Crispy Potato Salad Recipe

This Crispy Potato Salad is a total game changer for any picnic table or backyard barbecue. Imagine tender, golden-baked potatoes tossed in a cool and creamy dressing, then sprinkled with loads of fresh herbs for a deliciously colorful finish. Every bite gives you that perfect crunch followed by a hit of tangy, savory flavor. If you want a dish that’s just as impressive as it is satisfying, this Crispy Potato Salad delivers—trust me, your friends and family will be fighting over the last spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Crispy Potato Salad comes from its simple, fresh ingredients—each one is picked to deliver something special, from vibrant herbs to creamy richness. Every component adds its own touch, so don’t skip or skimp where you don’t have to!

• Yukon gold potatoes: Their naturally buttery texture crisps beautifully and stands up to the creamy dressing.
• Olive oil: This helps the potatoes turn golden and crunchy when baked.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle, savory depth that pairs so well with the potatoes.
• Sour cream: Gives the dressing tang and creaminess, balancing out the crispy potatoes.
• Mayonnaise: The base of the dressing for extra luscious, smooth flavor.
• Fresh scallions (divided): Sprinkled throughout for a bit of oniony bite and color.
• Fresh dill (divided): Herbaceous and aromatic, dill ties everything together with its signature flavor.
• Fresh parsley (divided): Adds a bright burst of color and fresh earthiness.
• Dijon mustard: Brings a little heat and tang to keep the salad lively.
• Lemon juice: Fresh acidity gives the salad pop and brightness.
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper: To finish and perfectly balance out all the flavors.

How to Make Crispy Potato Salad

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by letting your cubed Yukon gold potatoes take a dip in cold, salted water. Bring them up to a boil, then simmer until they’re fork-tender. This step ensures the centers stay creamy while the edges will crisp up perfectly in the oven. Drain them well so they’re ready for their oil bath.

Step 2: Season and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F while you toss the drained potatoes in olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a foil-lined baking sheet in a nice single layer—that’s the key to satisfying crunch in every bite. Bake until they’re deeply golden and crispy, turning halfway through for maximum crunch factor.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

While the potatoes work their magic in the oven, it’s time to whisk together the dressing. Combine the sour cream and mayo in a large bowl for a base that’s creamy but not heavy. Stir in most of the scallions, dill, and parsley (saving a little for garnish), plus Dijon mustard and lemon juice for zing. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste—you’ll know it’s right when it tastes fresh and tangy.

Step 4: Toss and Finish

The potatoes should only meet their creamy dressing right before serving—otherwise, you risk losing that glorious crispiness. Gently toss the hot, golden potatoes with the dressing just until coated. Transfer the salad to your favorite dish and rain down those reserved fresh herbs and scallions. Every forkful looks (and tastes) absolutely irresistible!

How to Serve Crispy Potato Salad

Garnishes

Finish your Crispy Potato Salad with a flourish of the reserved fresh dill, parsley, and scallions. These herbs add an eye-catching pop of green and a final layer of flavor. If you want to get fancy, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a fresh lemon zest twist really elevates the dish’s aromas and colors.

Side Dishes

This salad might just steal the spotlight, but it’s also the ultimate team player. Pair it with classics like grilled chicken, smoky ribs, or a juicy steak. It’s also fantastic beside veggie burgers or crispy tofu for a meatless meal. Trust me, nobody will miss the old-fashioned mayo-heavy potato salad after tasting this.

Creative Ways to Present

Crispy Potato Salad loves a little bit of drama! Try piling it high in a rustic wooden bowl for a family-style meal, or scoop portions into mason jars for an adorable picnic spread. Feeling bold? Serve mini portions on lettuce leaves or small appetizer spoons for a party appetizer that’ll turn heads and spark conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have extra Crispy Potato Salad (good luck with that!), store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The potatoes might soften a little as they soak up the creamy dressing, but the flavors only get better. It’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad—the dressing can separate, and the potatoes lose their crispy texture. For best results, enjoy it fresh or within a couple days of making it.

Reheating

If you’d like to revive the crispiness, spread the leftovers on a baking sheet and reheat them in a 400°F oven for about 10 minutes. You can always add a little more fresh herb or extra dollop of dressing after reheating to perk things up!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?

Absolutely! While Yukon gold potatoes deliver the best creamy-interior and crispy-exterior combo, red potatoes or even baby potatoes can work well. Just keep the pieces uniform so they cook evenly.

Can I make Crispy Potato Salad ahead of time?

You can certainly prep the potatoes and dressing ahead separately. For the crunchiest results, toss them together just before serving so the potatoes don’t lose their crisp magic.

Is this salad gluten free?

Yes, Crispy Potato Salad is naturally gluten free as written. Just double check that your Dijon mustard and any other packaged ingredients are labeled gluten free to be safe.

Can I lighten up the dressing?

Definitely! You can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or mayonnaise for extra protein and a tangier bite, or try a reduced-fat option for both. It’ll still taste fantastic and keep that creamy vibe.

What happens if I toss the potatoes with the dressing while they’re hot?

When the potatoes are hot, they absorb the dressing quickly, which means you’ll trade some crispiness for more flavor infusion. If you prefer maximum crunch, let the potatoes cool a bit before combining with the dressing.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so inviting about a big bowl of Crispy Potato Salad, bursting with flavor and fresh herbs. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple at your gatherings. Give it a try—you might just find it’s your new favorite twist on classic potato salad!

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