Name: Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: YOGURT SAUCE; 1½ cups full-fat greek yogurt; ¼ cup parsley; 1 tbsp dill; 2 garlic cloves; 1 tsp kosher salt; 2 tsp lemon juice; For Fries:; 4 cups Vegetable Oil; water; 2 cups ice; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 3 Medium Russet Potatoes; 1 package McCormick® Zesty Spice Blend; toppings; ½ cup chickpeas; ½ cup cucumber; 1 cup romaine lettuce; 1 plum tomato; ¼ cup red onion; ½ cup feta cheese; 2 tbsp dill

If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors and love a good French fry, then this Mediterranean loaded French fry salad recipe is for you. It’s a fun twist on a traditional salad, swapping out lettuce for crispy fries and loaded with delicious Mediterranean ingredients like chickpeas, cucumber, and feta cheese, all topped with a tangy yogurt sauce.

Photos of Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad Recipe

Most of these ingredients should be easy to find in your local supermarket, but there are a few you might want to look out for. McCormick® Zesty Spice Blend is a key ingredient to add kick to your fries. If it's not available, you can substitute with any other spice blend you prefer. Full-fat Greek yogurt is used for the sauce, it's thicker and creamier than regular yogurt. Lastly, make sure you choose a good quality feta cheese, it adds a tanginess that complements the rest of the ingredients.

Ingredients for Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad

Greek yogurt: A thick, creamy yogurt that will form the base of our tangy, herby sauce.

Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor to our sauce.

Dill: Another herb for the sauce, dill adds a unique flavor that pairs well with the Greek yogurt.

Garlic: Gives our sauce a bit of a kick and complements the herbs.

Kosher salt: We'll use this to season our fries and our sauce.

Lemon juice: Adds a tangy note to our sauce and also keeps our cut potatoes from browning.

Russet potatoes: The best type of potato for making crispy fries.

McCormick® Zesty Spice Blend: This will give our fries a flavorful kick.

Chickpeas: Adds a bit of protein and texture to our salad.

Cucumber: Gives a fresh crunch to our salad.

Romaine lettuce: Adds some greens and freshness to our salad.

Plum tomato: Adds a juicy, tangy note to our salad.

Red onion: Gives a bit of a bite and vibrant color to our salad.

Feta cheese: A tangy cheese that complements the other flavors perfectly.

Dill: Used as a garnish, giving our salad a final touch of fresh herb flavor.

One reader, Karlis Henning says:

This Mediterranean loaded French fry salad recipe is a game-changer! The combination of crispy fries, fresh veggies, and zesty yogurt sauce is simply divine. It's a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delightful and satisfying meal.

Karlis Henning

Essential Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad

How to make yogurt sauce: Combine Greek yogurt, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and lemon juice in a bowl, then refrigerate until ready to use.

How to prepare fries: Heat vegetable oil, soak potato slices in cold water and lemon juice, drain and dry, then fry in batches until golden brown and crispy.

How to assemble the salad: Spread a layer of fries on a platter, top with yogurt sauce, chickpeas, cucumbers, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and feta cheese, then add more yogurt sauce and sprinkle with dill.

How To Make Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad

Make salad more fun with our tasty Mediterranean french fry salad topped with cucumbers, onion, chickpeas, and feta all tossed in a tangy yogurt sauce!

Preparation: 45 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 1 hour 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

YOGURT SAUCE

1½cupsfull-fat Greek yogurt,plain
¼cupparsley,fresh, roughly chopped
1tbspdill,fresh, chopped, plus more for garnish
2garlic cloves,minced
1tspkosher salt
2tsplemon juice

For Fries:

4cupsvegetable oil,for frying
water,cold, for soaking
2cupsice
2tbsplemon juice,divided
3medium russet potatoes
1packageMcCormick® Zesty Spice Blend

TOPPINGS

½cupchickpeas,drained, rinsed
½cupcucumber,diced
1cupromaine lettuce,chopped
1plum tomato,diced
¼cupred onion,diced
½cupfeta cheese
2tbspdill,fresh, roughly chopped

Instructions

In a medium bowl, mix together the yogurt, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and lemon juice. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use, up to 1 week.

