Red Potato Salad

Creating a flavorful and satisfying red potato salad can elevate any gathering or meal. From summer picnics to family barbecues, this dish captures the essence of good times and delicious food. The star here is the red potato, known for its creamy texture and vibrant color. By pairing it with a zesty dill dressing, you create a mixture that’s not just tasty but has the perfect balance of textures, from the tender potatoes to the crunchy celery and the crisp red onions. Trust me, every bite will leave you wanting more!

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This Red Potato Salad
• Ingredients
• Cooking the Potatoes
• Boil the Potatoes
• Preparing the Salad
• Drain and Season Potatoes
• Add Vegetables
• Making the Dressing
• Whisk Together Ingredients
• Combining the Salad
• Mix Dressing with Salad
• Chilling the Salad
• Refrigerate Before Serving
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Storage Tips
• Pairing Ideas
• FAQs
• More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

In this easy-to-follow recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to make a classic red potato salad that’s sure to impress. With ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen, you’ll find that putting this dish together is a breeze. Even better, it can be prepared ahead of time, making it a go-to for busy hosts. So, grab your apron, and let’s get started on this delightful red potato salad!

Why This Recipe Works

Creating a flavorful and satisfying red potato salad can elevate any gathering or meal. This recipe harnesses the natural creaminess of red potatoes, complemented by a zesty and tangy dill dressing. The combination of textures – tender potatoes, crunchy celery, and crisp red onions – not only excites the palate but also provides a balanced and refreshing dish.

Why You’ll Love This Red Potato Salad

This red potato salad is not just a side dish; it’s a total crowd-pleaser! Ideal for potlucks and barbecues, it offers a nostalgic taste of summer gatherings. With its easy preparation and ability to be made ahead of time, it’s perfect for both busy hosts and home cooks looking to impress. Plus, the creamy dressing with fresh dill brings a delicious twist that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds small red potatoes
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• 1 stalk celery, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup mayonnaise (regular or light)
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped

Cooking the Potatoes

Boil the Potatoes

Start by placing the small red potatoes in a large saucepan or pot. Cover them with water by about 1 inch. Bring the water to a rolling boil and let them cook until tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. You can test their doneness by sliding a fork into one; they should feel soft but not mushy.

Preparing the Salad

Drain and Season Potatoes

Once cooked, carefully drain the potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. To enhance their flavor, season them with fresh lemon juice right away while they still warm.

Add Vegetables

Next, gently fold in the diced red onion and finely chopped celery. This step is crucial to ensure an even distribution throughout the potatoes, allowing each bite to deliver a balanced flavor.

Making the Dressing

Whisk Together Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), fresh dill, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and fully blended. This dressing is the key to bringing the red potato salad to life!

Combining the Salad

Mix Dressing with Salad

Now it’s time to pour the creamy dressing over the potato mixture. Gently stir to coat everything thoroughly without breaking the potatoes. You want them to stay chunky for that satisfying bite.

Chilling the Salad

Refrigerate Before Serving

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. It’s best to refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, but for even better flavors, leave it overnight. This chilling time allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this red potato salad chilled as a side dish to your favorite grilled meats or as part of a delightful summer picnic spread. Consider pairing it with fresh herbs or additional slices of lemon for that extra splash of zest.

Tips for Success

• Choose Firm Potatoes: Make sure to select fresh, firm red potatoes for the best texture. Soft or sprouted potatoes can lead to a mushy salad.
• Taste and Adjust: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning in the dressing to suit your tastes. Extra dill can really enhance the flavor!
• Make Ahead: This salad is an excellent choice for meal prep as it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge overnight.

Variations

• Herbed Twist: Instead of dill, try substituting with fresh parsley or chives for a different herbaceous flavor.
• Add-In Options: Consider adding chopped hard-boiled eggs, crispy bacon bits, or even chopped pickles for a delicious layer of taste.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftover red potato salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it a tasty treat for days to come. Just be sure to give it a quick stir before serving!

Pairing Ideas

This red potato salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or burgers, providing a creamy contrast to smoky flavors. Complement it with a light green salad for a fresh touch that balances the meal nicely.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, while red potatoes are best for this recipe, you can swap them for Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes. Each variety will bring a different flavor and texture to the salad.

2. Is this red potato salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! All ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. How long can I store the potato salad?
You can keep the red potato salad in your refrigerator for up to 3 days, provided it’s sealed in an airtight container.

4. Can I freeze potato salad?
Freezing isn’t recommended for potato salad, as the texture may change once thawed, resulting in a mushy dish.

5. How do I make this salad healthier?
If you’re looking for a lighter version, simply swap full-fat mayonnaise and sour cream with Greek yogurt. It keeps the creaminess without the extra calories.

This red potato salad is a delightful addition to any meal, combining comfort with freshness. Whether you’re bringing it to a summer gathering or serving it at home, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the blend of flavors, the crunch from fresh ingredients, and the ease of preparation—this recipe will become a cherished favorite in your cooking repertoire!

More Easy Main Dishes Recipes:

• One Pan Lemon Herb Chicken
• Asiago Lemon Risotto with Grilled Garlic Asparagus
• Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing
• Marinated Grilled Chicken

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print