Rather than indulging in a traditional American creamy, mayo-laden potato salad, I propose this alternative: a Greek-inspired potato salad that is far more refreshing and appropriate for summertime picnic tables. Use of small waxy red potatoes keeps the glycemic index lower than using russets and ensures firm texture. Red onions carry anti-inflammatory quercitin and the mint and lemon pair well for a truly refreshing side dish. Obviously, the feta is optional. If you include feta, I recommend a sheep milk feta, ideally raw and local, but imported is a flavorful alternative.
- 10-12 small red-skinned potatoes
- ½ small red onion
- 1 lemon
- ¼ cup olive oil*
- ¼ cup lemon juice*
- 1/3-1/2 cup mint, chopped
- ¼ cup parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup kalamata olives, diced (optional)
- 2 oz. imported Greek feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Dice the onion into small pieces and cover with near boiling water to draw out the strength. Add the juice of ½ lemon. This creates a mild, and somewhat tangy onion that is less overwhelming to the palate.
Peel the potatoes, cut into large bite-sized chunks of approximately the same size, and rinse well. Add potatoes to a pot of cold water to cover by 1 1/2 inches, bring to a boil, and boil at medium-high heat. Test after 15 minutes for doneness – they should be easily pierced with a fork. Remove when done, drain, and place onto a cookie sheet to cool. Transfer to a serving bowl or dish when cool. Add onions, olives and optional feta and toss.
To make the dressing, in a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, mint, salt, and pepper with a whisk.
Serve at room temperature or chilled. When ready to serve, pour on the dressing, toss, and sprinkle with parsley.
Serves 6
(*If you prefer a more “wet” potato salad or will be serving it the next day, increase the amount of lemon juice and olive oil to 1/2 cup each and use as desired)