Fries:

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil over medium-low heat until the temperature reaches 325 degrees F.
Fill a large bowl with cold water, ice, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
Peel the potatoes and slice into ¼-inch thick strips, about 3-inches long. Transfer the potato slices to the cold water as you go.
Rinse the potatoes under more cold water in the bowl until the water runs clear, rinsing off any excess starch. Add the remaining tablespoon of lemon juice and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Line 2 baking sheets with thick paper, such as brown paper grocery bags.
Remove the potatoes from the fridge and drain, then dry completely with a clean kitchen towel.
Working in batches, cook the potatoes in the hot oil for 6 to 8 minutes, or until they’re soft and light golden in color.
Remove the fries from the oil using a wire mesh skimmer and transfer to the prepared baking sheets to drain. Let stand at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes.
Increase the oil temperature to 375 degrees F.
Working in batches, return the fries to the hot oil and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on clean paper-lined baking sheets.
Sprinkle generously with the zesty seasoning.

To Assemble:

Spread a layer of fries on a platter and top with some of the yogurt sauce, chickpeas, cucumbers, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and feta cheese.
Top with more yogurt sauce. Sprinkle with dill.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 4733.53kcal
Fat: 471.21g
Saturated Fat: 42.35g
Trans Fat: 3.44g
Monounsaturated Fat: 324.99g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 78.42g
Carbohydrates: 108.13g
Fiber: 12.59g
Sugar: 18.98g
Protein: 40.53g
Cholesterol: 62.10mg
Sodium: 1442.16mg
Calcium: 526.18mg
Potassium: 2142.04mg
Iron: 8.38mg
Vitamin A: 210.35µg
Vitamin C: 48.71mg

Crucial Technique Tips for Mastering Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad

When frying your potatoes, it's crucial to double fry them for the best results. The first fry at a lower temperature cooks the potatoes through and makes them tender. The second fry at a higher temperature crisps them up. This method ensures your fries are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Also, remember to season your fries immediately after the second fry when they're still hot and oily. The seasoning will stick to the fries better, giving them a more robust flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad

Prep ahead: Make the yogurt sauce and zesty spice blend in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This will save time when assembling the salad.

Batch cooking: Cook the fries in batches to ensure they are crispy and evenly cooked. This will also help you manage the frying process more efficiently.

Organized workspace: Keep all your ingredients and tools organized and within reach to streamline the assembly process. This will help you work more efficiently and save time.

Multi-task: While the fries are draining or cooking, use that time to prepare the toppings and assemble the salad. Multi-tasking can help you save valuable time in the kitchen.

Prep vegetables in advance: Wash, chop, and store the vegetables in airtight containers in the refrigerator ahead of time. This will cut down on prep time when assembling the salad.

Substitute Ingredients For Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad Recipe

full-fat greek yogurt - Substitute with coconut yogurt: Coconut yogurt is a dairy-free alternative that provides a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a suitable substitute for Greek yogurt in the sauce.
russet potatoes - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a slightly sweeter flavor and a vibrant color, adding a unique twist to the dish while providing similar texture and versatility when roasted as fries.
vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil adds a Mediterranean touch and imparts a rich, fruity flavor to the fries, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
feta cheese - Substitute with halloumi cheese: Halloumi cheese has a similar salty and tangy flavor to feta, but it has a unique texture that holds up well when grilled or fried, adding a delightful contrast to the salad.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad

