If you are looking for a salad that perfectly balances rich creaminess with the fresh brightness of herbs, this Creamy Red Potato Salad with Fresh Herbs Recipe is an absolute must-try. Tender red potatoes tossed in a luscious, tangy dressing and sprinkled with vibrant dill, parsley, and green onions create a dish that feels both comforting and refreshingly light. It’s the kind of recipe that elevates any picnic, barbecue, or family meal, and once you try it, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet crucial to building the full flavor profile of this salad. Each component brings something special, from the creamy texture of the mayonnaise to the subtle kick from the Dijon mustard and the fresh herbaceous notes from dill and parsley.
- 2 pounds red potatoes: Their thin skins and waxy texture hold up nicely when cooked, providing a perfect bite and color contrast.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds rich creaminess that binds the flavors together seamlessly.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Brings a slight tanginess that lightens the dressing beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle heat and depth making the dressing more complex.
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar: Adds a gentle acidity that brightens the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing every flavor note in the salad.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild spiciness that balances the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped: Imparts a distinctive, fragrant herb flavor transforming the potato salad from simple to spectacular.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Offers freshness and a hint of earthiness that complements the dill perfectly.
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced: Deliver a gentle onion crunch and a pop of color that livens every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Introduces a subtle depth without overwhelming the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory elements of the dressing.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smoky undertone and vibrant color.
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed: Provides a faint, herby crunch that rounds out the seasoning beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Red Potato Salad with Fresh Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing your red potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt — their skins are delicate but packed with nutrients and texture, so no peeling needed. This step ensures your salad starts with clean, fresh potatoes that will cook evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Place the cleaned potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water, adding a pinch of salt. Bringing the water to a boil and then reducing to a simmer means your potatoes cook tender without falling apart, preserving the perfect bite you want in a potato salad.
Step 3: Drain and Cool
Once fork-tender, drain the potatoes and allow them to cool just enough to handle. This rest prevents the delicate flesh from turning mushy when you cut and mix them later.
Step 4: Cube the Potatoes
Chop the warm potatoes into bite-sized cubes, leaving the skins intact for that added color and texture boost that makes this salad so visually appealing and delightfully chunky.
Step 5: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard to form the creamy base. Then whisk in white wine vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and celery seed, creating a perfectly seasoned dressing bursting with flavor.
Step 6: Add the Fresh Herbs and Onions
Gently fold in the chopped dill, parsley, and thinly sliced green onions to the dressing, infusing it with fresh aromatics that brighten the entire salad.
Step 7: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressed herb mixture over the cubed potatoes and fold gently to coat each piece evenly without breaking them up. Refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld—a crucial step that intensifies the taste and encourages a delicious creaminess throughout.
Step 8: Final Touch and Serve
Before serving, give the potato salad one last gentle stir to redistribute the herbs and dressing, ensuring every bite is perfect.
How to Serve Creamy Red Potato Salad with Fresh Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs like dill or parsley right before serving not only elevates the aroma but also gives a gorgeous pop of color that makes your salad look as good as it tastes. For a little extra zing, a few thin slices of red onion or a dusting of paprika can be beautiful finishing touches.
Side Dishes
This salad shines alongside grilled chicken, barbecued ribs, or smoky sausages. It’s equally wonderful paired with crispy fried chicken or as a creamy complement to a fresh, leafy green salad. Its versatility makes it an ideal side dish for almost any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in a rustic wooden bowl for a charming picnic vibe or in a glass trifle bowl to showcase the pretty layers of red potatoes and vibrant herbs. You can also spoon it into hollowed-out tomatoes or avocados for an elegant appetizer twist that wows guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making leftovers even tastier. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the texture.
Freezing
Because of its creamy dressing and fresh herbs, this potato salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. Freezing may cause the texture to become watery and the herbs to lose their vibrancy, so it’s better to make a fresh batch when needed.
Reheating
This salad is intended to be served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t recommended. If you prefer to enjoy it slightly warmer, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
While red potatoes are ideal due to their waxy texture and ability to hold shape, Yukon Gold potatoes can be a great substitute. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets as they tend to become too mushy for potato salad.
Is it necessary to use both mayonnaise and sour cream?
The combination of mayonnaise and sour cream provides a perfect balance of creaminess and tang. You could substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
How long should I refrigerate the salad for best flavor?
Refrigerating for at least one hour allows all the flavors to marry beautifully. If possible, chilling it for several hours or overnight will give you an even deeper and more harmonious taste.
Can this salad be made vegan?
Yes! You can swap out the mayonnaise and sour cream for vegan versions, and ensure your Dijon mustard does not contain any animal products. The fresh herbs and seasoning will still make it delightful.
What if I want to add more crunch to the salad?
Adding chopped celery, diced pickles, or even some toasted nuts like walnuts can introduce a lovely crunch and extra flavor dimension that pairs wonderfully with the creamy dressing.
Final Thoughts
Whip up this Creamy Red Potato Salad with Fresh Herbs Recipe whenever you crave a side that feels homemade, fresh, and utterly satisfying. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but special enough to bring to gatherings where it will surely steal the show. I hope you enjoy making this salad as much as you will enjoy sharing it!
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Creamy Red Potato Salad with Fresh Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 50m
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Red Potato Salad with Herbs is a delightful blend of tender red potatoes coated in a luscious, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard, complemented by fresh dill, parsley, and green onions. Perfectly seasoned with a touch of paprika, celery seed, garlic, and onion powder, this salad is a classic side dish ideal for picnics, barbecues, or any casual gathering.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds red potatoes
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
Herbs and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Wash the Potatoes: Thoroughly wash the red potatoes to remove any dirt or debris, ensuring they are clean before cooking.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer Until Tender: Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and cook the potatoes for 10-15 minutes, or until fork-tender but still firm enough to hold their shape.
- Drain and Cool: Carefully drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool for a few minutes until they are safe to handle.
- Cube the Potatoes: Cut the cooled potatoes into bite-sized cubes, leaving the skins on to add texture and vibrant color to the salad.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard, stirring until smooth.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in white wine vinegar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and celery seed, blending all ingredients thoroughly.
- Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Add the chopped dill, parsley, and sliced green onions into the dressing and mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Combine Potatoes and Dressing: Pour the creamy dressing over the cubed potatoes and gently fold to coat every piece evenly without mashing the potatoes.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the salad and add more salt or pepper if needed to suit your preference.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Final Stir and Serve: Before serving, gently stir the salad again to redistribute the dressing and herbs for a perfect presentation and flavor balance.
Notes
- Leaving the skins on the potatoes adds a nice texture and visual appeal.
- For a tangier flavor, add an extra splash of white wine vinegar to the dressing.
- This salad can be prepared a day in advance to enhance the flavors further.
- Use fresh herbs for the brightest flavor; dried herbs will not have the same impact.
- Adjust the seasoning according to taste, especially the salt and pepper.
