. You may need to cook the potatoes for a few minutes longer or shorter depending on your personal preference and the thickness of your slices.
Once the potatoes are cooked, they’re ready to be cooled and used in your Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad Recipe. Simply drain them, let them cool to room temperature, and then toss with the remaining ingredients, such as chopped cucumbers, red onion, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing potato salad!
Drain and set aside to cool
To follow the instructions for preparing this delightful Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad Recipe, it’s essential to carefully drain the excess moisture from the cooked potatoes.
The first step in draining the potatoes is to remove them from the cooking liquid or water they were boiled in. If you’re using a pot with a steamer basket, you can simply lift out the potatoes and place them on a plate or tray. If not, carefully pour off the cooking water into the sink and return the potatoes to the empty pot.
Next, use a paper towel or clean kitchen cloth to gently pat the surface of each potato dry. This helps to remove excess moisture and prevent sogginess in your potato salad.
Once you’ve drained and patted dry the potatoes, let them cool completely on the plate or tray. You can speed up this process by spreading them out evenly to allow air to circulate around each potato. It’s crucial not to skip this step, as trying to mix hot potatoes with other salad ingredients may result in a messy, unappetizing salad.
Once your potatoes have cooled down to room temperature, you can proceed with the remaining steps of your Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad Recipe – chopping the cooled potatoes into bite-sized pieces, mixing them with your desired dressing and seasonings, and serving chilled. The end result should be a deliciously creamy, crunchy, and flavorful potato salad that perfectly captures the essence of Greek cuisine.
Mix with Cucumber, Tomato and Dressing
- To prepare this refreshing Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad, start by gathering all the necessary ingredients.
- You will need 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces.
- Next, slice a cup of red onion and a cup of cucumber into thin strips.
- Cut 2 cups of juicy tomatoes into small chunks, about 1 inch in size.
- Also, pick a few fresh parsley leaves and chop them finely for garnish.
- Now, let’s move on to the dressing, which is what brings all these flavors together.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Add 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt to the dressing mixture and stir until smooth.
- Now it’s time to combine all the ingredients in a large bowl.
- In a big mixing bowl, toss together the diced potatoes, sliced red onion, cucumber strips, chopped tomatoes, and chopped parsley leaves.
- Pour the Greek yogurt-dressing mixture over the potato mixture and gently stir until everything is well coated.
- Season with salt to taste, but remember not to overdo it, as the dressing already has a good balance of flavors.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a good stir and garnish with some extra parsley leaves if desired.
- Finally, serve the Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad chilled, perfect as a side dish or a light meal on a warm day.
In a large bowl, combine cooled potatoes, cucumber and tomato slices
The instructions for making a delicious and refreshing Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad Recipe are as follows:
To start, you’ll need to prepare the ingredients by washing and peeling 4-5 large potatoes, depending on their size. Place them in a big pot of cold water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the vegetables by washing and slicing 1 large cucumber and 2 large tomatoes. Place the slices in separate bowls and refrigerate them until ready to use.
Once the potatoes have cooled down slightly, drain the water from the pot and transfer the cooked potatoes to a large bowl. Add the chilled cucumber and tomato slices to the bowl with the potatoes.
Mix all the ingredients together gently, so you don’t mash the delicate vegetables. Season the potato salad with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add any other desired herbs or spices at this stage.
Now it’s time to dress the salad. Mix 2-3 tablespoons of Greek yogurt with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of dried oregano in a small bowl until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and toss gently to combine. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Just before serving, garnish the salad with some fresh parsley or dill, if desired. This Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad Recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying side dish or light lunch during the warmer months of the year.
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing potato salad!
Drizzle olive oil and vinegar dressing over the top and toss gently
To create a delicious and refreshing Greek potato salad, you’ll need to follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the potatoes
Select 4-5 medium-sized potatoes that are high in starch, such as Russet or Idaho. Peel them using a vegetable peeler and cut them into bite-sized cubes. Rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove any excess starch.
Step 2: Boil the potatoes
Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the potatoes. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 3: Cool down the potatoes
Once cooked, immediately transfer the potatoes to an ice bath to cool them down quickly. This step is crucial in preventing the formation of excess moisture that can lead to a soggy potato salad.
Step 4: Prepare the dressing ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together vinaigrette (or red wine vinegar) and olive oil. For a lighter version, you can start with a ratio of 2-3 parts vinaigrette to 1 part olive oil.
Step 5: Assemble the salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, chopped kalamata olives (or any other brined black olives), diced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Pour the prepared dressing over the top of the potato salad and toss gently to combine.
Step 6: Season with salt and pepper
Give the potato salad a final seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting as you go to adjust the flavors. You can also add some chopped fresh parsley or dill for an extra burst of flavor.
And that’s it! Your delicious Greek potato salad is now ready to be served and enjoyed by everyone!