Elevate the fries: Instead of serving the fries in a traditional manner, consider stacking them in a small tower or arranging them in a visually appealing manner on the plate. This will add a touch of elegance to the dish.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant colors to the dish by using fresh, colorful ingredients such as ripe tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and bright green dill. This will create a visually stunning presentation that is both appetizing and aesthetically pleasing.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the loaded fries to stand out. By strategically placing the toppings and sauce, you can create a visually striking presentation that showcases the star of the dish.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Precision in arranging the fries and toppings will demonstrate a high level of culinary skill and attention to detail.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the dish, such as a delicate sprinkle of toasted chickpeas or a crispy lettuce garnish. This will introduce a delightful textural contrast to the loaded fries salad.
Highlight the yogurt sauce: Instead of simply drizzling the yogurt sauce over the fries, use a piping bag to create elegant swirls or artistic patterns on the plate. This will add a professional touch to the presentation.
Emphasize the feta cheese: Crumble the feta cheese in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that it is evenly distributed across the dish. The cheese should be showcased as a key element of the Mediterranean-inspired loaded fries salad.
Consider the plate selection: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish and allows the loaded fries salad to take center stage. The right plate can enhance the overall presentation and create a memorable visual impact.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Delicious Loaded French Fry Salad

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making sauces, dips, and dressings.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential tool for combining ingredients, marinating, or tossing salads. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.

Storing and Freezing Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad: A Guide

To store the mediterranean loaded french fry salad, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The yogurt sauce and fries should be stored separately to maintain their texture and flavor.
If you have leftover yogurt sauce, it can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Use it as a dip for vegetables or as a spread for sandwiches.
To freeze the french fries, let them cool completely after cooking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Transfer the frozen fries to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat the frozen fries, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Do not thaw the fries before reheating, as this can make them soggy.
The toppings, such as chickpeas, cucumber, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and feta cheese, should be stored separately in the refrigerator. They can be kept fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly in airtight containers.
To maintain the crispness of the lettuce and cucumber, wrap them in slightly damp paper towels before storing them in the refrigerator. This will help prevent them from wilting or drying out.

How To Reheat Leftover Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad

To reheat leftover mediterranean loaded french fry salad, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will help crisp up the fries without burning them.
Spread the leftover fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Make sure the fries are in a single layer to ensure even reheating.
If the fries seem dry, you can lightly brush them with some olive oil to help restore their crispiness.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and reheat the fries for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
While the fries are reheating, prepare the toppings. If you have leftover yogurt sauce, chickpeas, cucumbers, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and feta cheese, you can reheat them separately in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm.
Once the fries are crispy and the toppings are warm, assemble the salad by layering the fries on a platter and adding the toppings as desired. If you have fresh dill, sprinkle it on top for added flavor and freshness.
If you find that the yogurt sauce has thickened up in the fridge, you can thin it out with a little water or lemon juice to achieve the desired consistency.
Serve the reheated mediterranean loaded french fry salad immediately while it's still warm and crispy. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!

Fascinating Facts About Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad

The Mediterranean loaded French fry salad recipe is a creative fusion of Mediterranean and American cuisines, blending the flavors of crispy fries with the freshness of yogurt sauce and a variety of toppings. This dish offers a unique twist on traditional salads, incorporating the beloved French fry as a base. It's a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean in a fun and unexpected format.

Is Making Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as potatoes, chickpeas, and vegetable oil, are affordable and readily available. The addition of yogurt and feta cheese may slightly increase the cost, but they are versatile and can be used in various other dishes. The total cost for a household of 4 people would be approximately $15-$20. Overall Verdict: 8/10. The dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and budget-friendly option for a family meal.

Is This Mediterranean Loaded Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Mediterranean loaded french fry salad recipe is a mix of healthy and unhealthy elements. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like Greek yogurt, fresh vegetables (cucumber, lettuce, tomato, onion), and herbs (parsley, dill). These provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The chickpeas add protein and the feta cheese contributes calcium. However, the recipe's main component, french fries, is deep-fried in vegetable oil, making them high in calories and unhealthy fats. The excessive use of oil can negate the health benefits of the other ingredients.

