This healthy Mediterranean potato salad is a fresh, vibrant twist on the classic version. Packed with tender potatoes, crunchy vegetables, briny olives, and tossed in a zesty olive oil dressing, it’s both hearty and light. With no mayo in sight, it’s perfect for warm weather, potlucks, or as a wholesome side dish to grilled meats or fish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this salad brings bold Mediterranean flavors together with the comfort of creamy potatoes. It’s light enough to enjoy year-round and doesn’t rely on mayonnaise, making it a healthier and dairy-free option. The crunch from the cucumbers and red onions, the saltiness from the olives, and the brightness of lemon and herbs create a dish I keep coming back to.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Baby potatoes or waxy potatoes (like red or Yukon gold)
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Red onion
- Kalamata olives (pitted and halved)
- Fresh parsley
- Fresh dill or mint (optional)
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic (minced)
- Salt and black pepper
Directions
- I start by boiling the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15–20 minutes depending on their size.
- I drain and let them cool slightly, then halve or quarter them depending on their size.
- In a large bowl, I combine the potatoes with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and kalamata olives.
- In a small bowl or jar, I whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- I pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to coat.
- I add chopped parsley and dill (or mint if I’m using it), and toss again just before serving.
- I like to let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving so the flavors can meld.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6 servings as a side dish.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Cooling + Marinating time: 15 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I add crumbled feta cheese or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for more depth. I’ve also used arugula or baby spinach for added greens. For protein, I mix in chickpeas or grilled chicken to turn it into a complete meal. I also switch up the herbs depending on what I have on hand—basil works well, too.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Since there’s no mayo, this salad holds up great and even tastes better the next day. I don’t reheat it, but I like to let it sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before serving leftovers to bring out the flavors.
FAQs
Can I make this potato salad ahead of time?
Yes, I often make it a few hours ahead or even the day before. The flavors develop even more as it sits.
What kind of potatoes work best?
I use baby potatoes or waxy types like red or Yukon gold. They hold their shape well and have a creamy texture.
Is this salad served warm or cold?
I usually serve it at room temperature or slightly chilled, but it tastes great either way.
Can I add cheese?
Absolutely. Crumbled feta or shaved parmesan both work beautifully in this salad if I want a little extra richness.
What’s the best way to cut down on onion bite?
If I want a milder onion flavor, I soak the sliced red onion in cold water for 10 minutes before adding it to the salad.
Conclusion
This healthy Mediterranean potato salad is one of those go-to recipes I love making again and again. It’s flavorful, fresh, and easy to prepare without any heavy ingredients. Whether I’m hosting a summer BBQ, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a side that’s both healthy and satisfying, this salad always delivers.
Print
Best Ever Healthy Mediterranean Potato Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This healthy Mediterranean potato salad features tender potatoes, fresh vegetables, olives, and herbs tossed in a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. It’s a light, dairy-free alternative to traditional potato salad—perfect for warm-weather meals, potlucks, or healthy sides.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes or waxy potatoes (red or Yukon gold)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced or chopped
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or mint (optional)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Halve or quarter the potatoes depending on their size.
- In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and kalamata olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat.
- Add chopped parsley and dill or mint, and toss again.
- Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Add crumbled feta or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Mix in chickpeas or grilled chicken for a protein boost.
- Swap herbs like basil or arugula based on what you have.
- Soak red onions in cold water to reduce sharpness.
- Salad improves in flavor as it sits—great for meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
