Mediterranean Potato Salad
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with a delightful Mediterranean Potato Salad that combines tender potatoes, vibrant veggies, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing. This refreshing side dish is not only full of flavor but also packed with nutritious ingredients, making it the perfect complement to any turkey or roast. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a crowd-pleasing addition to your holiday table.
This Mediterranean Potato Salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that makes it a standout addition to any meal. The freshness of the ingredients paired with the zing of the dressing elevates the humble potato to new heights!
Celebrate with Flavor
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food. This Mediterranean Potato Salad captures the essence of the holiday with its vibrant colors and robust flavors. The combination of baby potatoes, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing is not only visually appealing but also nourishing. It’s a departure from traditional potato salads, infusing a Mediterranean flair that brightens up the festive table.
Using fresh and quality ingredients, this salad allows you to showcase seasonal produce. The sweet burst of cherry tomatoes, the crunch of cucumbers, and the briny notes from Kalamata olives harmonize beautifully with the tender potatoes. This dish is a tantalizing blend that pleases the palate and the eye, making it a must-try for your Thanksgiving spread.
Nutritional Benefits
Beyond its delightful taste, this Mediterranean Potato Salad is packed with nutrients. Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, providing energy and supporting immune health. Combined with fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers, this salad becomes a power-packed side rich in fiber, antioxidants, and hydration. It’s a nutritious option that balances the heavier fare often found at Thanksgiving meals.
The dressing made from fresh lemon juice and garlic adds not only flavor but also health benefits. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, while lemon juice provides vitamin C and supports digestion. When you serve this salad, you’re not just offering a delicious dish; you’re contributing to your guests’ health and well-being.
Tips for Preparation
To ensure your Mediterranean Potato Salad has the best flavor and texture, start with high-quality, fresh ingredients. Opt for firm baby potatoes to maintain their shape during cooking. Additionally, cutting them in halves allows for even cooking and makes them easy to toss with the other ingredients. Cooling the potatoes before mixing is crucial as it helps the flavors meld and prevents the salad from becoming mushy.
Feel free to customize this salad based on your preferences or dietary needs. Add feta cheese for a creamy touch or incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs too; fresh basil or dill could add a unique twist that complements the lemon dressing beautifully.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds of baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup of red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup of Kalamata olives, sliced
Dressing
- 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
Instructions
Boil the Potatoes
Place the halved baby potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and let cool.
Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve
Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean Potato Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Whether you're serving roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a grilled vegetable platter, this salad acts as a refreshing counterbalance. It’s particularly fantastic alongside grilled meats, adding a burst of flavor that enhances the overall meal.
Consider serving this salad as part of a buffet-style feast. Its vibrant colors and appealing presentation will entice guests to indulge. Prepare it ahead of time to allow the flavors to develop fully, ensuring a delightful experience when it’s served.
Storage and Leftovers
One of the great aspects of this Mediterranean Potato Salad is its versatility in storage. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop, making it just as tasty the next day. It usually keeps well for up to three days, so you can enjoy it as a quick lunch or a side for dinner.
To refresh the salad, simply give it a quick toss with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of lemon juice before serving. This will reinvigorate the flavors and keep it feeling fresh and lively. No need to waste; enjoy the health benefits and flavors of this delicious dish as part of your post-holiday meals!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, this salad is great when made a day ahead. Just keep it refrigerated.
→ What can I serve with this salad?
It pairs well with grilled chicken, seafood, or as part of a buffet.
Mediterranean Potato Salad
Elevate your Thanksgiving feast with a delightful Mediterranean Potato Salad that combines tender potatoes, vibrant veggies, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing. This refreshing side dish is not only full of flavor but also packed with nutritious ingredients, making it the perfect complement to any turkey or roast. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a crowd-pleasing addition to your holiday table.
Created by: Violet Hart
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6.0
What You'll Need
Potatoes
- 2 pounds of baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup of red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup of Kalamata olives, sliced
Dressing
- 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Place the halved baby potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and let cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 4g