This German potato salad is light and tangy, made with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a zesty vinegar dressing. It’s a perfect side dish for any barbecue or picnic!
If you’re trying to ditch the mayo, this salad is your new best friend! I love how quick it is to make—just boil, toss, and serve. Plus, it tastes even better the next day! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Waxy Potatoes: For this salad, waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are best as they hold their shape well when cooked. If you can’t find them, consider using new potatoes or fingerlings for a similar texture.
Bacon: I love the flavor that crispy bacon adds. If you want a vegetarian version, you could substitute with smoked tempeh or skip it altogether, adding a bit of smoked paprika for flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a tangy brightness. Don’t have it? White wine vinegar or red wine vinegar work well too, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Dijon Mustard: It gives a nice zing. If you prefer a milder taste, plain yellow mustard can be used instead, or even a bit of grainy mustard for more texture.
How Do I Get My Potatoes Perfectly Cooked?
The key to perfectly cooked potatoes is to boil them gently. Start with cold water to ensure even cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Place unpeeled potatoes in a pot and cover them with cold water. This helps them cook evenly.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. Check for doneness with a fork; they should be tender but not falling apart.
- Drain them immediately and let cool slightly before slicing to keep them firm and flavorful.
Following these tips will help you achieve a delicious potato salad that everyone will love! Enjoy the balance of flavors in your tangy, mayo-free salad!
Best German Potato Salad Recipe Without Mayo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 pounds (900g) waxy potatoes (such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious German potato salad can be prepared in about 30 minutes. This includes time to boil the potatoes, cook the bacon, and mix everything together. You can also let it sit for a bit to allow the flavors to blend!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by placing the waxy potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let them simmer until they are tender when pierced with a fork, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Once done, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
2. Cooking the Bacon:
While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the bacon slices. Cook the bacon until it is nice and crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon slices and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. Leave the bacon fat in the skillet, which will enhance the flavor of our dressing!
3. Sautéing the Onions:
Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon fat. Sauté the onions for about 4-5 minutes or until they are softened and translucent. This will bring out their sweetness.
4. Making the Dressing:
To the skillet with the sautéed onions, stir in the apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, and chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it slightly reduces and thickens.
5. Combining Ingredients:
Slice the warm potatoes into bite-sized pieces and add them to a large bowl. Pour the warm dressing over the potatoes and gently toss everything together, ensuring the potatoes absorb all those wonderful flavors.
6. Adding Bacon and Seasoning:
Crumble the crispy bacon over the potato salad. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss gently once more to combine.
7. Garnishing and Serving:
If you’d like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor. You can serve this salad warm or at room temperature. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your authentic, mayo-free German potato salad! Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home!
FAQ for German Potato Salad Recipe Without Mayo
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can! While waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are preferred for their texture, you can use other types like new potatoes or even fingerlings. Just make sure they hold together well when cooked.
How Do I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add smoked tempeh for that same savory flavor or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day ahead. Just keep it in the fridge after mixing. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight. For best taste, serve it at room temperature or gently reheat before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy the salad again, simply give it a gentle toss before serving to refresh the flavors.
