German Potato Salad Recipe

Oh, you are going to love this German Potato Salad Recipe! Imagine tender red potatoes tossed with crispy bacon and bathed in a tangy, mustard-infused vinegar dressing that sings with every bite. Whether warm or cold, this dish brings a delightful balance of textures and flavors that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for gatherings. Made this? Rate this recipe: it’s been one of my trusted favorites that never fails to bring smiles to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in building the authentic taste and texture of this comforting salad. From the hearty potatoes providing body, to the smoky bacon adding crunch, every component is essential.

• 3 pounds potatoes (red or Yukon gold): Choose waxy potatoes to keep the salad firm, not mushy.
• 1 pound bacon, diced: Adds irresistible smoky crispiness that contrasts beautifully with the tender potatoes.
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion: Softens in the dressing for subtle sweetness and added depth.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Brings vibrant color and fresh herbal notes.
• 1/3 cup cider vinegar: The tart backbone that brightens up every bite.
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Gives a smooth, tangy punch.
• 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard: Adds texture and mild heat for complexity.
• 2 teaspoons sugar: Balances acidity with just a touch of sweetness.
• 1/3 cup olive oil (or canola oil): Gives the dressing richness and a silky finish.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Slightly spicy and warming.
• 2 scallions, sliced: Adds freshness and a mild onion bite.

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Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Start by peeling and cutting the potatoes into bite-size pieces. Place them in a pot with lightly salted water covering by about an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart. Drain and transfer to a medium bowl. This step sets the perfect base — you want potatoes that hold their shape to soak up all that amazing dressing.

Step 2: Crisp the Bacon

While the potatoes cook, brown the diced bacon in a large skillet until wonderfully crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. That rendered bacon fat will soon be your secret weapon for flavor!

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

Pour off most of the bacon fat, leaving about 3 tablespoons in the skillet. Add the finely diced onions and cook over medium-low heat for 4 to 5 minutes, until soft and translucent but not browned. This gentle cooking mellows the onions and infuses them with smoky richness.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

Whisk together the cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, sugar, olive oil, salt, and pepper right in the skillet with the onions. Stir and heat the dressing until it just starts bubbling. This step blends all the flavors into a harmonious sauce that will soak into the warm potatoes perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the warm dressing over the potatoes and gently toss with the crispy bacon, fresh parsley, and sliced scallions. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. The key here is gentle tossing — we want to keep the potatoes intact and fully coated in the flavorful dressing. Serve it warm, at room temperature, or chilled — all ways are equally delicious.

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Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or extra scallions on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness. If you’re feeling fancy, a few thin slices of radish or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add an elegant touch that makes this dish shine.

Side Dishes

This German Potato Salad pairs beautifully with grilled sausages, roasted chicken, or even as a hearty side for a picnic feast. It also complements lighter greens or a crisp cucumber salad to balance out the richness of the bacon and vinegar.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving it in individual mason jars for a charming picnic presentation or layered in a clear glass bowl with alternating layers of salad and fresh herbs for a stunning visual. It’s a versatile dish that looks as good as it tastes, guaranteed to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more as it chills, making the salad tastier the next day. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature or warm it gently if you prefer it warm.

Freezing

This potato salad doesn’t freeze well due to its delicate texture and the fresh ingredients. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated if you want to prepare it ahead of time.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy this salad warm after refrigeration, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat, stirring carefully until heated through. Avoid the microwave as it might make the potatoes mushy. This keeps the salad’s texture and flavor spot on every time.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes?

Absolutely! For the best texture, use waxy potatoes like red or Yukon gold. Russets tend to be too starchy and can fall apart, resulting in a mushy salad.

Is it necessary to use both Dijon and whole grain mustard?

Using both creates a layered mustard flavor—smooth yet with a bit of grainy texture—that gives the dressing complexity. You can adjust proportions to your taste or use just one type if needed.

Can this salad be served cold?

Yes! It’s delicious warm, at room temperature, or chilled. Serving it cold lets the flavors meld beautifully, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks.

What can I substitute for bacon for a vegetarian version?

You can try smoked tempeh or crispy fried mushrooms for that smoky crunch, although the flavor won’t be exactly the same, it’s still tasty and hearty.

How long can I keep this salad in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it keeps well for up to 3 days. Always smell and check the texture before eating leftovers to ensure freshness.

Final Thoughts

This German Potato Salad Recipe truly feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its balance of tangy, smoky, and fresh flavors makes it a standout side that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and give it a try — Made this? Rate this recipe: I can’t wait for you to fall in love with it as I have!