Zoe’s Kitchen Copycat Grilled Potato Salad: An Authentic & Allergy-Friendly Recipe You’ll Love
Ah, Zoe’s Kitchen. For many, it was a cherished culinary destination, renowned for its fresh, wholesome, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. A standout favorite for countless patrons, especially those with specific dietary needs, was their incredible **Zoe’s Kitchen Potato Salad** and its equally beloved variant, the **Zoe’s Kitchen Grilled Potato Salad**. This unique dish wasn’t just tasty; it was a natural marvel—dairy-free, gluten-free, grain-free, and sugar-free, making it a perfect fit for a Whole30 lifestyle or simply a health-conscious diet.
The beauty of these two options was their simplicity: they originated from the exact same foundational recipe. The only distinction lay in one delightful extra step – grilling – which transformed the classic cold potato salad into a warm, slightly caramelized, and utterly irresistible grilled version. Unfortunately, all Zoe’s Kitchen locations have now closed, leaving a nostalgic longing for their distinctive flavors. But the absence of the restaurant doesn’t mean you have to forgo your cravings! This meticulously developed copycat recipe allows you to recreate the authentic taste and texture of your favorite Zoe’s Kitchen Grilled Potato Salad, ensuring those delicious memories can be savored right in your own home whenever the craving hits, which, for many, is quite often!
Why You’ll Adore This Copycat Zoe’s Kitchen Potato Salad Recipe
- Uncanny Copycat Flavor! Prepare for a truly authentic taste experience. This recipe has been carefully refined to accurately capture the tangy, herbaceous, and savory profile that made Zoe’s Kitchen potato salad so unique and beloved. If you were a loyal fan of the original, you’ll immediately recognize and appreciate this spot-on recreation. For those who’ve never had the pleasure, you are about to discover a remarkably fresh and flavorful potato salad that will quickly become a cherished addition to your recipe collection.
- Naturally Allergy-Friendly & Diet-Compliant! One of the most appealing aspects of the original Zoe’s potato salad was its broad appeal, accommodating a wide array of dietary requirements. Our copycat recipe proudly continues this tradition. It is naturally dairy-free, gluten-free, grain-free, and sugar-free, making it an excellent choice for individuals managing food allergies or specific dietary plans. Moreover, this recipe is entirely vegan and perfectly adheres to the strict guidelines of a Whole30 program. This inclusiveness ensures that everyone at your table, regardless of their dietary restrictions, can enjoy this delicious Greek potato salad without any compromise on flavor or texture. It’s truly a perfect dish for family gatherings, potlucks, and entertaining guests with diverse dietary needs.
- Effortlessly Easy to Make & Perfect for Meal Prep! Despite its gourmet taste and impressive nutritional profile, this recipe is remarkably straightforward to prepare. Featuring simple steps and readily available ingredients, it’s accessible even for beginner cooks looking to expand their repertoire. Beyond its ease of preparation, this potato salad is an ideal make-ahead dish. Preparing it a few hours, or even a day, in advance allows the vibrant Mediterranean flavors to deepen and meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. This convenience makes it a true lifesaver for busy weeknights, holiday meal planning, or when hosting events, as it significantly reduces last-minute kitchen stress.
- Versatile & Delicious, Hot or Cold! This Greek potato salad boasts incredible versatility, offering two equally delightful ways to enjoy it. You can serve it as a refreshing, chilled side dish, which is particularly wonderful for summer picnics, barbecues, and light lunches. Alternatively, you can elevate it to a warm, deeply flavorful grilled potato salad. A quick turn on a hot surface adds tantalizing crispy edges and a subtle smoky char, echoing the beloved grilled version from Zoe’s. Whether you prefer the cool tang of the classic or the warm, crispy texture of the grilled rendition, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser for any palate.
- The Ultimate Side Dish for Any Occasion! More than just a potato salad, this dish is a versatile companion capable of enhancing a wide variety of main courses. Its bright, savory, and tangy dressing provides a perfect counterpoint to rich meats and elevates lighter dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with various grilled proteins such as chicken, fish, and pork. Imagine serving it alongside my spicy pulled pork sliders for a hearty barbecue, complementing succulent mojo pork chops, or offering a vibrant contrast to my favorite marinated baked salmon. It’s also an excellent addition to any brunch spread, a festive holiday table, or a simple weeknight dinner, proving its adaptability and universal appeal.
Essential Ingredients and Helpful Substitution Notes
To craft this exceptional copycat Zoe’s Kitchen potato salad, the selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients is paramount. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that distinct Mediterranean flavor. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need, along with practical tips for substitutions to ensure a perfect dish every time.
