This Easy German Potato Salad is a tasty twist on a classic dish. It combines warm potatoes, crisp bacon, and tangy vinegar for a delightful flavor that makes your taste buds dance!
It’s super simple to whip up and perfect for picnics or barbecues. I love serving it warm, but even cold it’s still a crowd-pleaser. Who knew veggies could be this fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Choosing small red or Yukon Gold potatoes is great for this dish. They have a creamy texture. If you’re looking for substitutes, try baby potatoes or even fingerling potatoes. Just make sure they’re small enough to hold their shape!
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a nice crunch and flavor. Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon are good substitutes if you want a lighter version. You can also try smoked sausage for a different flavor twist.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tanginess to the salad. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or regular white vinegar can work. Lemon juice can also give a fresh zing in a pinch!
Onion: Yellow onions are perfect for a hint of sweetness. However, if onions aren’t your thing, you can skip them or use green onions for a milder flavor.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and chives brighten the salad. If you don’t have those, dill or scallions can also add a nice touch.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Potatoes?
Cooking potatoes correctly is key for this salad to shine. Follow these steps to ensure they are tender without falling apart:
- Start with cold water: Place potatoes in a pot and cover with salted water before bringing to a boil. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t undercook: Test potatoes with a fork around 15-20 minutes. They should be tender but firm enough to slice without mushiness.
- Drain and cool: After cooking, drain the potatoes and let them cool just a bit before slicing. This makes them easier to handle.
By following these tips, you’ll have a delicious base for your German potato salad!
Easy German Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 pounds small red or Yukon Gold potatoes
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy German potato salad takes about 30 minutes to make. You’ll need around 15-20 minutes to cook the potatoes and an additional 10 minutes to prepare the dressing and mix everything together. It’s quick, simple, and a delightful side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Start by placing the potatoes in a large pot and covering them with salted water. Bring the water to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they’re tender and a fork can easily pierce them, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once done, drain the potatoes and let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until it’s nice and crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain. Keep the bacon fat in the skillet – it adds flavor!
3. Cook the Onion:
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the chopped onion and cook it over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. This adds a wonderful flavor to your salad!
4. Make the Dressing:
Next, stir in the apple cider vinegar, water, granulated sugar, and Dijon mustard into the skillet. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Carefully slice the warm potatoes into thin rounds or bite-sized pieces (as you prefer) and place them in a large bowl. Pour the warm bacon and dressing mixture over the potatoes and gently toss everything together so the potatoes are well coated.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle the crispy cooked bacon pieces, freshly chopped parsley, and chives on top of the potato salad. You can serve it warm or let it cool to room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Easy German Potato Salad!
This tangy, slightly sweet, and savory salad is a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Another Type of Potato?
Yes! While small red or Yukon Gold potatoes are best for this recipe, you can also use baby potatoes or even fingerling potatoes. Just choose sturdier varieties that hold their shape well when cooked.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
If you want a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon. You can use olive oil or vegan butter to sauté the onions for flavor, and consider adding some smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a hint of that delightful smoky taste.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. If you prefer it warm, reheat gently on the stove before serving. If serving cold, allow it to sit at room temperature for a bit before serving to enhance the flavors.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover German potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh the salad, you can add a splash of vinegar or a bit of olive oil before serving again.