To make this recipe healthier:

Instead of deep-frying, try baking the potato strips in the oven with a light coating of olive oil. This will significantly reduce the calorie and fat content.
Use a healthier oil for frying, such as coconut or avocado oil, which are more stable at high temperatures and contain beneficial fats.
Increase the proportion of vegetables to fries, making the salad more nutrient-dense and lower in calories.
Opt for low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt in the sauce to cut down on saturated fat.
Add more protein sources, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to make the salad more balanced and filling.

Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on This Delightful Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad

The Mediterranean loaded French fry salad recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The creamy yogurt sauce with hints of garlic and lemon perfectly complements the crispy and seasoned fries. The addition of chickpeas, cucumber, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and feta cheese adds a refreshing and savory element to the dish. The use of zesty seasoning enhances the overall taste, creating a harmonious blend of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. This recipe offers a unique and satisfying twist on traditional salads, making it a versatile and enjoyable dish for any occasion.

Enhance Your Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Create a colorful and flavorful assortment of grilled vegetables on skewers to complement the Mediterranean loaded french fry salad. The smoky char and natural sweetness of the vegetables will add a delightful contrast to the creamy yogurt sauce and crispy fries.

Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers: Prepare a batch of savory Mediterranean stuffed bell peppers to serve alongside the loaded french fry salad. The combination of seasoned ground meat, rice, and aromatic herbs will provide a satisfying and hearty accompaniment to the dish.

Fruit Salad with Citrus Dressing: Whip up a refreshing fruit salad with a zesty citrus dressing to balance out the richness of the loaded french fry salad. The vibrant colors and juicy sweetness of the assorted fruits will provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the main dish.

Delicious Alternatives to Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad

Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use a mixture of ground lamb, rice, tomatoes, and spices to stuff bell peppers, then bake until tender. Top with a dollop of tzatziki sauce for a delicious Mediterranean twist.

Greek Chicken Gyros: Marinate chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and Greek spices, then grill until cooked through. Serve in warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce, tomatoes, onions, and lettuce for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Combine diced mango, avocado, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing and vibrant salsa. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled fish or chicken for a burst of tropical flavor.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and salt, then roast until tender and slightly caramelized. This simple and elegant side dish pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Ideal Appetizer and Dessert Combinations for Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a mouthwatering appetizer by stuffing large mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Whip up a tropical-inspired appetizer by coating shrimp in a crispy coconut breading and frying until golden brown. Serve with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce for a delightful flavor combination.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, warm chocolate lava cake with a gooey, molten center that oozes out with every bite. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of hot and cold textures.

Tiramisu: Create a classic tiramisu with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese, dusted with rich cocoa powder for a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness. Garnish with chocolate shavings for an elegant touch.

Why trust this Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors and classic comfort food. The yogurt sauce brings a creamy and tangy element, while the crispy fries provide a satisfying crunch. The use of chickpeas adds plant-based protein, and the fresh cucumbers and tomatoes contribute a refreshing touch. With the addition of feta cheese and aromatic dill, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making it a trustworthy choice for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Want to share your tips, tricks, and tweaks for this Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the discussion!

FAQ:

What type of yogurt should I use for the yogurt sauce?

You should use full-fat Greek yogurt for the yogurt sauce. It provides a creamy and rich texture that complements the flavors of the Mediterranean loaded French fry salad.

Can I use a different type of potato for the fries?

While russet potatoes work best for this recipe due to their starchy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes as an alternative.

How long can I store the yogurt sauce?

The yogurt sauce can be refrigerated for up to 1 week, so you can make it ahead of time for convenience.

Can I bake the fries instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the fries in the oven as a healthier alternative. Simply toss the potato slices in a bit of olive oil and bake at 425°F until they are crispy and golden brown.

Can I customize the toppings in the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences. You can add or substitute ingredients such as olives, roasted red peppers, or grilled chicken to make it your own.