This Easy Old-Fashioned German Potato Salad is warm and hearty, featuring tender potatoes tossed with crispy bacon, onions, and a tangy vinegar dressing. It’s a comforting classic!
Who can resist the crispy bacon bits? I love serving this at cookouts, where it vanishes in minutes. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making me look like a total rockstar in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes are great choices because they hold their shape well. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower can be a tasty substitute.
Bacon: The crispiness of bacon adds flavor and texture. For a vegetarian version, try using smoked tempeh or a plant-based bacon alternative, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds nice acidity. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice can work, but they may alter the taste a bit.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a bit of kick to the dressing. If you prefer a milder taste, yellow mustard or even honey mustard is a suitable substitute.
How Do I Get the Potatoes Just Right?
Cooking potatoes properly is crucial for this salad. Start by cooking them gently so they don’t become mushy. Here’s how:
- Choose medium-sized potatoes for even cooking. Smaller ones can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Always start with cold water in a pot, then bring it to a boil. This helps cook the potatoes evenly.
- Cook until fork-tender, which typically takes 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes.
- Let them cool slightly before slicing; this helps them stay intact. You can peel them if you wish, but leaving the skin adds flavor and nutrients.
These steps will ensure your potatoes are just tender enough without falling apart! Enjoy the process.
Easy Old-Fashioned German Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 pounds medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
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 will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 15–20 minutes boiling the potatoes, plus another 10 minutes for prepping the dressing and tossing everything together. It’s a quick and easy side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by placing the medium-sized potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. When the water is boiling, lower the heat and let the potatoes cook until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork – this should take about 15–20 minutes. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly.
2. Preparing the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes have cooled enough to handle, you can peel them if you prefer, although it’s not necessary. Slice the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Set aside.
3. Cooking the Bacon:
In a large skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook over medium heat until nice and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside on paper towels to drain. Keep the delicious bacon drippings in the skillet for the dressing!
4. Cooking the Onions:
Add the finely chopped onions to the bacon drippings in the skillet. Sauté over medium heat until the onions are soft and translucent, which will take about 3–4 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
5. Making the Dressing:
Once the onions are ready, stir in the apple cider vinegar, water, granulated sugar, and Dijon mustard. Bring this mix to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 2–3 minutes, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely.
6. Combining Everything:
In a large bowl, add your sliced potatoes and then pour the hot bacon dressing over them. Gently toss everything together to coat the potatoes without breaking them apart. Be sure to add the crispy bacon pieces back into the mix as well! Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
7. Final Touches:
If you like, garnish your German potato salad with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm or let it cool to room temperature before enjoying!
And there you have it! This classic warm German potato salad is perfect for any gathering and complements grilled meats beautifully. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Old-Fashioned German Potato Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and red potatoes are excellent choices, you can use any waxy variety. Just avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they’ll become too mushy.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using smoked tempeh or a plant-based bacon alternative. You can also omit the bacon altogether and use a bit of liquid smoke for flavor if desired.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or enjoy it cold—it’s delicious either way!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just wait to add the crispy bacon until just before serving to keep it crunchy. The flavors will meld beautifully in the fridge!
