This hearty German potato salad is warm and tangy, a perfect side dish for any meal. Made with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a zesty vinegar dressing, it’s simply delicious!
Honestly, this salad brings back memories of family gatherings! I love serving it next to grilled meats—it’s a crowd-pleaser and always disappears fast. Give it a try!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Use small red or Yukon gold potatoes for their creamy texture. If you can’t find them, fingerling or early harvest potatoes work too. Just stick to waxy varieties for the best results.
Bacon: Bacon gives the salad its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or even pancetta can be used instead. Vegetarians can skip the bacon and replace it with smoked tempeh for a similar flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This vinegar adds a lovely tang to the dish. If you’re out, white wine vinegar can serve as a substitute, but avoid distilled vinegar as it can be too sharp.
Onion: Yellow onion is great for its sweetness. For a milder flavor, consider using green onions or shallots instead.
How Can I Perfectly Cook My Potatoes?
Cooking potatoes properly is crucial for the salad’s texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with cold water: Place washed potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water. This ensures even cooking.
- Add salt: This infuses the potatoes with flavor as they cook.
- Check for doneness: Potatoes are ready when a fork easily pierces them, around 15-20 minutes. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushiness.
Let them cool slightly before slicing. Warm potatoes absorb the dressing better, enhancing the overall flavor!
Easy Old-Fashioned German Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 pounds small red or Yukon gold potatoes
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious German potato salad takes about 30-35 minutes total—15-20 minutes for cooking the potatoes and another 10-15 minutes for preparation and mixing. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that can be served warm or at room temperature!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Start by washing your potatoes thoroughly. Then, place them in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Once done, drain them and let them cool slightly.
2. Cook the Bacon:
While your potatoes are cooking, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook them until they’re nice and crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain. Don’t throw out the bacon fat; you’ll need about 2 tablespoons for the dressing!
3. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the finely chopped onion. Cook it over medium heat until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take around 5 minutes.
4. Make the Dressing:
Now, stir in the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and Dijon mustard into the skillet. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sugar has dissolved and the dressing thickens slightly.
5. Combine Everything:
Slice the warm potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds or cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm dressing over the potatoes, and gently toss everything to combine so the potatoes soak up all the tasty flavors.
6. Finish Up:
Add the crumbled bacon and the chopped parsley to the potato mixture, then toss it lightly again. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
7. Serve:
Your classic German potato salad is now ready! Serve it warm or at room temperature for the best flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Definitely! While small red or Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can also use fingerling or other waxy potatoes. Just avoid starchy potatoes like russets, as they can become mushy in this salad.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover German potato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. It’s great served cold too!
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! This German potato salad is naturally gluten-free as none of the ingredients contain gluten. Just be sure to double-check that your Dijon mustard and any other condiments used are labeled gluten-free if you have a strict dietary need.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day ahead. Just make the salad, let it cool, and then refrigerate it. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious when served the next day!