Name: Healthy Potato Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (cut into 1-inch pieces); 2 stalks celery (diced); 1 cup red onions (diced); 2 tablespoons capers; 4 pieces red radishes (halved and thinly sliced); 1/2 cup chives (chopped); 2 to 4 tablespoons fresh dill (optional); 1 teaspoon celery seed (optional); 1 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional); Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Potato salad has long been a staple at summer barbecues, potlucks, and family gatherings. However, traditional recipes often pack in calories and unhealthy fats. This Healthy Potato Salad is a nutritious twist on the classic dish, using wholesome ingredients that still deliver on flavor. With a creamy dressing made from Greek yogurt and mayonnaise, this salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Let’s dive in and create a vibrant and tasty potato salad that everyone will enjoy!

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Healthy Potato Salad recipe is reliable for several reasons. First, it uses fresh, whole ingredients that are easy to find in any grocery store. The balance of flavors, from tangy Dijon mustard to bright lemon juice, creates a deliciously creamy texture without overwhelming the palate. Furthermore, it’s adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic or enjoying it as a side dish at dinner, this potato salad is sure to impress.

What We’re Using

2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces: These potatoes are creamy and hold their shape well when cooked.
2 celery stalks, diced: Adds a lovely crunch and freshness.
1 cup diced red onions: For a bit of bite and sweetness.
2 tablespoons capers: These give a briny flavor that elevates the dish.
4 red radishes, halved and thinly sliced: Adds color and a peppery crunch, with some reserved for garnish.
1/2 cup chopped chives: Fresh chives provide a mild onion flavor, with some reserved for garnish.
2 to 4 tablespoons fresh dill, optional: Dill adds a fresh herbaceous note.
1 teaspoon celery seed, optional: Enhances the celery flavor.
1 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt: A healthier alternative to sour cream, I like Stonyfield Grassfed.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: I recommend Sir Kensington’s for its creamy texture and flavor.
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: For tanginess and depth of flavor.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens up the salad.
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps to emulsify the dressing.
3 garlic cloves, minced: For an aromatic punch.
1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon turmeric, optional: Adds a warm color to the salad.
Freshly ground black pepper: To taste, for a hint of spice.

Recommended Tools

Large pot: For boiling the potatoes.
Colander: To drain the potatoes after cooking.
Mixing bowl: For combining the salad ingredients.
Whisk: To mix the dressing ingredients smoothly.
Knife and cutting board: For chopping vegetables.
Serving spoon: To serve the salad easily.

Step-by-Step: Healthy Potato Salad

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Start by placing your 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot. Fill it with cold water, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Drain and Cool

Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully drain them in a colander. Allow the potatoes to cool for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it prevents the salad from becoming mushy.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

While the potatoes are cooling, prepare the other ingredients. Dice the 2 celery stalks, chop the 1 cup of red onions, halve and slice the 4 red radishes, and chop the 1/2 cup of chives. If you’re using fresh dill, chop it as well.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 1 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and minced 3 garlic cloves. Season with 1 teaspoon of sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, diced celery, red onions, capers, radishes, chives, and dill (if using). Pour the dressing over the salad and gently fold everything together until the potatoes are well coated.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and garnish with reserved radishes and chives.

Fit It to Your Goals

For a vegan option, substitute Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives.
If you’re looking to reduce calories, use less mayonnaise and increase the amount of Greek yogurt.
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or pickles for additional flavor and nutrition.

Don’t Do This

Don’t skip the cooling step for the potatoes; it’s essential for the right texture.
Avoid overcooking the potatoes, as they can become mushy and lose their shape.
Don’t use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt; they often contain added sugars or fillers that detract from flavor.
Be careful not to add too much salt at the beginning; you can always adjust after mixing.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

This Healthy Potato Salad is best enjoyed chilled, so make sure to refrigerate any leftovers. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you need to rewarm it, do so gently in the microwave, but keep in mind that it’s delicious served cold or at room temperature.

Final Bite

Creating a Healthy Potato Salad is not just about substituting ingredients; it’s about enhancing flavors while maintaining a nutritious profile. With the right balance of creamy dressing, fresh vegetables, and seasoning, you’ll end up with a salad that is as satisfying as it is wholesome. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or simply looking for a delicious side dish to accompany your dinner.

So, gather your friends and family, whip up this delightful Healthy Potato Salad, and enjoy the compliments that come your way. It’s a dish that not only nourishes but also brings people together around the table. Enjoy!