Description
Creamy Bacon Potato Salad
Ingredients
2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Cook the Potatoes: Boil the baby potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and let cool.
Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Combine the Salad: Add the cooled potatoes, crumbled bacon, and diced red onion to the dressing. Toss until everything is well coated.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with extra parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~280 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. Start by placing the halved baby potatoes in a large pot of cold, generously salted water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 12-15 minutes until easily pierced with a fork. Drain immediately and spread on a baking sheet to cool completely; this prevents mushiness. While potatoes cool, cook the bacon in a skillet until crisp, then drain on paper towels and crumble. In your serving bowl, thoroughly whisk the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Once the potatoes are at room temperature, add them to the dressing along with the crumbled bacon and finely diced red onion. Gently fold the mixture until evenly coated, taking care not to break the potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad is the ultimate side dish. Serve it alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, or barbecue chicken at your next cookout. For a heartier meal, top it with a grilled chicken breast or serve it with a simple green salad. It also makes an excellent addition to a picnic or potluck spread. For presentation, transfer to a clean bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra twist of black pepper.
How-to Summary
In brief: Boil and cool halved baby potatoes. Cook and crumble bacon. Whisk mayo, Dijon, vinegar, parsley, salt, and pepper for the dressing. Gently combine cooled potatoes, bacon, and red onion with the dressing. Chill for 30+ minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this potato salad ahead of time? Absolutely. In fact, making it a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to develop more deeply. Store it covered in the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise? For a lighter version, substitute full-fat Greek yogurt or a half-and-half mix of mayo and sour cream. The tanginess complements the other flavors well.
Do I have to peel the potatoes? No. The skin on baby potatoes is thin and tender, adding texture and nutrients. Peeling is not necessary.
How can I make it crispier? For extra texture, reserve some bacon crumbles and red onion to sprinkle on top just before serving. You can also add a handful of chopped celery.
How long will leftovers keep? Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, leftovers will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Stir before serving again.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding potatoes while hot: This causes the dressing to break and become greasy. Always cool potatoes completely.
- Overcooking the potatoes: This leads to a mushy salad. Test for doneness a minute early.
- Under-seasoning the boiling water: Potatoes absorb salt best while cooking. Salt the water like the sea.
- Over-mixing: Folding gently preserves the potato halves’ shape and texture.
- Skipping the chill time: The 30-minute rest is crucial for the flavors to marry.
Conclusion
This Creamy Bacon Potato Salad strikes the perfect balance between rich, smoky, and tangy flavors. Its simplicity belies its incredible taste, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any casual gathering. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a side dish that might just steal the show. Remember to plan for the essential chilling time, as it transforms the ingredients into a cohesive, delicious masterpiece. Enjoy!