5 Simple Potato Salad Recipes You'll Want to Serve All Year Round

These upgrades prove potato salad is no one-trick wonder.

Potato Salad Recipes, including this Garlic and Herb Potato Salad Served in a Yellow Bowl
Photo: GREG DUPREE

Potato salad is commonly found on picnic tables at backyard barbecues, but that begs the question: Why don't we make potato salad throughout the year? Some might argue potato salad is the ideal side dish—it's simple to make, full of tasty ingredients, and pairs well with almost any type of meat or fish.

When you think of classic potato salad, you probably think of the creamy, mayo-based version, but plenty of varieties are made with BBQ sauce, tangy vinaigrette, or spicy mustard. Whether there's an upcoming outdoor party or you're just craving potato salad, here are some easy potato salad recipes to whip up throughout the year.

01 of 05

BBQ Potato Salad

BBQ Potato Salad Served in a White Bowl
Jennifer Causey

Who says BBQ sauce has to be reserved for just chicken and steak? Think about it: Is there a better flavor combination than potatoes, BBQ sauce, and bacon? This recipe also calls for coarse-grain mustard for a subtle kick and scallions for a touch of freshness.

02 of 05

Herb Potato Salad

Herb Potato Salad Served in a Green Bowl
Anna Williams

Every potato salad arsenal needs at least two basic recipes: one creamy (i.e., bathed in mayonnaise) and one acidic. This herb potato salad is the latter. It's a deliciously mustardy, vinegary dish that adds heaps of fresh herbs—parsley, tarragon, chives, or other herbs grown in your garden—plus scallions and olive oil.

03 of 05

Garlic and Herb Potato Salad

Garlic Herb Potato Salad in a yellow bowl with red speckled serving spoon.
Greg DuPree

If seeking a lighter potato salad recipe, look no further. Unlike traditional potato salads, this garlicky version calls for tangy vinegar, spicy, grainy mustard, and freshly chopped parsley and basil. Break out your best oversized serving bowl and display this gorgeous, herby potato salad at your next gathering.

04 of 05

Creamy Potato Salad With Bacon

Creamy Potato Salad With Bacon in a Small White Pot
Con Poulos

The name says it all: This creamy potato salad with bacon packs new potatoes with mayo, sour cream, vinegar, celery, and all the fresh herbs. Oh, and don't forget the bacon. The best part? It only takes 30 minutes to make.

05 of 05

German Beet and Potato Salad

German Beet and Potato Salad in a Serving Platter with Metal Spoon, Surrounded by Glass Cups
Victor Protasio

German potato salad is undoubtedly delicious, but adding perfectly tender golden beets makes it a dish to write home about. The cidery-mustard vinaigrette adds the perfect amount of acid, and the crunchy bacon brings texture to every bite. This mayo-less potato salad is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for serving alongside chicken, sausage, or fish.

Tips for Making Potato Salad

When making potato salad, it's important to remember that not all potatoes are created equal. Most recipes call for Yukon gold or red potatoes because they're best for holding their shape.

Russet potatoes are also a great option because they absorb more dressing; unfortunately, they tend to fall apart when cooked. Another tip is to start boiling your spuds in cold, heavily salted water—this helps avoid overcooking them.

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