Name: Creamy Red Potato Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds small red potatoes; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 tablespoons white vinegar; ½ cup red onion, chopped; ½ cup light mayonnaise; ½ cup light sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1 teaspoon garlic salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ¼ cup chopped dill, fresh, divided

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There’s something so comforting about a classic Creamy Red Potato Salad. Every summer, my family gathers in the backyard for barbecues, and this dish never fails to make an appearance. I can still vividly remember my grandmother teaching me how to make it, her hands deftly mixing the creamy dressing with the warm potatoes while she shared stories from her childhood. The blend of flavors—the rich creaminess of the mayonnaise, the tang of vinegar, and the fresh crunch of red onions—always brings back fond memories. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of family and togetherness. Each bite reminds me of sunny afternoons spent laughing and enjoying good food with loved ones. Whether it’s a picnic in the park or a simple dinner at home, this hearty salad is bound to please everyone at the table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
240 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Keto, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl

The Magic of This Creamy Red Potato Salad

A Comforting Classic

There’s a reason why Creamy Red Potato Salad is a staple at gatherings. Its creamy texture and delightful flavors create a comfort food experience that resonates with many of us. I love how this dish brings warmth, just like a hug from a loved one.

Simplicity at its Best

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a potato salad that’s bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of dish where you don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated cooking techniques—just fresh red potatoes and a few pantry staples.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a holiday feast, or a casual picnic, this Creamy Red Potato Salad fits right in. It complements grilled meats wonderfully and adds a refreshing touch to any meal. Plus, it’s an excellent make-ahead option.

Customizable Flavors

While this recipe is delicious as is, it also serves as a fantastic base for experimentation. You can easily add your favorite herbs or spices to tailor it to your taste. Want a little kick? Try adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of paprika for a hint of smokiness.

Great for Leftovers

Leftovers never last long when it comes to this potato salad. But if you happen to have some, they make for a fantastic lunch the next day. The flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even better than the last.

Ingredients Required for Creamy Red Potato Salad

To create a delicious Creamy Red Potato Salad, you need a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in bringing the dish together, ensuring a balance of creaminess, tang, and freshness. The key players include red potatoes, which are perfect for their waxy texture, and a combination of mayonnaise and sour cream for that rich creaminess. Fresh herbs and a hint of vinegar add brightness to the salad, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

3 pounds small red potatoes: These potatoes hold their shape well after cooking, making them ideal for salads.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
2 tablespoons white vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor that cuts through the creaminess.
½ cup red onion, chopped: Provides a nice crunch and sharpness to balance the dish.
½ cup light mayonnaise: Contributes to the creamy texture of the salad.
½ cup light sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and creaminess.
1 teaspoon garlic salt: Infuses the salad with a subtle garlic flavor.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
¼ cup chopped dill, fresh, divided: Brings a fresh herbal note that complements the potatoes beautifully.

Recipe Steps for Creamy Red Potato Salad

Making Creamy Red Potato Salad is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time. Just remember to keep an eye on the potatoes while they cook; you want them perfectly tender but not falling apart. Let’s dive into the cooking process!

Start by placing the small red potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add the kosher salt to the pot to flavor the potatoes as they cook. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and let the potatoes cook for about 20 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a fork easily slides into their flesh, and the skins start to wrinkle. This ensures they’ll be soft enough to mash.
After cooking, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool for a few minutes. Once they’re cool enough to handle, cut them into halves and then into quarters, placing them into a large mixing bowl.
While the potatoes are still warm, drizzle them with the white vinegar. This helps to infuse the flavor into the potatoes.
In a separate bowl, mix together the light mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, garlic salt, freshly ground black pepper, and half of the chopped dill. Stir until well combined.
Pour the creamy dressing over the warm potato mixture. Add the chopped red onion and the remaining dill, then stir gently to combine everything. Be careful not to overmix; you want the potatoes to remain somewhat chunky.
Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. It’s best to let the salad chill for at least 2 to 4 hours, or even overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash of water or more sour cream to loosen it up.
Serve the Creamy Red Potato Salad cold or at room temperature. It’s a perfect side dish for any summer meal.

Things Worth Knowing

Potato Selection: Choose small red potatoes for the best texture. They hold their shape well and have a creamy mouthfeel.
Cooking Time: Don’t rush the boiling process. It’s essential for the potatoes to be tender without disintegrating.
Chilling Time: Allow the salad to chill for a few hours or overnight. This helps the flavors meld and develop.
Mixing Method: Be gentle when mixing the potatoes with the dressing. You want to maintain some chunkiness for texture.

Recipe Notes about Creamy Red Potato Salad

This Creamy Red Potato Salad is sure to be a hit, but a few tips can help you make it even better! Here are some handy notes to consider when preparing this dish.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the texture of the potatoes and dressing may change.
Pairing: This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile side dish for any summer meal.
Fresh Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or chives for a different flavor profile.
Variations: Add diced celery or diced pickles for extra crunch and flavor.

Perfect Matches for Creamy Red Potato Salad

This Creamy Red Potato Salad is not just a dish on its own; it complements various meals and occasions perfectly. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

Grilled Meats: This salad is fantastic alongside grilled chicken or steak. The creaminess balances the smoky flavors wonderfully.
Picnics: Pack it in your picnic basket to enjoy alongside sandwiches or wraps. It offers a satisfying side that won’t wilt in the sun.
Barbecues: A quintessential addition to any barbecue spread, it pairs beautifully with burgers and hot dogs.
Family Gatherings: Serve it at family reunions or potlucks, where it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Seasonal Events: Perfect for summer gatherings and outdoor parties, this dish is light enough for hot weather yet filling.
Storage Tips: For best results, keep the salad refrigerated until ready to serve, especially on warm days.

FAQ

Absolutely! In fact, making Creamy Red Potato Salad ahead of time is recommended. The flavors meld beautifully when the salad sits in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight. Just cover it tightly and keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve. This makes it a perfect dish for potlucks or get-togethers.

When making potato salad, I recommend using small red potatoes. They have a waxy texture that helps them hold their shape, and they’re creamy when cooked. Other types like Yukon Gold can also work well, but red potatoes are my personal favorite for this salad.

You can store leftovers of Creamy Red Potato Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, the flavors will continue to develop, so it may taste even better the next day! Just give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the texture.

Definitely! One of the great things about Creamy Red Potato Salad is its versatility. You can add ingredients like diced celery, chopped pickles, or even hard-boiled eggs for extra flavor and texture. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

Conclusion

The Creamy Red Potato Salad is a classic dish that truly stands the test of time, bringing comfort and joy to any gathering. Its creamy texture and delightful flavors make it a favorite among family and friends. I encourage you to try making it for your next cookout or picnic, and I promise it will be a hit! Embrace the ease of preparation and the joy it brings to your table.