Best Dressing for Potato Salad: (7 Tasty Dressing Recipes)

Potato salad is a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue, a family gathering, or a potluck dinner.

One of the key components of a great potato salad is the dressing.

The right dressing can make or break the dish, so it’s important to choose wisely.

There are many different types of dressings that can be used for potato salad, each with its own unique flavor and texture.

Some people prefer a tangy vinaigrette, while others prefer a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing.

The dressing you choose will depend on your personal preference and the other ingredients in your potato salad.

In this article, we will explore some of the best dressings for potato salad, including classic mayonnaise-based dressings, tangy vinaigrettes, and even some creative and unexpected options.

Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurous cook, there’s sure to be a dressing on this list that will take your potato salad to the next level.

Read Also: 15 Best Spices For Potato Salad

Classic Dressing

When it comes to potato salad, the dressing can make or break the dish. A classic dressing is a must-have for any potato salad recipe. Here are some popular classic dressings that you can use to make your potato salad:

Mayonnaise-based Dressing

Mayonnaise-based dressing is the most popular and traditional dressing for potato salad. It is creamy, tangy, and pairs perfectly with the starchy potatoes. Here is a simple recipe for a classic mayonnaise-based dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Pour the dressing over the cooked and cooled potatoes and mix well. Add chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery, and onions for extra flavor and texture.

Sour Cream-based Dressing

If you want a lighter and tangier dressing for your potato salad, try a sour cream-based dressing. It is less heavy than mayonnaise-based dressing and adds a nice zing to the dish. Here is a recipe for a simple sour cream-based dressing:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Whisk all the ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Pour the dressing over the cooked and cooled potatoes and mix well. Add chopped chives, parsley, and dill for a fresh and herby flavor.

Mustard-based Dressing

If you prefer a more pungent and flavorful dressing for your potato salad, try a mustard-based dressing. It is a great alternative to mayonnaise-based dressing and adds a nice kick to the dish. Here is a recipe for a simple mustard-based dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Pour the dressing over the cooked and cooled potatoes and mix well. Add chopped green onions, pickles, and bacon bits for a savory and smoky flavor.

Vinaigrette Dressing

Vinaigrette dressing is a classic choice for potato salad. This tangy and flavorful dressing is made with a combination of vinegar and oil, and can be customized with a variety of herbs and spices. Here are three delicious variations to try:

Lemon Vinaigrette

Lemon vinaigrette is a bright and refreshing option for potato salad. To make it, combine freshly squeezed lemon juice with olive oil, dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing pairs well with fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and chives.

Balsamic Vinaigrette

Balsamic vinaigrette is a sweet and tangy option that adds depth of flavor to potato salad. To make it, whisk balsamic vinegar with olive oil, honey, dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing pairs well with roasted vegetables like red peppers and cherry tomatoes.

Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

Honey mustard vinaigrette is a creamy and slightly sweet option that adds richness to potato salad. To make it, whisk together dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing pairs well with crunchy vegetables like celery and red onion.

When making vinaigrette dressing, it’s important to use high-quality ingredients like extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice. You can also experiment with different types of vinegar, like red wine vinegar or champagne vinegar, to create unique flavor combinations.

Herb Dressing

If you’re looking for a fresh and flavorful dressing for your potato salad, herb dressing is a great option. Here are three variations to try:

Pesto Dressing

Pesto is a classic herb sauce that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. To make a pesto dressing for your potato salad, simply blend together the following ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup pine nuts
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil

Once blended, mix the pesto with your cooked and cooled potatoes, and enjoy!

Green Goddess Dressing

Green Goddess dressing is a tangy and herby dressing that pairs perfectly with potato salad. To make this dressing, combine the following ingredients in a blender:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Once blended, toss the dressing with your cooked and cooled potatoes, and enjoy!

Chimichurri Dressing

Chimichurri is a tangy and herbaceous sauce that originated in Argentina. To make a chimichurri dressing for your potato salad, blend together the following ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Once blended, mix the chimichurri with your cooked and cooled potatoes, and enjoy!

Other Dressing Options

Greek Yogurt Dressing

If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt is a great alternative to mayonnaise-based dressings. Greek yogurt is high in protein and lower in fat than mayonnaise, making it a great choice for those watching their calorie intake.

To make a Greek yogurt dressing for your potato salad, mix 1 cup of Greek yogurt with 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Buttermilk Dressing

Buttermilk dressing is a classic dressing that is tangy and creamy. To make buttermilk dressing for your potato salad, whisk together 1 cup of buttermilk, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Add salt and pepper to taste. For a thicker dressing, add more mayonnaise.

Tahini Dressing

Tahini dressing is a Middle Eastern-inspired dressing that is nutty and flavorful. To make tahini dressing for your potato salad, mix 1/2 cup of tahini with 1/4 cup of lemon juice, 1/4 cup of water, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 clove of minced garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste. For a thinner dressing, add more water.

There are many other dressing options you can try for your potato salad, such as:

• Balsamic Vinaigrette
• Ranch Dressing
• Honey Mustard Dressing
• Italian Dressing

Experiment with different dressings to find your favorite!

FAQs

What Goes Best with Potato Salad?

Potato salad is a versatile dish that can be paired with many different foods. It is often served as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, and other outdoor events. Here are some foods that go well with potato salad:

• Grilled meat: Potato salad pairs well with grilled meats such as chicken, steak, and burgers.
• Hot dogs: Potato salad is a classic side dish for hot dogs.
• Sandwiches: Potato salad can be served alongside sandwiches, especially those with deli meats.
• Fried chicken: Potato salad is a great side dish for fried chicken.

Why Does My Potato Salad Taste Bland?

If your potato salad tastes bland, there are a few things you can do to add more flavor:

• Seasoning: Be sure to add enough salt and pepper to your potato salad. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder or paprika.
• Acid: A little acid can help brighten the flavors of your potato salad. Try adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or chives can add a lot of flavor to potato salad.
• Mustard: Adding a spoonful of mustard to your potato salad dressing can add a tangy flavor.

Why Do You Add Vinegar to Potato Salad?

Vinegar is a common ingredient in potato salad dressing. It adds a tangy flavor and helps balance out the richness of the mayonnaise. Vinegar also helps to tenderize the potatoes, making them softer and more flavorful.