Tex Mex Potato Salad
When it comes to picnic potlucks and summer barbecues, nothing brings a smile to my face like a bowl of . This dish has a way of making any gathering feel like a celebration. I distinctly remember one sunny afternoon, surrounded by friends, laughter, and the tantalizing aroma of grilled delights wafting through the air. As we spread out our blankets on the grass, I unveiled my freshly made . The vibrant colors and enticing flavors drew everyone in, and before I knew it, the bowl was nearly empty! The combination of creamy and tangy, along with the unexpected kick from chipotle, was a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive holiday meal, this salad has become my go-to recipe that never fails to impress and delight.
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
20 mins
15 mins
Easy
320 kcal
10 g
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free
16 g
Large Pot, Frying Pan, Peeler, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife
Why This Tex Mex Potato Salad Stands Out
Flavor Explosion
One of the standout features of is its incredible flavor profile. The creamy Ranch dressing paired with the zesty chipotle pepper creates a delightful contrast that tantalizes the taste buds. Each bite is a harmonious blend of tanginess and spice, making it a truly unique side dish.
Colorful Presentation
Visually, the dish is a feast for the eyes. The bright colors of cherry tomatoes, green onions, and corn kernels add a cheerful touch that makes it perfect for any occasion. Who wouldn’t want to dive into a bowl of such a vibrant salad?
Versatile and Adaptable
can easily be adapted to suit various palates. Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables or swap out ingredients based on what’s in season. The beauty of this dish is that it welcomes creativity and accommodates dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it.
Make-Ahead Magic
This salad is a fantastic make-ahead option. Preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing its taste and making your hosting duties a breeze. Chill it overnight, and you’re all set for your gathering!
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a holiday gathering, or just a casual lunch, fits right in. Its versatility makes it suitable for a variety of occasions, ensuring it’s always a hit.
Comfort Food with a Twist
This dish brings the comfort of traditional potato salad while infusing it with bold Mexican flavors. It’s a perfect example of how comfort food can evolve, offering something new and exciting while still feeling familiar.
What Goes Into Tex Mex Potato Salad
At the heart of every great dish are its ingredients, and is no exception. The combination of creamy, spicy, and fresh elements creates a delightful harmony that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the comforting potatoes to the crunchy corn, ensuring a well-rounded flavor profile.
- ¾ cup Ranch dressing: This creamy base adds richness and a tangy flavor that complements the potatoes beautifully.
- ¾ cup light mayonnaise: Keeps the salad creamy without being overly heavy.
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (chopped finely, canned): Introduces a smoky heat that takes the flavor to the next level.
- 1 small onion (chopped): Provides a mild bite and sweetness.
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances the overall flavors of the dish.
- 2 pounds potatoes (peeled and cubed): The star ingredient that provides heartiness and comfort.
- 6 large eggs (hard-boiled, coarsely chopped): Adds protein and richness to the salad.
- 1 cup black beans (canned): Contributes a hearty texture and additional flavor.
- 1 cup corn kernels (canned): Brings sweetness and bright color to the dish.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (quartered): Offers a burst of freshness and juiciness.
- 2 green onions (chopped): Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
- tortilla chips (optional): For serving, these add a delightful crunch to each bite.
Making Tex Mex Potato Salad
Creating is a breeze, and the steps are straightforward. Let me guide you through the process, so you can impress your friends and family with this delicious dish. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll end up with a delightful salad that everyone will love.
- Start by taking 2 pounds of potatoes and peel them. Cut them into cubes, about one inch in size. Place the cubed potatoes in a large saucepan. Fill the saucepan with enough water to cover the potatoes completely. Add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the flavor during cooking. Bring the water to a rolling boil and let the potatoes cook for about 15 minutes or until they are fork-tender. You’ll know they’re done when a fork easily pierces through. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and place them in a bowl to cool slightly.