- Red Potatoes. These are the quintessential base for our potato salad and absolutely essential for replicating the authentic Zoe’s Kitchen texture. Red potatoes are classified as “waxy” potatoes, which means they contain less starch compared to floury varieties. This characteristic allows them to maintain their shape beautifully when boiled, preventing them from becoming mushy – a critical factor for a potato salad that requires tender yet firm potatoes. Keeping the skin on not only adds a lovely rustic color but also contributes valuable nutrients and an appealing textural element. For a suitable substitute, you can confidently use other waxy varieties such as Yukon Gold potatoes, which offer a similar firm texture and buttery flavor. It’s crucial to avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they tend to absorb too much water, break down easily, and result in a mealy or crumbly salad texture.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Red Wine Vinegar. This classic pairing forms the backbone of our tangy, vibrant Greek dressing. It’s highly recommended to use a good quality extra virgin olive oil, as its robust and fruity notes will significantly enhance the overall flavor profile of the salad. The red wine vinegar provides that essential bright, sharp acidity, which perfectly balances the richness of the olive oil and the earthiness of the potatoes, creating a well-rounded dressing.
- Fresh Lemon Juice. Bright, zesty, and indispensable, fresh lemon juice is key to lifting and harmonizing all the flavors within the dressing. It introduces a lively citrus note that truly elevates the Mediterranean profile of the salad. While freshly squeezed lemon juice will always deliver the most vibrant and authentic taste, bottled lemon juice can be used as a convenient alternative if fresh lemons are unavailable. However, be aware that bottled versions might offer a slightly less intense and fresh flavor.
- Minced Garlic. Garlic is an undeniable staple in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, and it infuses our dressing with its characteristic pungent and aromatic depth. For the most robust and authentic flavor, using freshly minced garlic cloves is strongly encouraged. The difference in taste between fresh and pre-minced or powdered garlic is notable. Should convenience be a priority, jarred minced garlic can be used. If opting for garlic powder, remember that it is more concentrated; a general guideline is to use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of fresh garlic specified.
- Green Onions. These versatile alliums contribute a mild, fresh onion flavor and a delightful textural contrast with their subtle crunch. We utilize both the white and the green parts of the green onions. The white parts offer a slightly stronger onion bite, while the green tops provide a milder flavor and a beautiful splash of vibrant color. Chop them relatively finely to ensure they integrate seamlessly into the salad, providing flavor in every bite.
- Aromatic Spices. The carefully selected blend of dried oregano, basil, parsley, salt, and freshly ground black pepper is what imparts this potato salad with its distinctive and fragrant Greek-inspired essence.
- Oregano: A cornerstone of Greek cooking, it delivers a robust, earthy, and slightly bitter flavor profile.
- Basil: Adds a layer of sweet, peppery, and subtly minty aroma that complements the other herbs.
- Parsley: Contributes a fresh, clean, and slightly peppery taste, enhancing the overall brightness and finishing notes of the salad.
- Salt and Pepper: These are fundamental for seasoning, bringing out and balancing all the other intricate flavors. Always adjust these to your personal taste preference to achieve perfect equilibrium.
While dried herbs are wonderfully convenient and perform excellently in this recipe, if you have access to fresh herbs, feel free to incorporate them! Just keep in mind that fresh herbs are generally less potent than their dried counterparts, so you will typically need to use approximately three times the amount of fresh herbs to achieve a comparable flavor intensity.
Crafting Your Homemade Greek Potato Salad: A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide
Recreating this cherished Zoe’s Kitchen dish in your own kitchen is a straightforward and immensely gratifying process. By following these detailed instructions, you’ll achieve perfect results, whether you opt for the refreshing classic chilled version or the irresistible grilled potato salad with its unique crispy texture.
STEP 1: Thoughtful Ingredient Preparation. Begin by thoroughly washing your red potatoes. It’s important to note that peeling the potatoes is entirely optional and, for an authentic Zoe’s Kitchen experience, we recommend keeping the skin on, as it contributes to both the texture and the nutritional value of the salad. Once washed, cut the potatoes into uniform 1-inch, bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Next, prepare your aromatics: finely mince the garlic cloves and chop the green onions, making sure to use both the white and the green parts for a comprehensive flavor and appealing visual. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking, also known as “mise en place,” will make the entire process much smoother and more enjoyable.
STEP 2: Boil the Potatoes to Tender Perfection. Place the uniformly cut red potatoes into a large, sturdy pot. Add enough cold water to fully submerge the potatoes by at least an inch. Generously season the water with salt; this crucial step infuses flavor directly into the potatoes from the inside out, enhancing the overall taste of your salad. Bring the salted water to a vigorous rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly to maintain a steady, gentle simmer. Cook the potatoes for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender yet still firm enough to hold their shape without crumbling. It is paramount to avoid overcooking, as mushy potatoes will lead to a less desirable and inconsistent texture in your finished potato salad. As soon as they reach the desired tenderness, immediately drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander.
