This creamy Whole30 potato salad is a guilt-free twist on a classic favorite! Made with tender potatoes and a tasty homemade dressing, it’s fresh and filling.
I love bringing this to picnics or family gatherings—everyone can’t resist asking for the recipe! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, you’ll have it ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Potatoes: These are my favorite for potato salad because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture. If you prefer a different type, Yukon gold potatoes are a great alternative.
Compliant Mayonnaise: I recommend using an avocado oil mayonnaise for a healthier option. If you can’t find any, homemade mayo is simple and can fit your Whole30 needs.
Dijon Mustard: Make sure your mustard is Whole30 compliant! If you’re not a fan of Dijon, you can use yellow mustard or even some spicy mustard for a kick.
Fresh Dill: Fresh dill adds a nice pop of flavor, but if you can’t find it, dried dill works in a pinch. Just use a bit less, as dried herbs are stronger.
How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
The key to tender yet firm potatoes is careful cooking. Here’s how:
- Start with cold water. This helps the potatoes cook evenly as the temperature rises.
- Add a pinch of salt to the water for added flavor while boiling.
- Boil for about 10-12 minutes, but check at the 10-minute mark. You want them fork-tender—not falling apart!
- Immediately drain and rinse the potatoes under cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents mushiness.
Taking these steps will give you perfectly cooked potatoes for a delightful salad texture!
Creamy Whole30 Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds red potatoes, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup compliant mayonnaise (Whole30 approved, e.g., avocado oil mayo)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (check for Whole30 compliance)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (scallions)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Whole30 potato salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to chill. So you’ll spend a bit of time cooking and mixing, and then just let it sit in the fridge to enhance the flavors. It’s a perfect side dish to make ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by placing the diced red potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water, then add a pinch of salt. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the water to a boil. Boil the potatoes for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but not mushy.
2. Cool the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are tender, carefully drain them in a colander. Rinse the potatoes under cold water to cool them quickly and stop the cooking process. Set the cooled potatoes aside.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth and creamy dressing.
4. Combine Potatoes and Dressing:
Add the cooled potatoes, red onion, green onions, and chopped dill to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together so that the potatoes are evenly coated.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Give the potato salad a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar to achieve your desired flavor.
6. Garnish and Chill:
Transfer the potato salad to a serving bowl. For a finishing touch, sprinkle some extra fresh dill and smoked paprika on top. Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to let all those great flavors meld together.
Enjoy your creamy, tangy, and Whole30-compliant potato salad! It’s a fantastic side for any meal and sure to be a hit with friends and family!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Salad?
Yes! While red potatoes are great for their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape, you can also use Yukon gold or even baby potatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if using a different variety.
How Can I Make This Potato Salad Ahead of Time?
This salad can be made a day in advance! Prepare it as directed and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier by the time you serve it!
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving as it may thicken upon chilling.
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you could try a Whole30 compliant yogurt alternative or even make a creamy dressing using blended avocado for a different flavor profile.