- While the potatoes are cooling, grab a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine ¾ cup of Ranch dressing, ¾ cup of light mayonnaise, and 1 chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. Stir these ingredients together until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. This creamy mixture will form the base of your salad, so make sure it’s well combined.
- Next, add 1 small chopped onion to the dressing mixture. Mix it in well. If you like, you can adjust the seasoning by adding a little salt to taste. The onion will add a delightful crunch and sweetness to the salad.
- Now, take the cooled potatoes and gently fold them into the dressing mixture. Be careful not to mash the potatoes; you want them to remain intact. Next, add 6 hard-boiled eggs that have been coarsely chopped, along with 1 cup of canned black beans and 1 cup of canned corn kernels. Stir everything together gently until all the ingredients are coated in the dressing.
- Once combined, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Fold in 1 cup of quartered cherry tomatoes and 2 chopped green onions. These ingredients will add freshness and color to your salad. Mix them in carefully to avoid breaking the tomatoes.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator to chill. It’s best to let the salad sit for at least 6 hours, but if you can, let it chill overnight. This chilling process allows the flavors to meld and intensify, making it even more delicious.
- When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir to recombine any ingredients that may have settled. If desired, you can top it off with additional cherry tomatoes and chopped green onions for a fresh look. If you like some crunch, serve it with tortilla chips on the side.
- Enjoy your at your next picnic, barbecue, or family dinner. Everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the taste of your salad.
- Don’t rush the chilling time: Allowing the salad to chill helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Customize the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of chipotle pepper to suit your taste!
- Presentation matters: A colorful presentation can make your dish even more appealing.
Substitutions and Tips
Here are some helpful tips and substitutions to ensure your turns out perfectly every time. Whether you need to adapt the recipe or just want to make the most of your ingredients, these pointers will guide you!
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop even after a day!
- Freezing: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the texture of the potatoes and eggs may change once thawed.
- Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a great side dish for summer meals.
- Variations: Consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick!
- Fresh herbs: Adding fresh cilantro or parsley can enhance the flavor and add a nice touch.
Accompaniments for Tex Mex Potato Salad
When it comes to serving , think about what will enhance your meal. Here are some great accompaniments that will make your dining experience memorable:
- Grilled meats: This salad is the perfect side for grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp. The smoky flavors complement the salad beautifully.
- Fresh greens: Pair with a light green salad to add a refreshing contrast to the creamy potato salad.
- Tacos: For a fun twist, serve this salad alongside your favorite tacos to create a vibrant Mexican feast.
- Chips and salsa: Enhance the Tex-Mex theme by serving alongside crispy tortilla chips and fresh salsa.
- Summer gatherings: This dish is a hit at barbecues, potlucks, and family reunions, making it a versatile choice for any summer occasion.
- Picnics: Perfect for outdoor dining, travels well and is sure to satisfy everyone.
FAQ
Conclusion
is truly a special dish that combines the comfort of traditional flavors with a kick of exciting spices. It’s perfect for gatherings and casual meals alike, effortlessly bringing people together over delicious food. I encourage you to try making this salad the next time you’re planning a get-together or just want to enjoy a refreshing side dish. You won’t be disappointed!
Tex Mex Potato Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the potatoes in a large saucepan, covered in enough boiling water, for about 15 minutes or until fork tender. Drain them and let them cool slightly.
- While the potatoes are cooking you can prepare the dressing. In a very large bowl, combine the Ranch dressing, mayonnaise and the chopped chipotle pepper. Stir in the onion and season with a bit of salt if necessary.
- To the bowl with the dressing, add the potatoes, chopped boiled eggs, black beans and corn. Stir gently to make sure all the ingredients are coated in the dressing.
- Top with cherry tomatoes and green onions. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill for 6 to 24 hours before serving. You can wait to top with tomatoes and green onions until ready to serve.
- Serve with tortilla chips, if preferred.
Notes
- Most grocery stores should sell chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. If you can’t find it, any canned chiles plus chipotle seasoning will work.
- Nutritional information does not include tortilla chips.