STEP 3: Whisk Together the Zesty Greek Dressing. While your potatoes are simmering, take the opportunity to prepare the vibrant and flavorful Greek dressing. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk all these ingredients together vigorously and continuously until they are thoroughly blended and slightly emulsified. This ensures all the flavors are well integrated. It is highly recommended to taste the dressing at this stage and adjust the seasonings as needed—you might prefer a little more salt, an extra grind of pepper, or a splash more lemon juice to suit your personal palate.
STEP 4: Combine Ingredients for the Classic Potato Salad. Once the potatoes are cooked and thoroughly drained, allow them to cool in the colander for approximately 5 minutes. This brief cooling period is essential: it permits some of the residual steam to escape, which prevents the dressing from becoming watery, and crucially, it allows the potatoes to better absorb the rich flavors of the dressing without breaking apart. Transfer the slightly cooled potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared Greek dressing evenly over the potatoes. Now, add about three-quarters of your chopped green onions to the bowl, making sure to reserve the remaining portion for a fresh garnish later. Gently mix everything together using a large spoon or a rubber spatula. The objective here is to evenly coat all the potato pieces with the dressing without mashing them. If your preference is for the classic, chilled Zoe’s Kitchen Potato Salad (the non-grilled version), your dish is now complete! You can enjoy it immediately while still warm, or for deeper flavor development, refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving it cold. This salad is truly delightful whether served warm or chilled.
STEP 5: Transform into Grilled Potato Salad (Optional but Highly Recommended!). For those whose hearts yearn for the distinctive Zoe’s Kitchen GRILLED Potato Salad, complete with its irresistible crispy edges and wonderfully deepened flavor, proceed to this exciting optional step. Heat a large, flat cooking surface over medium-high heat. Suitable options include an electric griddle, a spacious outdoor flat-top grill, or a large cast-iron skillet. The surface should be hot enough to develop a beautiful sear without scorching. If necessary, add a small amount of extra olive oil to the surface to prevent sticking. Spread the prepared potato salad evenly onto the hot surface in a single layer. Allow it to cook undisturbed for approximately 3-4 minutes on one side, or until you observe delightful browning and crispy bits forming on the potatoes. Then, carefully flip sections of the potato salad and grill for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. The aim is to achieve some lovely caramelization and a slight crispness, not to recook the potatoes entirely or char them excessively. If you are utilizing a standard-sized skillet, you may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the cooking surface, which is crucial for ensuring proper grilling and crispiness. The outcome will be a warm potato salad offering an incredible depth of flavor and a captivating textural contrast that truly elevates this dish.
Once your delectable potato salad, whether the classic chilled version or the warmly grilled rendition, is prepared, artfully plate it. Garnish generously with the remaining reserved sliced green onions for a final flourish of vibrant color and a burst of fresh flavor. ENJOY this homemade taste of Zoe’s Kitchen – a true Mediterranean delight!
Tips for Perfect Zoe’s Kitchen Potato Salad Every Time
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: This is arguably the most crucial tip. Overcooked potatoes will become undesirably mushy and will struggle to hold their shape, especially if you plan to grill them. Always aim for a texture that is tender but still firm to the bite.
- Salt the Potato Water: Seasoning the water generously before boiling is a fundamental step. This ensures that the potatoes are flavored from the inside out, providing a more profound and well-balanced taste to the entire salad.
- Use Quality Olive Oil: Since extra virgin olive oil constitutes a significant portion of the dressing, investing in a good quality oil will profoundly impact the overall flavor profile, lending a richer and more authentic Mediterranean taste.
- Fresh is Best: While we offer convenient substitutions, utilizing freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly minced garlic will yield the most vibrant, zesty, and authentic Greek flavors in your dressing.
- Gentle Mixing: Warm potatoes are delicate. When combining the dressing and green onions, mix gently with a large spoon or spatula to avoid breaking them apart and creating a mashed texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the dressing on its own and then the finished salad. Don’t hesitate to adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice to perfectly suit your personal taste preference before serving.
- For the Grilled Version: To achieve optimal crisping and browning, ensure your cooking surface is adequately hot and avoid overcrowding it. If using a standard skillet, grilling the potato salad in two separate batches will yield far superior results compared to attempting it all at once.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This wonderfully versatile Greek potato salad is an impeccable choice for a myriad of occasions. Serve it as a delightful and distinctive side dish at your next barbecue, potluck, casual family dinner, or a festive holiday gathering. It offers a refreshing and tangy alternative to traditional mayonnaise-based potato salads, providing a lighter and brighter flavor profile that is always a hit. For a truly complete and authentic Mediterranean meal, consider pairing it with succulent grilled chicken souvlaki, tender lamb chops, a flavorful grilled halloumi, or a simple, crisp Greek salad.
