This Easy Warm German Potato Salad is a tasty twist on traditional salad. It features tender potatoes tossed with bacon, onions, and a tangy vinegar dressing that’s sure to warm you up!
Honestly, this salad is perfect for cozy nights! I love serving it alongside grilled meats or just having it as a light meal. It’s fun to see everyone enjoying that delicious flavor! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Small yellow potatoes are ideal for this dish as they are creamy and hold their shape well after cooking. If they’re not available, try using red potatoes, which add a bit of color and have a similar texture.
Bacon: I love the smoky flavor that bacon brings to the salad. But if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use smoked tempeh or mushrooms to achieve a similar flavor. Just make sure to get that crispiness!
Onion: A small onion adds a nice depth of flavor. You can use shallots for a milder taste or green onions if you prefer a fresher crunch. They both work wonderfully!
Dijon Mustard: Dijon gives a nice tang to the dressing. If you want a milder flavor, you could switch to yellow mustard or even omit it for a simpler vinaigrette.
How Can I Make Sure My Potatoes Are Cooked Perfectly?
Getting your potatoes cooked just right is essential for a great salad. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with cold water when you add your potatoes to the pot. This ensures even cooking.
- Add a pinch of salt to the water. It helps flavor the potatoes as they cook.
- Test for doneness by piercing a potato with a fork. It should slide in easily but not fall apart.
- Once cooked, drain them well and let them cool a bit before slicing. This way, they’ll absorb the dressing better.
Easy Warm German Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 pounds small yellow potatoes (baby or new potatoes)
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (preferably whole grain)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 green onions, sliced (green parts only)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes cooking the potatoes, plus a few more minutes preparing the dressing, sautéing onions, and mixing everything together. It’s a quick and delicious dish that’s perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large pot, cover them with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Once done, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
2. Cook the Bacon:
While the potatoes are cooking, take the bacon and dice it into small pieces. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet—this will add flavor!
3. Sauté the Onion:
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the chopped onion. Sauté over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step really brings out the sweetness of the onion.
4. Make the Dressing:
Now, stir in the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and sugar into the skillet. Let this mixture simmer gently for 1-2 minutes, allowing all the flavors to combine. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, and give it a taste—yum!
5. Combine Everything:
Slice the warm potatoes in half (or quarters if they’re larger) and add them to the skillet with the dressing. Toss everything together carefully so the potatoes are well-coated with the dressing and combined with the onions.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Immediately stir in the cooked bacon, sliced green onions, and chopped parsley. This adds a lovely freshness to the salad!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the potato salad warm or at room temperature for the best flavor. It goes wonderfully with grilled meats or as a standalone dish. Enjoy your delicious Easy Warm German Potato Salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While small yellow potatoes work best for their creamy texture, you can also use red potatoes or even Yukon gold for a slightly different flavor. Just ensure they’re small so they’ll cook evenly and maintain their shape.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving again. The flavors will continue to develop, so it’s still super tasty!
What Can I Use Instead of Bacon for a Vegetarian Option?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian substitution, smoky tempeh or mushrooms sautéed until crispy can be excellent alternatives. They will provide a nice depth of flavor similar to bacon without the meat.
How Can I Adjust the Flavor if I Find It Too Tangy?
If you find the salad too tangy, you can balance the flavor by adding a touch more sugar or a drizzle of olive oil. This will round out the acidity from the vinegar and enhance the overall taste. Adjust little by little until it’s just right for you!
