This Easy Old-Fashioned German Potato Salad is warm, tangy, and loaded with flavor! Made with potatoes, bacon, and a mustard dressing, it’s a hearty side dish for any meal.
I love making this salad because it comes together quickly and is perfect for gatherings. Plus, who can resist the yummy bacon bits? Just be ready to share—this dish disappears fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are great for this salad as they hold their shape. If you can’t find them, red potatoes or even fingerlings can work, but avoid waxy potatoes for the best texture.
Bacon: I love using the regular kind for that classic flavor, but you can swap in turkey bacon or even a plant-based option if you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian alternative.
Onion: A small yellow onion is perfect here, but feel free to use green onions or shallots for a milder taste. For a twist, try adding some chopped pickles instead for extra tang!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice tanginess, but you could substitute with white vinegar or red wine vinegar if you prefer something different. Just adjust the sweetness to taste since different vinegars have varying flavor profiles.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Potatoes?
Getting the potatoes just right is key to this salad. You want them tender, not mushy! Start by cutting your potatoes into even sizes for consistent cooking.
- Put the potato chunks in a pot and cover with cold water. This helps them cook evenly.
- Add a pinch of salt to the water; it enhances the flavor while boiling.
- Check for doneness after 15 minutes: they should be fork-tender but still firm.
Letting them cool a bit before slicing helps avoid breaking them apart and makes it easier to toss with the dressing later.
Easy Old-Fashioned German Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 pounds small yellow potatoes (Yukon Gold or similar)
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 30 minutes of prep and cooking time. You’ll cook and prepare everything quickly, making this a great side dish that can be served warm or at room temperature. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by placing the potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt for flavor and bring the water to a boil. Let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain them and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Preparing the Bacon:
While your potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the bacon slices. Fry until the bacon is crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels. Keep the bacon drippings in the skillet for extra flavor!
3. Sautéing the Onions:
In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the salad.
4. Making the Dressing:
Next, stir in the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and Dijon mustard into the skillet with the cooked onions. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, just until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is hot. Remember to season with salt and pepper to taste!
5. Combining Ingredients:
Slice the cooled potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them in a large mixing bowl. Pour the hot dressing over the potato slices, and gently toss to coat all the pieces evenly with the dressing.
6. Adding Bacon and Parsley:
Now, crumble the crispy bacon over the potatoes and add the chopped parsley. Toss everything lightly to combine, ensuring the bacon and parsley are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
7. Serving:
Your German potato salad is now ready! Serve it warm or at room temperature for the best flavor. Enjoy this delightful dish alongside your favorite main courses!
This recipe is a warm, hearty salad featuring tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a tangy dressing that brings everything together beautifully. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion—enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, you can also use red potatoes or fingerlings. Just avoid using waxy potatoes as they may not hold up well in the salad.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
If you want to keep the salad vegetarian, simply replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or additional onions for flavor. You could also use smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor that bacon adds.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead! Just make the salad and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days. Just give it a quick toss before serving again.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or enjoy cold. The flavors actually deepen after sitting for a day!
