This bright and zesty potato salad is a perfect side for any meal! With fresh lemon, flavorful herbs, and a hint of tang from capers, it’s sure to be a hit at your table.
I love making this salad for picnics because it’s quick and easy! Just boil the potatoes, mix in the goodies, and you’re ready to go. It’s delicious even the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: I love using baby potatoes for their tender skin and creamy texture. You can use yellow or red potatoes, but if you’re in a pinch, any small potatoes will work fine. Just adjust cooking time for larger ones!
Capers: Capers add a wonderful briny flavor. If you’re out, green olives or pickles can be substituted for a similar tang. Just chop them up to get the right consistency!
Fresh Dill: Dill brings a fresh, vibrant taste. If fresh isn’t available, use 1 tablespoon of dried dill. However, start with less, as dried herbs are more potent. Other herbs like parsley or cilantro can also add a nice twist!
Red Onion: For a milder taste, you can swap red onion for green onions. If you’re avoiding onions entirely, try adding a small amount of garlic instead for flavor.
How Do You Cook Potatoes for a Perfect Salad?
Cooking the potatoes properly is key for this salad. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with cold water to ensure even cooking. Once boiling, reduce the heat.
- You want the potatoes tender but not mushy, so check them with a fork around the 12-minute mark.
- Let the potatoes cool slightly before mixing in the dressing to soak up the flavors without falling apart.
Following these steps will ensure your potato salad is delicious and well-textured! Enjoy making it!
Easy Lemon Herb Potato Salad with Dill and Capers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (yellow or red), halved or quartered
- 3 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard for added tanginess
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this delightful potato salad is about 20 minutes for preparation and cooking, plus at least 1 hour if you choose to chill it afterward. So, in all, it should take around 1 hour and 20 minutes to enjoy a perfectly flavored dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Potatoes:
Start by placing the baby potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Sprinkle in a little salt and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat to medium and cook until the potatoes are tender enough to be pierced with a fork, which usually takes about 12-15 minutes.
2. Drain and Cool:
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and let them cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle and prevent them from breaking when you mix the salad.
3. Mix in the Dressing:
While the potatoes are still warm, transfer them to a large bowl. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and if you like, the Dijon mustard. Gently toss everything together until the potatoes are nicely coated with the dressing!
4. Combine Additional Ingredients:
Now, add the finely chopped red onion, capers, and fresh dill to the bowl. Stir everything together gently to ensure all the ingredients are mixed well but be careful not to mash the potatoes.
5. Season to Taste:
Season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Don’t hesitate to adjust the lemon juice or olive oil if you feel it needs more zing or richness!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Top your beautiful salad with extra sprigs of dill and a slice of lemon for a lovely presentation. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, but it’s also fantastic when chilled after resting in the refrigerator for at least an hour, as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Enjoy your fresh, zesty Lemon Herb Potato Salad with Dill and Capers! It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any gathering where delicious flavors are a must!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time if using larger potatoes, as they may take longer to boil.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Potato Salad?
Leftover potato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may separate a bit while stored.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This potato salad is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it a day in advance and allow it to chill in the refrigerator. This enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious when served!
Is There a Substitute for Capers?
If you don’t have capers, green olives or chopped pickles can work well as substitutes for a similar briny flavor. Just chop them into small pieces to match the size of capers!