Optional Add-ins
Kalamata Olives or Feta Cheese
The addition of optional add-ins can elevate a basic potato salad to new heights, and for this light and easy Greek potato salad recipe, you’ll find that some ingredients are more authentic than others. For example, Kalamata olives and Feta cheese are staples in Greek cuisine but may not be to everyone’s taste.
Here are some options to consider when it comes to add-ins:
- Kalamata Olives: These dark purple, meaty olives are a hallmark of Greek cuisine. They’re rich in flavor and pair perfectly with the salty feta cheese.
- Feta Cheese: A crumbly, tangy cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, Feta is often used as a topping for salads, but it can also be crumbled into a potato salad to add depth and saltiness.
- Chopped red onion: Thinly slice a red onion and chop it into small pieces. This adds a punch of flavor and texture that complements the potatoes well.
- Diced bell peppers: Green, red, or yellow, diced bell peppers add crunch and sweetness to an otherwise savory potato salad.
- Chopped fresh parsley: A sprig of parsley can add a bright, herbaceous note to the dish. You can also use dill or tarragon for added flavor.
If you’re looking to avoid olives and Feta, consider adding other ingredients like capers, artichoke hearts, or chopped fresh herbs instead.
1/4 cup chopped kalamata olives or crumbled feta cheese adds a salty tang to this recipe
In the Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad Recipe, Optional Add-ins can be used to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. These add-ins are optional because they are not required for the recipe, but they can be added if desired to create a more complex and interesting taste.
Here are some examples of Optional Add-ins that can be used in this recipe:
Kalamata Olives
The chopped Kalamata olives add a salty, savory flavor to the potato salad. They are also quite rich in antioxidants and have been shown to have various health benefits.
It’s recommended to use about 1/4 cup of chopped kalamata olives for this recipe, but you can adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
Feta Cheese
The crumbled feta cheese adds a tangy and creamy texture to the potato salad. Feta is a type of cheese that originates from Greece, and it’s known for its distinctive salty flavor.
You can use about 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese for this recipe, but you can adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
When adding either the kalamata olives or feta cheese, make sure to mix them well with the other ingredients in the potato salad. This will help distribute their flavors evenly throughout the dish.
It’s also worth noting that these Optional Add-ins can be used separately or together. So if you like a stronger savory flavor, use just the kalamata olives. If you prefer a tangier taste, use only the feta cheese. Or, if you want to mix things up, try using both!
Dill or Chopped Fresh Parsley
When it comes to adding some extra flavor and freshness to your Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad Recipe, you’ve got two optional add-ins that can elevate the dish to new heights: dill or chopped fresh parsley.
Dill is a classic herb used in many Eastern European and Middle Eastern cuisines, including Greek cooking. It has a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy feta cheese and salty kalamata olives found in this potato salad recipe.
To use dill as an add-in, you can either chop fresh dill leaves or use dried dill weed. If using fresh dill, be sure to only chop what you need, as it can lose its potency quickly. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped fresh dill on top of the salad before serving for added visual appeal.
On the other hand, parsley is another popular herb that adds a freshness and brightness to many dishes, including this potato salad recipe. It has a slightly milder flavor than dill, but still packs a punch when used in abundance.
To use chopped fresh parsley as an add-in, simply chop a handful of parsley leaves and fold them into the salad before serving. Like with dill, you can also sprinkle some extra chopped parsley on top for added visual appeal.
Both dill and parsley pair beautifully with the ingredients in this Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad Recipe, adding depth and complexity to each bite. Feel free to use one or both of these optional add-ins to create a version that suits your taste buds best.
A sprinkle of chopped fresh dill or parsley can add freshness and depth to the flavors
When it comes to enhancing the flavor and presentation of a Light and Easy Greek Potato Salad, optional add-ins can make all the difference.
Here are some ideas for add-ins that can take your salad from ordinary to extraordinary:
Feta Cheese
Crumbling feta cheese into your potato salad adds a salty, tangy flavor and a burst of creamy texture. Look for a high-quality, crumbly feta cheese with a mild or sharp flavor.
Chopped Fresh Herbs
In addition to parsley and dill, you can also use other fresh herbs like mint, basil, or oregano to add freshness and depth to your potato salad. Simply chop the herbs finely and mix them into the salad just before serving.
Sliced Red Onion
Thinly sliced red onion adds a sweet and pungent flavor to your potato salad. You can also caramelize the onion in a pan with some olive oil until it’s dark golden brown for added depth of flavor.
Diced Bell Peppers
Green, red, or yellow bell peppers add a crunchy texture and a sweet, slightly smoky flavor to your potato salad. Use any color you like, but avoid using too much as they can overpower the other flavors.
Sliced Kalamata Olives: These salty, briny olives are a classic addition to Greek salads and add a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Use sliced or pitted olives for added convenience.
Feel free to get creative with your add-ins and experiment with different combinations to create a potato salad that suits your taste preferences!
Some other optional ingredients you might consider adding include:
- Capers for their tangy, salty flavor
- Sliced cherry tomatoes for their burst of juicy sweetness
- A sprinkle of paprika for added color and a smoky flavor
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