This German potato salad is a delightful dish featuring crispy bacon and a unique homemade dressing that is sweet and tangy, without the use of mayo. Perfect for summer gatherings, this warm potato salad stands out with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, making it ideal for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-packed: The combination of bacon, red onions, and a tangy dressing creates a taste experience that’s hard to resist.
- No mayo needed: Enjoy a lighter version of potato salad with this mayo-free recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Easy to prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish in under an hour.
- Versatile side dish: This German potato salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a satisfying meal.
- Serves a crowd: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe yields six servings, making it great for sharing.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Pot for boiling potatoes
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: This is crucial for frying the bacon and sautéing the onions and garlic to enhance their flavors.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is necessary for combining your dressing ingredients before adding them to the potatoes.
- Pot for boiling potatoes: A good pot will ensure even cooking of the potatoes, leading to perfect texture in your salad.
Ingredients
This German potato salad is loaded with tons of bacon and has the best homemade sweet and tangy dressing that has no mayo. It’s a classic for your summer table!
- 2 pounds red potatoes
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 3 tablespoons white vinegar or cider vinegar
- 1/2 tablespoon white sugar (see note)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or German mustard
- 12 ounces bacon
- 1 medium red onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2-3 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Chives for garnish (optional, to taste)
How to Make German Potato Salad
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Boil the potatoes with peels on until they are easily pierced with a knife. Drain them once cooked and let them cool just enough to handle.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine the broth, vinegar, sugar, and mustard. Whisk together until mixed well. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
Cut the bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears. Fry in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, about 10 minutes. Remove bacon from skillet but leave fat behind.
Step 4: Sauté Onions
With the skillet still warm, add chopped onion. Sauté over medium heat for about five minutes until softened.
Step 5: Cut the Potatoes
While onions are cooking, cut cooled potatoes into chunks or slices as desired. You can leave the skins on for added texture.
Step 6: Add Garlic
Stir minced garlic into the skillet with onions. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Add your prepared broth mixture to the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring it to a boil and reduce by half over one to two minutes.
Step 8: Toss in Ingredients
Remove from heat and stir in chopped potatoes, crispy bacon, and parsley. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
Step 9: Season and Serve
Season your German potato salad with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer it to a serving bowl or serve directly from the skillet while warm. Garnish with chives if desired.
Enjoy this flavorful German potato salad warm at your next gathering!
How to Serve German Potato Salad
German potato salad is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want it as a side dish or as part of a main course, here are some great serving suggestions.
As a Side Dish
- Pair with grilled meats: German potato salad complements grilled sausages or chicken beautifully, adding a savory touch to your meal.
- Serve warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm, as the flavors meld together when heated.
In a Wrap
- Use in sandwiches: Scoop some German potato salad into a wrap along with greens and protein for a hearty lunch option.
- Add extra crunch: Toss in some fresh veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers for added texture.
On a Picnic
- Take it outdoors: This potato salad is perfect for picnics due to its easy transport and delightful taste.
- Serve in individual cups: Pre-portion servings into cups for easy eating on the go.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with herbs: Adding fresh chives or parsley not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.
- Experiment with toppings: Consider adding crispy fried onions for an extra crunch.
How to Perfect German Potato Salad
To make your German potato salad truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose the right potatoes: Red potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well after cooking, giving your salad the perfect texture.
- Adjust the dressing: Taste your dressing before adding it to the potatoes; adjust vinegar and sugar levels to suit your preference for tanginess or sweetness.
- Don’t skip the bacon: The crispy bacon adds essential flavor and texture that elevates this dish from simple to spectacular.
- Serve immediately: For the best experience, serve the salad right after mixing so you can enjoy it warm and fresh.
Best Side Dishes for German Potato Salad
German potato salad pairs wonderfully with many dishes. Here are some excellent side options to complement its flavors.
- Bratwurst: This classic German sausage is juicy and flavorful, making it an excellent main dish alongside potato salad.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrients, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
- Sauerkraut: The tangy flavor of sauerkraut balances the richness of the potato salad perfectly.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a touch of summer freshness that pairs well with this hearty dish.
- Pretzel Bites: Soft pretzels are great for snacking while enjoying your meal; dip them in mustard for added flavor.
- Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, which complements the creamy elements of potato salad nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making German potato salad, it’s easy to make mistakes that can alter its taste and texture. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Using the wrong type of potatoes: Choose red or Yukon gold potatoes for their waxy texture. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, which can become mushy.
- Skipping the vinegar: The tangy flavor from vinegar is essential in German potato salad. Don’t omit it; instead, use a good quality white or cider vinegar.
- Overcooking the bacon: Crisp bacon adds flavor and texture. Cook it until crispy but not burnt for the best results.
- Not seasoning adequately: Taste your salad before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors; under-seasoning can make it bland.
- Serving it cold: Traditional German potato salad is served warm, which enhances its flavors. Serve it right after cooking for the best experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- German potato salad will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing German Potato Salad
- It’s best not to freeze this salad due to the texture changes in potatoes and dressing.
- If you must, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating German Potato Salad
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) stirring between each until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about German potato salad that may help you as you prepare this delicious dish.
What makes German Potato Salad different?
German potato salad is unique due to its vinaigrette dressing instead of mayonnaise, giving it a tangy flavor.
Can I make German Potato Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat gently before serving for optimal taste.
Is there a vegetarian version of German Potato Salad?
Absolutely! Simply replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for a similar flavor profile without meat.
What should I serve with German Potato Salad?
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sausages, or as part of a larger picnic spread.
Final Thoughts
This German potato salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it with different herbs or add veggies like bell peppers for extra crunch. Give it a try at your next gathering!
German Potato Salad
Indulge in the rich flavors of this German Potato Salad, a scrumptious alternative to traditional mayo-based recipes. This delightful dish features crispy bacon, tangy vinegar dressing, and tender red potatoes, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings, picnics, or backyard barbecues. With its warm and savory profile accented by fresh herbs, this potato salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, enjoy a hearty side that complements grilled meats or stands alone as a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves six
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling/Frying
- Cuisine: German
Ingredients
- 2 pounds red potatoes
- 12 ounces bacon
- 1 medium red onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 3 tablespoons vinegar (white or cider)
- 1/2 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Fresh parsley and chives for garnish
Instructions
- Boil red potatoes with skins on until fork-tender. Drain and cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together broth, vinegar, sugar, and mustard.
- Fry chopped bacon in a skillet until crispy; remove bacon but retain fat.
- Sauté chopped onions in the same skillet until softened; add minced garlic and cook briefly.
- Cut cooled potatoes into chunks; add to skillet along with dressing mixture and crispy bacon.
- Combine well, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm garnished with fresh herbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
