Born from tradition and refined in my kitchen, this German potato salad is my wife Gail’s signature summer staple. With a robust mustard dressing, fragrant herbs, and optional crispy bacon, it’s a flavorful tribute to a dish that has evolved across continents. Whether served warm or chilled, each bite carries a taste of history and home.
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Gail’s Mustard-Driven German Potato Salad
A tangy, mustard-infused take on traditional German potato salad, this dish balances the bold flavors of Dijon and whole-grain mustard with the subtle sweetness of honey. Fresh herbs and crispy bacon (if desired) add layers of texture, making it a standout side at any gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Salads & Dressings
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds of red or Yukon Gold potatoes, boiled and sliced
- 1 large red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (Gail swears by the smooth, robust flavor)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard for texture
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh chives, finely chopped
- A generous sprinkle of fresh dill, minced
- 4 slices of crispy bacon, crumbled (optional, but highly recommended)
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes until tender. Allow them to cool slightly before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm potato slices and chopped red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, olive oil, honey, salt, and black pepper. Pour this glorious concoction over the potatoes and onion, gently tossing until each spud is coated in the golden elixir.
- Sprinkle in the fresh chives and dill, adding a burst of color and fragrance to the mix. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in the crispy bacon for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour, letting the flavors mingle and dance.
- Serve it alongside a sizzling frankfurter, and you’ll be transported to a German beer garden without leaving your backyard. The tangy kick from the mustard, the crunch of bacon, and the fragrant herbs elevate Gail’s creation to a level where it competes for the spotlight at any summer gathering.
