Although feta originated in Greece, French feta, milder and less salty, is better for this salad because of the saltiness of the olive relish. You can make the olive relish up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, stirring occasionally, until ready to use.
Potato Salad with Artichokes, Feta and Olive Relish
5 Tbs. (2 1/2 fl. oz./75 ml) olive oil
2 1/2 Tbs. white wine vinegar
1 large garlic clove, minced
1 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground pepper
6 large Greek or Sicilian green olives, pitted and chopped
6 to 8 brine-cured black Mediterranean olives, pitted and chopped
1/2 cup (2 1/2 oz./75 g) chopped fennel
3 large green onions, including green parts, chopped
12 small multicolored potatoes (about 2 1/2 lb./1.25 kg total weight)
1 can (14 oz./440 g) quartered artichoke hearts in water
5 oz. (155 g) feta cheese, coarsely crumbled
To make the olive relish, combine the oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano and 1/4 tsp. pepper in a bowl. Whisk to blend. Stir in the olives, fennel and two-thirds of the green onions.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook until tender when pierced with a small knife, about 25 minutes. Drain and let stand until cool to the touch, about 20 minutes. Cut the potatoes in half, then transfer to a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Add the artichokes and olive relish. Toss to blend. Stir in most of the cheese, reserving some for sprinkling on top.
Sprinkle the remaining green onions and the remaining cheese over the salad and serve immediately. Serves 4 to 6.
Find more vibrant and versatile salads for every season in our
cookbook Salad of the Day, by Georgeanne Brennan.