Food Recipe Collections & Favorites 5 Simple Potato Salad Recipes You'll Want to Serve All Year Round These upgrades will prove potato salad is no one-trick wonder. By Betty Gold Betty Gold Betty Gold is the former senior digital food editor at Real Simple. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines and Ariel Klein Ariel Klein Instagram Ariel Klein is a freelance writer specializing in lifestyle, fashion, beauty, technology, home, cooking, and gardening topics. Her work has appeared in Real Simple, Well+Good, Travel+Leisure, Better Homes and Gardens, and Food & Wine magazine. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Updated on May 2, 2022 Share Tweet Pin Email Trending Videos Photo: GREG DUPREE Potato salad is most commonly found on the picnic table at a backyard barbecue, but it begs the question: why are we not making 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're probably thinking about the creamy, mayo-based version, but many varieties are made with BBQ sauce, tangy vinaigrette, or spicy mustard. And adding bacon to your potato salad? Well, that's never a bad idea. 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, but they fall apart when cooked. Another tip is to start boiling your spuds in cold, heavily salted water—this helps avoid overcooking them. Whether you have a neighborhood potluck coming up or you're just suddenly craving potato salad, here are some easy recipes to whip up throughout the year. The 5 Commandments of Potato Salad Perfection 01 of 05 BBQ Potato Salad 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, which add a touch of freshness. Fingerling Potatoes Are One of the Most Versatile Pantry Staples—Here's How to Cook Them to Perfection get the recipe 02 of 05 Herb Potato Salad 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 whatever your garden offers all work—plus scallions and olive oil. get the recipe 03 of 05 Potato Salad With Bacon and Parsley Greg DuPree If you're looking for 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. 17 Simple Mashed Potato Recipes for When You're Craving Comfort Food 04 of 05 Creamy Potato Salad With Bacon 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. Best part? It only takes 30 minutes to make. get the recipe 05 of 05 German Beet and Potato Salad Victor Protasio German potato salad is undoubtedly delicious, but adding perfectly tender golden beets—well, that's 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 recipe is hearty, flavorful, and perfect to serve alongside chicken, sausage, or fish. get the recipe Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit