Herbed Potato Salad: A Bright Twist for Summer BBQs

There’s nothing quite like the vibrant burst of flavors that comes from a fresh Herbed Potato Salad on a warm summer day. As the grill fires up and friends gather, this salad serves as the perfect companion to your favorite barbecue staples. I first crafted this recipe during a sun-soaked afternoon picnic, wanting something that felt classic yet exciting. With creamy mayo, tangy Dijon mustard, and a fragrant medley of herbs like dill, parsley, and chives, it transforms the traditional potato salad into something truly memorable.

Imagine the soft Yukon Gold potatoes enveloped in a light, zesty dressing, each bite inviting you into a world of balance and freshness. Whether you’re bringing a dish to a potluck or simply craving a satisfying side, this Herbed Potato Salad caters to all occasions. Plus, it’s gluten-free and comes together effortlessly, allowing more time for enjoying the sun and less in the kitchen! Let’s dive into how to whip up this delightful dish that everyone will love.

Why Is Herbed Potato Salad Perfect for Summer?

Vibrant Flavors: The combination of fresh herbs and zesty Dijon mustard elevates classic potato salad, ensuring it’s anything but ordinary.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for summer gatherings, BBQs, and potlucks, this dish appeals to all tastes.
Quick and Easy: With simple prep steps, you’ll have this delicious side ready in no time.
Gluten-Free Delight: Enjoy worry-free with this naturally gluten-free recipe that’s suitable for various diets.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the day before to enhance flavor; it only gets better! Dive into your next gathering with this refreshing Herbed Potato Salad that will impress every guest!

Herbed Potato Salad Ingredients

• A delightful mix for your Herbed Potato Salad.

For the Salad

  • Yukon Gold Potatoes – The ideal choice for a creamy texture that holds up beautifully in salad.
  • Kosher Salt – Essential for boiling the potatoes to enhance their natural flavor.
  • Red Onion – Adds a crunchy texture and sharpness; shallots can provide a milder taste.

For the Dressing

  • Mayonnaise – Brings creaminess to the salad; swap in vegan mayo for a dairy-free alternative.
  • Greek Yogurt – Lightens the mayo while adding a tangy kick; consider non-dairy yogurt if preferred.
  • White Wine Vinegar – Offers bright acidity to balance flavors; apple cider vinegar works well as a substitute.
  • Dijon Mustard – Delivers a zesty kick; try whole grain mustard for a textured twist.

For the Freshness

  • Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley – Introduces vibrant herbal notes; cilantro can be a fun substitute for a different flavor.
  • Fresh Dill – Adds an aromatic flair to the salad; use dried dill in smaller amounts if needed.
  • Chives – Provide a mild onion flavor; green onions can serve as an excellent replacement.

For Seasoning

  • Black Pepper – Enhances the overall flavor of the salad; freshly ground offers the best taste.
  • Celery (optional) – For added crunch, diced celery can be folded in for extra texture.

How to Make Herbed Potato Salad

  1. Prepare Potatoes: In a large saucepan, combine Yukon Gold potatoes with 2 tablespoons of kosher salt and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25-30 minutes until tender.

  2. Steam Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and place the colander over the pot; cover with a kitchen towel and let them steam for 15-20 minutes to ensure a fluffy texture.

  3. Make Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, parsley, dill, black pepper, and additional salt to taste. Aim for a creamy and zesty dressing.

  4. Combine Ingredients: Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them into 2-inch chunks and place into a large bowl. Pour the dressing over warm potatoes and mix gently to coat evenly.

  5. Add Onions: Fold in the chopped red onion (and celery if desired) for added crunch. Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least a few hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.

  6. Serve: Enjoy your Herbed Potato Salad cold or at room temperature for a refreshing side dish during summer gatherings.

Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs before serving for an extra pop of color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Herbed Potato Salad

What to Serve with Herbed Potato Salad?

As the sun shines and the grill smokes, creating the perfect backdrop for a delightful meal, it’s essential to pair your Herbed Potato Salad with the right accompaniments for a harmonious spread.

  • Grilled Chicken: Juicy, marinated grilled chicken brings a smoky flavor that complements the tangy salad wonderfully.
  • BBQ Ribs: The rich, meaty taste of BBQ ribs creates a delicious contrast with the freshness of the salad.
  • Fresh Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn adds a crunchy element that brightens every bite and enhances the summer vibe.
  • Caprese Skewers: These skewers, with their juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, bring a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with the herbs in your salad.
  • Garden Veggie Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh vegetables, served with a light dip, provides a crunchy texture to balance the creaminess of the potato salad.
  • Lemonade Spritzers: A cool and zesty drink that refreshes your palate, complementing the flavors of the meal and inviting laughter and conversation.
  • Brownie Sundae: Indulge in a warm brownie topped with ice cream for dessert; the rich and decadent treat finishes the meal on a sweet note, leaving guests with a smile.
  • Sparkling Water with Citrus: A bubbly drink served alongside the meal adds a touch of elegance and refreshment, making your summertime dining even more enjoyable.

Tips for the Best Herbed Potato Salad

  • Steam for Fluffiness: Allow the potatoes to steam after boiling; this technique helps achieve a fluffy texture instead of a soggy one.

  • Chill to Enhance Flavor: Make your Herbed Potato Salad a day ahead; chilling allows the flavors to develop, resulting in a more harmonious taste.

  • Cut Uniformly: Dice potatoes into even chunks for consistent cooking and better presentation; this ensures all pieces absorb dressing equally.

  • Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper after mixing; flavors can change once chilled, so be ready to enhance it.

  • Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to try different fresh herbs in your salad; a mix of dill, basil, or cilantro can offer exciting and unique flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Herbed Potato Salad

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. The flavors meld beautifully when refrigerated!

Make-Ahead: Prepare your Herbed Potato Salad a day in advance to enhance the taste; just remember to chill it well before serving.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, but note the texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating: Serve cold straight from the fridge for the best experience; if desired, you can bring to room temperature before enjoying.

Herbed Potato Salad Variations

Make your Herbed Potato Salad even more exciting with these fun twists and swaps that cater to your taste buds.

  • Dairy-Free: Substitute mayo and Greek yogurt with vegan mayo and non-dairy yogurt for a delicious dairy-free option.
  • Herb Swap: Use fresh basil or mint instead of parsley for a unique flavor profile that brings freshness to summer gatherings.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to amp up the heat and excite your palate.
  • Mustard Variety: Try spicy brown or honey mustard for added depth and sweetness; it’s a delightful departure from the traditional Dijon.
  • Crunch Factor: Fold in chopped cucumbers or bell peppers for an extra crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.
  • Nutty Flavor: Toss in toasted walnuts or slivered almonds for an added layer of texture and a nutty twist to the classic.
  • Sweet Surprise: Incorporate diced apples or grapes for a sweet element that beautifully complements the savory flavors.
  • Mediterranean Style: Add feta cheese and kalamata olives for a Mediterranean flair that transforms your potato salad into something extraordinary.

With these easy variations, each batch of Herbed Potato Salad can be something special and tailored just for you!

Make Ahead Options

These Herbed Potato Salad preparations are perfect for meal prepping and will save you invaluable time during busy summer days! You can easily chop and boil the Yukon Gold potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dressing, made from mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and herbs, can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; just keep it sealed to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, combine the cooled potatoes with the dressing and fold in the red onion (or celery) before chilling for at least a few hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring your Herbed Potato Salad is just as delicious as if freshly made!

Herbed Potato Salad

Herbed Potato Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes are best for Herbed Potato Salad?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choice for this Herbed Potato Salad. They provide a creamy texture and hold their shape well when cooked. If you prefer something different, red potatoes work as an excellent alternative, offering a slightly waxy texture.


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How should I store leftover Herbed Potato Salad?
You can store your Herbed Potato Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to let it chill well before storing; this helps to meld the flavors beautifully!

Can I freeze Herbed Potato Salad?
Yes, you can freeze your Herbed Potato Salad! Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to a month. However, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To enjoy, simply place it in the fridge to thaw overnight and serve it cold.

What if my potatoes are overcooked?
The more, the merrier in terms of tips! If your potatoes end up overcooked and mushy, try mixing in some freshly diced veggies, like celery or bell peppers, to add crunch and balance the texture. You can also fold in some additional dressing to help bind it all together, so it feels more cohesive.

Can I make Herbed Potato Salad vegan-friendly?
Very much! Simply swap out the mayonnaise for a vegan alternative and use non-dairy yogurt. This will help maintain the creamy texture while making it suitable for a vegan diet. You can also ensure that any other ingredients, like mustard or vinegar, are free from animal products.

Herbed Potato Salad

Herbed Potato Salad: A Bright Twist for Summer BBQs

Enjoy a vibrant and gluten-free Herbed Potato Salad that adds a fresh twist to your summer BBQs.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Steaming Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: LUNCH
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold Potatoes The ideal choice for a creamy texture
  • 2 tablespoons Kosher Salt Essential for boiling the potatoes
  • 1 medium Red Onion Adds crunch and sharpness
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Brings creaminess; can use vegan mayo
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Lightens mayo with a tangy kick
  • 2 tablespoons White Wine Vinegar Offers bright acidity
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Delivers a zesty kick
For the Freshness
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley Introduces vibrant herbal notes
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Dill Adds aromatic flair
  • 1/4 cup Chives Provides a mild onion flavor
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Enhances overall flavor
  • 1 stalk Celery Optional for added crunch

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Kitchen towel

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large saucepan, combine Yukon Gold potatoes with kosher salt and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25-30 minutes until tender.
  2. Drain the potatoes and place the colander over the pot; cover with a kitchen towel and let them steam for 15-20 minutes for a fluffy texture.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, parsley, dill, black pepper, and additional salt to taste.
  4. Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them into 2-inch chunks and place into a large bowl. Pour the dressing over warm potatoes and mix gently.
  5. Fold in the chopped red onion (and celery if desired). Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least a few hours or overnight.
  6. Serve cold or at room temperature, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Chilling the salad enhances flavor; can be made a day ahead.

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