Name: German Potato Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs Yukon Gold Potatoes; 0.5 lb Bacon (diced); 1 cup Yellow Onion (finely chopped); 0.5 cup Apple Cider Vinegar; 0.5 cup Vegetable Broth; 0.25 cup Dijon Mustard; 0.25 cup Sugar; 2 tbsp Butter

Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been a staple in my family for, well, as long as I can remember. This isn’t your mayo-drenched, picnic-table potato salad. Oh no, this is a German Potato Salad Recipe., warm, tangy, and just bursting with flavor. Think of it as the sophisticated cousin of your usual potato salad, the one that shows up to the party wearing a stylish scarf and tells the best stories. It’s the kind of dish that evokes memories of family gatherings, laughter around the dinner table, and that cozy feeling you get when you’re surrounded by loved ones. It’s just so incredibly simple to make, but the flavors are unbelievably complex – sweet, savory, and a little bit smoky all at once. Prepare to be amazed!

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

What is German potato salad?

German Potato Salad, at its heart, is a potato salad dressed with a warm, vinegar-based dressing instead of mayonnaise. Think of it as a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in a glorious harmony of sweet and savory. It’s essentially boiled potatoes, sliced and tossed with bacon (oh yes, bacon!), onions, and a tangy dressing made from vinegar, sugar, and mustard. The beauty of it is that it’s served warm, which really brings out the flavors and makes it incredibly comforting, especially on a cool day. Some variations include hard-boiled eggs or celery, but my grandma Elsie’s recipe is the classic, stripped-down version that focuses on the essentials. This isn’t some new-fangled culinary creation; it’s been around for generations and is proof that the best things in life are often the simplest.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are some good reasons to fall head-over-heels for this?German Potato Salad Recipe.. First and foremost, the flavor is absolutely addictive. The tangy vinegar dressing perfectly complements the creamy potatoes and the salty bacon, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. It uses everyday ingredients that you probably already have in Your pantry, and it comes together in a snap. Seriously, even on busy weeknights, I can whip this up in under 30 minutes. It’s also incredibly budget-friendly, which is always a bonus! Plus, it’s so versatile. I’ve served it as a side dish with grilled sausages, as a topping for burgers, and even as a light lunch on its own. It’s just one of those recipes that always delivers, no matter what. If you’re a fan of tangy flavors and comforting food, trust me, you’ll adore this. I know I sound biased, but its true! It makes you feel warm inside and tastes delicious.

How to Make German Potato Salad

Quick Overview

Making this German Potato Salad Recipe. is surprisingly straightforward. First, you’ll boil your potatoes until they’re tender but not mushy. While they’re cooking, you’ll fry up some bacon and sauté some onions. Then, you’ll whisk together the vinegar-based dressing. Finally, you’ll combine everything while the potatoes are still warm, allowing them to soak up all that delicious flavor. The trick is to not overcook the potatoes. You want them to hold their shape but still be creamy on the inside. This recipe is a great way to impress your friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Main Salad: If you have a
* 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (Yukon Golds are my favorite because they’re creamy and hold their shape well, but Russets will work in a pinch).
* 6 slices bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces (I always buy thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and substance).
* 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (Vidalia onions are great if you want a sweeter flavor).

For the Dressing:
* 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (This gives it that classic tangy flavor).
* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (You can adjust this to your liking – some people prefer it) * 1 teaspoon toasted almonds (you can also use this as a spread). Some are more tangy, some are sweeter
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (Adds a little zing and helps emulsify the dressing).
* 1/4 teaspoon celery seed (This is optional, but I love the subtle flavor it adds). Don’t skip it if you have it on hand!).
* Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper to taste (Don’t be shy with the pepper!).

What are the steps to

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender but still firm, about 12-15 minutes. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork. Drain the potatoes and set aside. I always do this over the sink because that boiling water can be hot!

Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Onions

While the potatoes are cooking, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. With a slotted spoon, remove the bacon and set aside. Reserving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat. In a skillet. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, celery seed, salt, and pepper. Set aside. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. I always add a pinch of Red Pepper flakes to my recipe. I can’t wait to try it!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the potatoes to the skillet with the onions. Cook for 5 minutes. What is the best dressing for potatoes and onions? Crumble the cooked bacon over the top. If you want potatoes to remain in chunks, be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the German Potato Salad Recipe.Is it good to eat immediately but can be reheated? Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. I usually let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. Yum!

What should I serve it with?

This German Potato salad recipe.Is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Honestly, sometimes I eat it all on its own for lunch! What are some of my favorite serving suggestions?

For a BBQ:Serve with grilled sausages, bratwurst, or burgers. The tangy flavor of potato salad cuts through the richness of the meat perfectly.

For a Picnic:Pack it in a container and take it along to your next picnic. What is a good alternative to mayonnaise-based potato salad?

What’s a good weeknight dinner?Serve it as a side dish with roasted chicken or Pork Chops. What are some of the best ways to add flavor to a meal?

For a Festive Gathering:Add sliced celery or hard-boiled eggs for a heartier salad. What makes this a great addition to any potluck or holiday buffet?

My family loves this potato salad paired with barbeque ribs and corn on the cob. What is the perfect summer trio?

How do you prepare a German potato salad?

What are some tricks to make potato salad perfect? What are the top tips for a successful career?

Potato Choice: Use Yukon Gold potatoes for the best texture and flavor. They’re creamy and hold their shape well when cooked.

Don’t overcook potatoes. Don’tCook the potatoes until they’re tender but still firm. Overcooked potatoes will ruin the texture of the salad.

Bacon Fat:What are some good ways to add bacon fat to a salad? What is the best way to cook bacon fat in a skillet?

Tangy Dressing: Adjust the amount of sugar in the dressing to your liking. Some people prefer a sweeter salad, while others prefer a more tangy one.

Serve Warm: This salad is best served warm. The warm potatoes will soak up all the delicious flavor from the dressing.

Let It Rest: Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. I’ve even made it a day ahead and the flavor is even better!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover German Potato Salad Recipe (which is rare in my house!), here are some tips for storing and reheating it:

Refrigerator Storage: Store the potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s best to let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Reheating: Reheat the potato salad in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.

Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this potato salad, as the potatoes may become mushy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

I always find that the flavors develop and become even more intense the next day, so it’s a great make-ahead dish!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and use a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to sauté the onions. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika to the dressing to mimic the smoky flavor of the bacon.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

While apple cider vinegar is traditional, you can experiment with other types of vinegar. White vinegar or red wine vinegar will work in a pinch, but they will have a slightly different flavor.

Can I add hard-boiled eggs?

Yes, absolutely! Hard-boiled eggs are a great addition to this potato salad. Simply chop them up and add them to the salad along with the bacon.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this potato salad can be made ahead of time. In fact, I find that the flavors develop and become even more intense the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can I add other vegetables?

Sure! Celery, green onions, or even bell peppers would be great additions to this salad. Just be sure to chop them up finely.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this German Potato Salad Recipe a try. It’s a family favorite for a reason, and I know you’ll love it just as much as we do. It’s simple, flavorful, and incredibly comforting – the perfect combination for a delicious side dish. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my coleslaw recipe, its another family favorite. Happy cooking, my friends! And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turns out. I can’t wait to hear your feedback and see your own variations on this classic recipe!

No ratings yet