This Easy Classic German Potato Salad is a warm, tangy treat made with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and zesty vinegar. It’s comfort food at its best!
My favorite part? The delicious bacon that adds crunch. Perfect as a side dish for BBQs, or anytime you crave a tasty bite! It’s so simple to make, you’ll find yourself serving it often.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are fantastic because of their creamy texture when cooked. If you can’t find them, red potatoes work well too. Just make sure to slice them thin for even cooking!
Bacon: Bacon gives a nice crispy texture and rich flavor. For a lighter option, try turkey bacon, or if you want to keep it vegetarian, use smoked paprika to add flavor without the meat.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds the tangy kick to the salad. If you’re out of it, white wine vinegar or even lemon juice can be great substitutes. They’ll still give you that zesty flavor!
Onion: Yellow onions add sweetness when cooked. If you prefer, you can use shallots for a milder taste, or even green onions for a fresher flavor.
How Do You Properly Cook Potatoes for Salad?
Cooking the potatoes is crucial for this salad. You want them tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with cold water: Place the sliced potatoes in a pot and cover them with cold water. This helps them cook evenly.
- Add salt: A pinch of salt in the water enhances the flavor of the potatoes.
- Don’t overcook: Boil until just tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. You want them to hold their shape for the salad.
- Drain well: After cooking, drain them and set aside so they can cool slightly without becoming soggy.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked potatoes that are ready to soak up all the delicious dressing! Enjoy your salad warm for the best combination of flavors!
Easy Classic German Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes (or red potatoes), peeled and thinly sliced
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious German potato salad takes about 30 minutes to prepare. This includes boiling the potatoes and cooking the bacon, plus a few extra minutes for slicing and mixing everything together. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by placing the sliced potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the pot and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes until they are just tender, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Once they’re done, drain the potatoes and set them aside.
2. Cooking the Bacon:
In a large skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook it over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. This process usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. When the bacon is ready, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels while leaving the tasty bacon fat in the skillet.
3. Sautéing the Onion:
Next, add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon fat. Sauté the onion for about 3 to 5 minutes until it’s softened and translucent. The aroma will be delicious!
4. Making the Dressing:
Now it’s time to create the dressing. Stir the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and sugar into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Combining Everything:
Add the drained potatoes and crispy bacon back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together to coat the potatoes in the warm dressing. Be careful not to break the potatoes apart!
6. Final Seasoning:
Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it another gentle stir to mix the flavors.
7. Garnishing:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley and chives (if you’re using them) over the salad for a pop of color and freshness.
8. Serving:
Enjoy your potato salad warm or at room temperature for the best flavor. It’s a delightful side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own!
This classic German potato salad combines tangy dressing, smoky bacon, and tender potatoes, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Classic German Potato Salad
Can I Use Yukon Gold Potatoes Instead of Red Potatoes?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold potatoes are great for this salad due to their creamy texture. If you prefer red potatoes, they will work well too. Just make sure to slice them thinly for even cooking!
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This German potato salad can be kept for up to 3 days. To enjoy it warm again, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Is There a Vegetarian Version of This Salad?
Yes! You can create a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon. To add a similar smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika in the dressing. Additionally, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the potatoes and the dressing in advance. Simply combine them just before serving to prevent the potatoes from soaking up too much dressing. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best taste!