Storage: Any leftover potato salad should be promptly transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. It will maintain its delicious quality for up to 3-4 days. While it’s exceptionally tasty when served warm (especially the grilled version), it is equally enjoyable when eaten cold, straight from the fridge. If you wish to reheat the grilled version, a quick pan-fry or a few minutes on a hot griddle can help revive some of its appealing crispy texture, bringing it back to life.
Craving More Delicious Potato Recipes?
If you’ve thoroughly enjoyed creating and savoring this delightful Greek-inspired potato salad, you’ll undoubtedly appreciate exploring even more fantastic and versatile ways to incorporate potatoes into your meal planning. Potatoes are an incredibly adaptable ingredient, capable of being transformed into comforting casseroles, perfectly crispy roasted sides, or wonderfully creamy purees. Their versatility knows no bounds, making them a staple in kitchens worldwide. Here are some more delectable potato recipes from our collection to inspire your next culinary adventure and help you discover new favorites:
- Greek Lemon Potatoes: A timeless and zesty side dish featuring tender potato wedges baked to golden perfection with bright lemon, aromatic garlic, and a medley of classic Mediterranean herbs.
- Skillet Roasted Baby Potatoes: These small wonders are roasted until they are wonderfully crispy on the outside and exquisitely fluffy on the inside. A simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish that complements almost any main course.
- Creamy Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes: Indulge in the rich, smooth, and utterly satisfying texture of classic mashed potatoes, expertly prepared to be entirely dairy-free without sacrificing any of the luxurious creaminess you love.
We sincerely hope this **Zoe’s Kitchen Potato Salad** copycat recipe successfully brings a taste of that beloved restaurant right back to your kitchen and your dinner table! If you tried this recipe or any other recipe on my blog, we would be absolutely thrilled if you would take a moment to leave a 🌟 star rating and share your experience with us in the comments below! Your valuable feedback is incredibly important, not only to us but also helps other home cooks discover delicious new dishes and confidently try them out.
Zoe’s Kitchen Copycat Grilled Potato Salad
Kelly Kirkendoll
Pin Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl
- 1 electric griddle, flat grill or large cast-iron skillet
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Chef’s Knife
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Large Pot
- 1 Colander
Ingredients
- 2.5 pounds red potatoes (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (high quality recommended)
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is preferred, or 1/2 tsp garlic powder)
- 1/2 Tbsp chopped basil (use 1.5 Tbsp fresh if preferred)
- 1/2 Tbsp chopped parsley (use 1.5 Tbsp fresh if preferred)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (or more, to taste)
- ground black pepper (to taste)
- 3 green onions, chopped (white and green parts, divided for mixing and garnish)
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the red potatoes, then cut them into uniform 1-inch bite-sized pieces. There is no need to peel the potatoes as the skin adds to the authentic texture and nutrients. Mince the garlic and chop the green onions (both white and green parts), setting aside about a quarter of the chopped green onions for garnish later.
- Place the cut potatoes into a large pot and cover with cold, lightly salted water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer. Cook the potatoes for 10-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but still hold their shape firmly and are not mushy. Once cooked, immediately drain the potatoes in a colander.
- While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the Greek dressing. In a medium bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried basil, dried parsley, dried oregano, salt, and ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well blended and slightly emulsified. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
- Allow the drained potatoes to cool in the colander for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling period helps prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy and allows them to better absorb the dressing. Transfer the slightly cooled potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared Greek dressing over the potatoes and add the majority of the chopped green onions (the three-quarters you set aside). Gently mix with a spatula until the potatoes are evenly coated.
- If you prefer the classic, chilled Zoe’s Kitchen Potato Salad (the non-grilled version), your dish is now ready! You can serve it warm or refrigerate it for at least an hour to let the flavors deepen and serve it cold.
- To make the Zoe’s Kitchen GRILLED Potato Salad, heat a large flat cooking surface such as an electric griddle, a flat outdoor grill, or a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a touch of olive oil if necessary to prevent sticking. Spread the potato salad onto the hot surface in an even layer. Grill for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until the potatoes develop some crispy, caramelized edges and are heated through. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the cooking surface and ensure even grilling.
- Serve the potato salad immediately, garnished with the reserved fresh chopped green onions. Enjoy this taste of the Mediterranean!
Notes
If you prefer the original Zoe’s Kitchen potato salad (the non-grilled version), simply follow the recipe instructions up to Step 4 and omit the grilling step. Both versions are incredibly delicious and satisfying!