German Potato Salad

This German potato salad is a delightful twist on the classic dish, perfect for summer gatherings and barbecues. Made with crispy bacon and a tangy homemade dressing that contains no mayo, this salad is packed with flavor and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or looking for a hearty side dish for dinner, this warm potato salad is versatile and always satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of bacon, red potatoes, and zesty dressing brings exciting flavors to your table.
• No Mayo: This recipe skips the mayonnaise, making it lighter while still creamy and delicious.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps, this German potato salad can be made by anyone, regardless of cooking skills.
• Serve Warm or Cold: Enjoy it warm right from the skillet or let it chill in the fridge for a refreshing side.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is ideal for potlucks, barbecues, or any summer celebration.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delicious German potato salad, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling potatoes evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for frying bacon to achieve the desired crispiness while sautéing vegetables.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing the dressing ingredients smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

This German potato salad is loaded with tons of bacon and has the best homemade sweet and tangy dressing that has no mayo. It’s a classic for your summer table!

For the Salad

• 2 pounds red potatoes
• 12 ounces bacon
• 1 medium red onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2-3 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons white vinegar or cider vinegar
• 1/2 tablespoon white sugar (see note)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or German mustard
• Chives for garnish (optional, to taste)

How to Make German Potato Salad

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Boil the potatoes (leave the peels on). If they are large, cut them in half first. Once they are easily pierced with a knife, drain them and let them cool just enough to handle.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, add the broth, vinegar, sugar, and mustard. Whisk together until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

When the potatoes are close to being done, cut the bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears. Fry it in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy (about 10 minutes).

Step 4: Sauté Onions

Turn off the burner to allow the skillet to cool slightly. Remove cooked bacon from skillet; place on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave bacon fat in pan. Add chopped onion to skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes over medium heat until soft.

Step 5: Cut Potatoes

Cut cooled potatoes into chunks or slices according to preference. You can leave peels on as they will be easy to remove after boiling.

Step 6: Add Garlic

Stir minced garlic into skillet with onions and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 7: Combine Dressing

Add the broth mixture to skillet. Scrape up any browned bits from bottom of pan. Let it come to a boil; cook for 1-2 minutes until liquid reduces by about half (avoid excessive evaporation).

Step 8: Mix Ingredients

Remove skillet from heat. Stir in potatoes, cooked bacon, and parsley until well-coated.

Step 9: Season & Serve

Season with salt & pepper as needed. Transfer potato salad to a serving bowl or serve straight from skillet for warmth retention. Top with chives if desired and enjoy warm!

How to Serve German Potato Salad

German potato salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its warm, tangy flavor makes it an excellent side for many occasions, from casual picnics to festive gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled meats like sausages or chicken for a hearty meal.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables to add color and nutrients to your plate.

In a Wrap

• Use it as a filling in wraps with lettuce and your choice of protein for a satisfying lunch.
• Add some sliced cucumbers for extra crunch and freshness.

With Fresh Greens

• Toss it on a bed of arugula or spinach for a delightful salad.
• Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the flavors.

As a Party Appetizer

• Serve it in small cups or bowls at gatherings for easy sharing.
• Garnish with fresh herbs to elevate the presentation.

How to Perfect German Potato Salad

Creating the best German potato salad involves attention to detail and the right techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your salad turns out delicious every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for red potatoes as they hold their shape well after cooking.
• Cook potatoes correctly: Boil until just tender; overcooking can lead to mushiness.
• Use high-quality bacon: Crispy, flavorful bacon adds richness and depth to the dish.
• Balance the dressing: Adjust vinegar and sugar levels to achieve your preferred sweet-tangy flavor.
• Serve warm: This salad tastes best when served warm, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for German Potato Salad

German potato salad pairs wonderfully with several side dishes, making meals more diverse and enjoyable. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Bratwurst: These flavorful sausages complement the tanginess of the potato salad perfectly.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft potatoes.
3. Cabbage Slaw: The crispness of slaw brings freshness and balance to heavier dishes.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears provide a vibrant color and earthy flavor profile.
5. Bavarian Pretzels: Soft pretzels make for an inviting snack that pairs well with mustard dips alongside your salad.
6. Pickled Vegetables: A selection of pickles adds an additional tangy crunch that complements the flavors of the potato salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making German potato salad can be simple, but there are some common mistakes that can ruin the dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using the wrong potatoes: Using waxy potatoes like red potatoes is essential for the best texture. Avoid starchy varieties which can become mushy.
• Overcooking the potatoes: If you boil the potatoes too long, they will fall apart. Aim for tender but firm, easily pierced with a knife.
• Skipping the bacon drippings: The flavor from bacon drippings is crucial. Don’t discard it; use it to sauté onions and garlic for extra flavor.
• Not seasoning enough: Taste as you go! Add salt and pepper gradually to ensure you achieve the right balance of flavors.
• Forgetting the vinegar: The tanginess from vinegar is key in German potato salad. Don’t skip it or use too little; it enhances the overall taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Make sure the salad is completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture build-up.

Freezing German Potato Salad

• Freezing isn’t recommended, as potatoes can become grainy and lose texture when thawed.
• If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating German Potato Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through (about 15-20 minutes).
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power. Stir occasionally until warmed thoroughly (about 3-5 minutes).
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat. Stir gently until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed to moisten.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making German potato salad:

What is German Potato Salad?

German potato salad is a warm side dish made with red potatoes, bacon, and a tangy dressing usually without mayonnaise.

Can I make German Potato Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

How do I customize my German Potato Salad?

You can add ingredients like hard-boiled eggs, pickles, or even different herbs according to your taste preferences.

What can I serve with German Potato Salad?

This dish pairs well with grilled meats, sausages, or as part of a picnic spread.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

To make this vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

This German potato salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the seasoning. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering!