Skordalia – Greek Garlic & Potato Dip

Name: Skordalia - Greek Garlic & Potato Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves approximately four people
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pound Russet potatoes; 4 cloves garlic; ⅔ cup blanched almonds; ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons white apple vinegar; Salt and black pepper to taste

Published: October 31, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delicious dip in just 25 minutes.
Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and toasted almonds provides a deep, savory taste that elevates any dish.
Versatile Use: Perfect as a dip for veggies, a spread for bread, or an accompaniment to grilled meats and salads.
Healthy Option: Made with wholesome ingredients like potatoes and olive oil, this dip is both nutritious and satisfying.
Great for Sharing: Ideal for parties or gatherings, skordalia adds a touch of Greek flair that your guests will love.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable. Below are the essential tools needed to create your skordalia.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Food processor
Pot
Skillet
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Food processor: This tool simplifies blending the ingredients into a smooth consistency, making it essential for achieving the perfect texture.
Pot: A good-quality pot helps evenly cook the potatoes until they are tender, ensuring they blend well into the dip.
Skillet: Toasting almonds in a skillet enhances their flavor, adding depth to the overall taste of your skordalia.

Ingredients

To prepare Skordalia – Greek Garlic & Potato Dip, you’ll need the following fresh ingredients:

For the Dip

1 pound Russet potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
⅔ cup blanched almonds
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
2 tablespoons white apple vinegar
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Water (as needed)
A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
Fresh dill sprigs (oregano or parsley)
Lemon wedges

How to Make Skordalia – Greek Garlic & Potato Dip

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Place the potato chunks in a pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat. Then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until the potatoes are very tender, about 15–20 minutes.

Step 2: Drain and Dry

Drain the potatoes in a colander. Let them sit in the pot for a few moments to dry out slightly before proceeding.

Step 3: Toast the Almonds

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the blanched almonds until they turn lightly golden, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let them cool completely.

Step 4: Process Garlic and Almonds

In your food processor, combine the minced garlic and cooled toasted almonds. Process until finely ground for an even texture.

Step 5: Add Citrus Flavors

Pour in the lemon juice and white apple vinegar into the processor with garlic and almonds. Continue processing until everything is blended smoothly together.

Step 6: Incorporate Potatoes

Add cooked potato chunks to the food processor in batches. Blend until smooth; add water as needed to achieve desired consistency.

Step 7: Drizzle in Olive Oil

With your food processor running, gradually drizzle in extra virgin olive oil until fully incorporated into your mixture.

Step 8: Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. If skordalia seems too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until reaching desired consistency.

Step 9: Serve Your Skordalia

Transfer skordalia to a serving bowl. Drizzle with additional olive oil on top and garnish with fresh dill sprigs and lemon wedges before serving.

How to Serve Skordalia – Greek Garlic & Potato Dip

Skordalia is a versatile dip that can elevate any meal. Its creamy texture and bold garlic flavor make it perfect for various serving options. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this Greek classic.

As a Dip

Serve skordalia with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a healthy snack.
Pair with pita chips or toasted bread for a crunchy contrast.

As a Spread

Use it as a spread on sandwiches or wraps, adding an extra layer of flavor to your lunch.
It also works wonderfully on grilled meats or roasted vegetables, enhancing their taste.

Accompaniment to Meats

Serve skordalia alongside grilled chicken or beef, providing a zesty complement to the savory flavors.
It pairs well with lamb dishes, adding richness to each bite.

On a Cheese Platter

Include skordalia in a cheese platter as an alternative dip, offering guests something unique and flavorful.
Pair with hard cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda for an exquisite combination.

How to Perfect Skordalia – Greek Garlic & Potato Dip

To achieve the best texture and flavor in your skordalia, consider these helpful tips.

Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes work best due to their starchy content, resulting in creaminess.
Toast the almonds: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor of almonds, making your dip richer and more aromatic.
Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper based on personal preference for perfect seasoning.
Control thickness: If your skordalia is too thick, add water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Let it chill: Chilling skordalia for at least 30 minutes before serving allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Skordalia – Greek Garlic & Potato Dip

Skordalia pairs well with various side dishes that complement its garlicky goodness. Here are some excellent choices:

Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese that balances the richness of skordalia.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant enhance the dip’s flavors while adding healthy elements to your meal.
Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory bites filled with rice and herbs offer a delightful contrast in texture to the creamy dip.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a flavorful base that pairs beautifully with the garlic notes of skordalia.
Hummus: This chickpea spread adds another layer of flavor and variety when served alongside skordalia on a platter.
Olive Tapenade: A briny olive spread brings a salty punch that complements the smoothness of skordalia perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Skordalia – Greek Garlic & Potato Dip, it’s easy to make a few common missteps. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Using cold potatoes: Cold potatoes can lead to a lumpy texture. Always use warm, freshly cooked potatoes for the best results.
Over-processing the dip: If you process the ingredients too long, the dip can become gummy. Stop processing once everything is combined and smooth.
Ignoring seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can leave your dip bland. Taste your skordalia as you go, adjusting seasoning to enhance flavors.
Not toasting almonds: Raw almonds can lack flavor. Toast them lightly before adding to the dip for a richer taste.
Skipping garnishes: A drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs elevate the dish’s appearance and flavor. Don’t forget these finishing touches!
Using low-quality olive oil: The quality of olive oil directly affects the dip’s taste. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Skordalia – Greek Garlic & Potato Dip

Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
Best used within 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.

Reheating Skordalia – Greek Garlic & Potato Dip

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Skordalia – Greek Garlic & Potato Dip:

What is Skordalia – Greek Garlic & Potato Dip?

Skordalia is a traditional Greek dip made from garlic, potatoes, and nuts, blended into a creamy spread perfect for dipping or spreading.

Can I customize my Skordalia?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like roasted red peppers or herbs to personalize your skordalia according to your taste preferences.

How do I make Skordalia vegan?

This recipe is naturally plant-based as it doesn’t include any animal products. Enjoy it as is!

What should I serve with Skordalia?

Skordalia pairs wonderfully with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as part of a Mediterranean platter alongside other dips and spreads.

How spicy is Skordalia?

The spice level depends on how much garlic you use; adjust according to your preference. For less heat, reduce the garlic amount slightly.

Final Thoughts

Skordalia – Greek Garlic & Potato Dip is not only flavorful but also versatile. Its creamy texture makes it perfect for various occasions—from appetizers to side dishes. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or herbs for unique variations that suit your palate. Give this delightful recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!

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