Description
German Potato Salad is a classic German side dish made with tender red potatoes, crispy bacon, red onions, and a tangy Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar dressing. Unlike traditional mayonnaise-based potato salad, this warm and flavorful recipe delivers a savory, smoky, and slightly sweet taste that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, barbecue dishes, and family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds red potatoes
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling potatoes)
- 1 teaspoon salt (for dressing)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon curly parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Place the 2 pounds of red potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Add 1 tablespoon salt and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and rinse under cold water until cool enough to handle.
- Slice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- In a heavy skillet over medium heat, cook the 6 slices of bacon for 6-8 minutes until partially crisp.
- Add the finely diced red onion and continue cooking until the bacon becomes crispy and the onions are translucent.
- Remove the bacon and onions from the skillet and drain excess grease. Add them to the bowl with the potatoes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature and refrigerate any leftovers.
Notes
- Serve warm for the most authentic German Potato Salad experience.
- Red potatoes hold their shape best, but Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used.
- Do not overcook the potatoes to avoid a mushy texture.
- Mix the dressing with the potatoes while they are still slightly warm for maximum flavor absorption.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing is not recommended as the potatoes may become grainy after thawing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling and Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1 cup)
- Calories: 412 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 443 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 36 mg