Tzatziki Potato Salad Recipe

The Perfect Tzatziki Potato Salad Recipe You’ll Love Tonight

Tzatziki potato salad changes ordinary side dishes into a Mediterranean culinary adventure.

Tangy yogurt mingles with soft potatoes, creating a symphony of textures and flavors.

Crisp cucumber whispers freshness through each creamy bite, while delicate herbs dance across the palate.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients elevate this classic recipe beyond traditional expectations.

Zesty and light, the salad brings unexpected excitement to casual gatherings and elegant dinner parties.

Summer meals deserve something extraordinary that surprises and delights you.

Tzatziki Potato Salad: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic

  • Elevate Classic Potato Salad: This recipe transforms the traditional potato salad with a zesty Greek-inspired tzatziki twist, offering a refreshing and lighter alternative to mayo-based versions.
  • Quick and Easy Preparation: With just four simple steps and minimal cooking time, you can whip up this delicious side dish in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
  • Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with protein, fiber, and a balanced mix of healthy fats, this potato salad provides a satisfying and nutritious option that doesn't compromise on flavor or texture.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Suitable for summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a side dish for grilled meats, this tzatziki potato salad brings a cool, creamy element that complements a wide range of main courses.

Must-Have Ingredients for Tzatziki Potato Salad

Main Ingredients:

Potatoes: Starchy and creamy base of the salad, ideal when using waxy or all-purpose varieties for best texture.

Tzatziki Sauce:
  • Greek Yogurt: Creamy, tangy base that provides richness and traditional Mediterranean flavor.
  • Cucumber: Fresh and crisp ingredient that adds coolness and traditional tzatziki character.
Supporting Ingredients:
  • Garlic: Sharp, aromatic flavor that enhances the tzatziki sauces depth.
  • Salt: Essential seasoning that balances and highlights other ingredients.
Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Dill: Fresh herb that brings a light, bright note to the potato salad.
  • Black Pepper: Mild spice that adds subtle warmth and complexity to the dish.

How to Make the Best Tzatziki Potato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 12-15 minutes until you can easily pierce them with a fork. Carefully drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool slightly.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Tzatziki Dressing

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the tzatziki ingredients:
  • Greek yogurt
  • Grated cucumber
  • Minced garlic
  • Chopped fresh dill
  • Lemon juice
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Whisk all ingredients until well blended and smooth.

Step 3: Combine and Coat

Gently add the warm potatoes to the tzatziki dressing. Use a soft spatula to fold the potatoes, ensuring each piece gets evenly coated with the creamy sauce. The warmth of the potatoes will help the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Allow the potato salad to cool to room temperature. For best flavor, refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving. This gives the ingredients time to marry and develop a more intense taste. Garnish with extra dill or a sprinkle of paprika if desired.

Tips for Perfecting Tzatziki Potato Salad

  • Drain Potatoes Thoroughly: Ensure potatoes are completely dry after boiling to prevent watery tzatziki sauce and maintain the salad's creamy texture.
  • Serve at Perfect Temperature: Allow the salad to cool to room temperature, which helps flavors meld and enhances the overall taste profile.
  • Choose Waxy Potatoes: Select varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes that hold their shape and absorb dressing without falling apart.
  • Adjust Tzatziki Consistency: If sauce seems too thick, thin it with a splash of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil for smooth coating.
  • Enhance Freshness: Garnish with extra fresh dill or chopped mint just before serving to boost the herb's bright, aromatic qualities.

Storing and Reheating Tzatziki Potato Salad

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the salad chilled to maintain its creamy texture and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Reheating: Gently warm the salad in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, stirring halfway through to distribute heat evenly. If the tzatziki looks separated, stir well to restore its creamy consistency.
  • Fresh Touch: Before serving cold or reheated leftovers, sprinkle some fresh chopped dill or parsley on top to revive the flavors and add a bright, fresh element to the dish.

