Potato salad always brings back cherished memories for me. Growing up, every family gathering had a giant bowl of it sitting proudly on the table. My grandmother, with her well-worn apron and warm smile, would spend hours perfecting her recipe. The kids would impatiently hover around, waiting for that first scoop. This Bacon Potato Salad with Sweet Mustard Dressing is a delightful twist on the classic version I remember.
Potato salads are a staple at barbecues, picnics, and potlucks. They’re versatile, delicious, and easy to make ahead. This version brings in the smoky goodness of bacon and a tangy sweetness from the mustard dressing, which sets it apart from the traditional creamy mayonnaise-based salads. The red potatoes, with their firm texture and mild flavor, hold up well and add a lovely color to the dish. Keeping the skins on not only saves time but also adds a bit of extra nutrition and a rustic touch.
One summer, while visiting friends in the South, I was introduced to the idea of adding capers to potato salad. Initially, I was skeptical, but the briny pop of flavor they bring is truly magical. They complement the sweetness of the mustard and the smoky bacon perfectly. If you’re not a fan of capers, you can easily substitute them with finely chopped pickles or olives for a different yet equally delicious twist.
This recipe is straightforward and forgiving. If you prefer a creamier salad, you can increase the amount of mayonnaise or use a combination of mayo and Greek yogurt for a tangy touch. For those who love a bit of heat, adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing can give it a spicy kick. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley not only add a burst of color but also a refreshing flavor that balances the richness of the bacon and dressing.
This Bacon Potato Salad with Sweet Mustard Dressing is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. It’s easy to make, packs a punch of flavor, and can be made ahead of time, leaving you free to enjoy the company of your guests. Serve it chilled for the best results, and watch as it quickly becomes a crowd favorite.
Preparing Bacon Potato Salad with Sweet Mustard Dressing
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Ingredients
- 3 pounds red potatoes, large diced, unpeeled, and washed
- 8 slices smoked bacon, cooked crispy and roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- ¼ cup yellow mustard
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons chopped capers
- ½ cup mayonnaise or jarred salad dressing
- 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley
- 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced
- pinch of salt
Directions
- Simmer the diced potatoes gently in salted boiling water until just tender. Avoid overcooking to prevent them from breaking apart.
- Drain the potatoes and spread them on a baking sheet to cool quickly. Place the sheet in the fridge for about 30 minutes to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients except the potatoes.
- Pour the mixture over the cooled potatoes and toss thoroughly to combine. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of potato for this salad?
Yes, you can substitute red potatoes with Yukon Gold or russet potatoes. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How long can I store bacon potato salad in the fridge?
You can store the bacon potato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to consume it within this time frame.
Is it possible to make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this salad a day in advance. In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste.
Can I make this salad without mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use a mayonnaise substitute like Greek yogurt or sour cream. This will alter the flavor slightly but will still result in a delicious potato salad.
What can I add to make this salad more flavorful?
To add more flavor, consider mixing in ingredients such as dill pickles, hard-boiled eggs, or a dash of paprika. These additions can enhance the taste and make the salad more interesting.
How can I make this salad healthier?
For a healthier version, use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, and consider adding more vegetables like celery or carrots. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of sugar and bacon used.
Bacon Potato Salad with Sweet Mustard Dressing
Ingredients
- 3 pounds red potatoes diced large, unpeeled, and washed
- ½ cup mayonnaise or jarred salad dressing
- ¼ cup yellow mustard
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 small red bell pepper finely diced
- 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion
- 3 tbsp capers chopped
- 3 tbsp chopped cilantro or parsley
- 8 slices of smoked bacon cooked crispy and roughly chopped
- ½ tsp black pepper freshly ground
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Gently simmer the diced potatoes in salted boiling water until just fork-tender. Be careful not to overcook to avoid them breaking apart.
- Drain the potatoes and spread them on a cookie sheet to cool quickly. Placing the sheet in the fridge for about half an hour helps them cool completely.
- In a large bowl, mix together all ingredients except for the potatoes.
- Pour the mixture over the cold potatoes and toss well to combine. Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
