This Easy Red Potato Salad is perfect for summer picnics! Made with tender red potatoes, fresh veggies, and a creamy dressing, it’s both tasty and colorful.
My favorite part? It’s quick to whip up! Just boil the potatoes, mix in some crunchy bits, and chill. Serve it cold and watch it disappear—it’s a crowd-pleaser! 🥔🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Potatoes: These are perfect for potato salad due to their creamy texture and waxy skin. If you can’t find red potatoes, Yukon Golds are a great alternative!
Bacon: I love the smoky flavor that bacon adds, but feel free to use turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option. You can also use crispy chickpeas for crunch without the meat!
Celery: Chopped celery adds crunch and freshness. If you’re not a fan, diced bell peppers or cucumbers can also work nicely.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: This combo makes the salad creamy. You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for a healthy twist—it still gives you that creaminess with extra protein!
Dill: Fresh dill brings a lovely flavor, but if it’s not available, dried dill can work in a pinch. Just use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do You Cook Potatoes Perfectly for a Salad?
Cooking the potatoes just right is key. Overcooking can lead to mushiness, while undercooking means they won’t hold their shape. Follow these simple steps:
- Start with cold water and add a pinch of salt to flavor the potatoes.
- Bring the water to a boil rather than putting the potatoes in boiling water. This ensures even cooking.
- Test with a fork after 12 minutes to check if they’re tender but not falling apart.
- Drain and let them cool slightly before mixing them in the salad to prevent them from soaking up too much dressing.
By following these tips, your potato salad will have the perfect texture!
Easy Red Potato Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds red potatoes, washed and quartered
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious potato salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional hour to chill in the refrigerator. Total time: about 1 hour and 15 minutes! This recipe is perfect for a summer gathering or picnic!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Start by placing the quartered red potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes until they are tender when pierced with a fork, which should take about 12-15 minutes. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Dressing:
While the potatoes are cooling, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Combine All Ingredients:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooled potatoes to the dressing, along with the chopped celery, crumbled bacon, and chopped fresh dill. Gently fold everything together until the potatoes are well-coated in the dressing. Be careful not to mash the potatoes; you want them to remain chunky and intact!
4. Season to Taste:
Give your salad a taste, and adjust the seasoning with any additional salt and pepper if needed. It’s all about your preference!
5. Chill Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the potato salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
When you’re ready to serve, garnish the potato salad with extra fresh dill if you like. Serve it chilled and enjoy your refreshing summer potato salad!
FAQ about Easy Red Potato Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While red potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, Yukon Gold potatoes work wonderfully as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if using larger potatoes.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon. You can add extra veggies like chopped bell peppers or olives for a delightful crunch without compromising flavor!
Can I Prepare This Salad the Night Before?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day ahead! In fact, letting it sit overnight in the fridge allows the flavors to develop even more. Just give it a good stir before serving!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the potatoes may absorb some of the dressing, so you might need to add a touch more mayo or sour cream when serving again!