Pairing Tzatziki Potato Salad with Grilled Meats

  • Pair with Grilled Souvlaki: Serve this tangy tzatziki potato salad alongside juicy, marinated chicken or pork souvlaki for a classic Greek-inspired meal that brings out the cool, creamy tzatziki flavors.
  • Match with Crisp White Wine: Choose a refreshing Assyrtiko from Santorini or a chilled Sauvignon Blanc to complement the herb-packed tzatziki and balance the potato's richness.
  • Combine with Mediterranean Mezze: Create a vibrant spread with hummus, olives, feta cheese, and warm pita bread to turn this potato salad into a full Mediterranean feast that celebrates fresh, zesty ingredients.
  • Serve with Grilled Fish: The cool cucumber and yogurt notes of tzatziki perfectly cut through the richness of grilled sea bass or salmon, creating a light and satisfying summer meal.

Creative Variations of Tzatziki Potato Salad

  • Greek Garden Fresh: Fold in diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese for an extra Mediterranean burst of flavor.
  • Herb-Infused Zinger: Sprinkle chopped fresh dill, mint, and parsley to elevate the herbal notes and add vibrant green colors.
  • Protein Power Boost: Mix in grilled chicken chunks or chickpeas for a more substantial and filling side dish that transforms the salad into a complete meal.
  • Spicy Mediterranean Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to introduce a subtle heat that complements the cool tzatziki base.
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Tzatziki Potato Salad Recipe

Tzatziki Potato Salad Recipe


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4.6 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Cool Greek-inspired tzatziki potato salad combines creamy yogurt, crisp cucumbers, and herb-infused potatoes for a refreshing Mediterranean twist. Delightful at summer picnics, this dish brings tangy flavors and cool comfort you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) baby red potatoes, halved
  • 2 Persian cucumbers, chopped
  • 0.5 cup chopped dill pickles
  • 0.5 cup diced red onion

Herbs and Seasonings:

  • 0.25 cup freshly chopped dill
  • 2 cloves garlic, grated
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt, divided
  • 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 0.25 teaspoon MSG (optional)
  • Zest of 0.5 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Smoked paprika, for garnish (optional)

Dressing Ingredients:

  • 0.67 cup whole plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

Instructions

  1. Carefully select medium-sized potatoes and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
  2. Place potatoes in a large pot, covering them completely with cold water and adding of salt to enhance flavor during cooking.
  3. Bring water to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for 12-15 minutes, ensuring potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  4. Drain potatoes in a colander, gently shaking to remove excess water, and let them cool for 2-3 minutes to prevent overcooking.
  5. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, finely grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, extra virgin olive oil, white vinegar, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper.
  6. Whisk tzatziki ingredients until smooth and well-integrated, creating a creamy and aromatic dressing.
  7. Carefully cut warm potatoes into bite-sized chunks, allowing them to absorb the dressing’s flavors more effectively.
  8. Gently fold potato chunks into the tzatziki mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly and generously coated.
  9. Allow the salad to rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, enabling the flavors to meld and develop a rich, tangy profile.
  10. Garnish with additional fresh dill or chopped chives before serving as a refreshing side dish.

Notes

  • Chill this zesty potato salad for deeper flavor infusion, allowing herbs and yogurt to meld beautifully.
  • Leftover salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, becoming even more delicious as ingredients marinate.
  • Switch cucumber types based on seasonal availability, from English to Persian varieties for subtle taste variations.
  • Fresh dill transforms this dish from ordinary to extraordinary, providing bright, aromatic undertones.
  • Opt for waxy potato varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes to maintain perfect texture and prevent crumbling.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 1200mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
Mary Ellen

Mary Ellen

Founder, Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Artisanal Bread Making
  • Exquisite Pastry Craftsmanship
  • Creative Dessert Presentation
  • Flavor Profile Development
  • Menu Concept Innovation.

Education

Savannah Technical College

  • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts
  • Focus: A specialized program focusing on baking and pastry fundamentals, including bread making, cake decorating, and advanced pastry techniques. Developed creative presentation skills and an understanding of ingredient functions through lab-based practice.

Mary Ellen is the heart and soul of thatsmyhome.com. As the founder, pastry chef, and recipe developer, she refined her skills at Savannah Technical College with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts. 

Mary blends classic techniques with modern twists to make artisanal breads, beautifully crafted pastries, and desserts full of unique flavor. Her passion is evident in every recipe, and she enjoys sharing her expertise through hands-on pastry workshops and insightful articles in local culinary magazines.

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