Potato salad with dill is the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors that make it a must-have side dish for BBQs, picnics, and family gatherings. This recipe brings together the zesty crunch of pickles, the richness of sour cream, and the aromatic touch of fresh dill to create a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the best potato salad with dill—from choosing the right potatoes to crafting the perfect dressing. Whether you prefer a smooth and creamy texture or enjoy a bit of crunch, this easy-to-follow recipe will ensure you get the most delicious results every time!
What Makes Potato Salad with Dill So Special?
Potato salad is a classic dish, but adding fresh dill gives it a herby, tangy, and slightly citrusy twist that elevates the flavors. Dill also pairs perfectly with creamy mayo and sour cream, creating a rich, well-balanced dressing.
This dish is perfect for summer picnics, BBQs, and potlucks, as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. The combination of potatoes, pickles, mustard, and onions makes every bite a mix of creamy, crunchy, and tangy goodness.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- It’s creamy, flavorful, and tangy.
- It uses simple ingredients you likely already have.
- You can make it ahead of time for easy meal prep.
- It’s a perfect side dish for BBQs, steak, hamburgers, and more.
Best Potatoes to Use for a Creamy Dill Potato Salad
One of the most important steps in making potato salad is choosing the right potatoes. The texture of your potato salad with Dill recipe will depend on whether you pick waxy or starchy potatoes.
Best Potatoes for Potato Salad with Dill
- Yukon Gold – These hold their shape well, are slightly creamy, and have a buttery taste.
- Red Potatoes – A great waxy option that stays firm and tender after boiling.
- New Potatoes – Their thin skin and firm texture make them perfect for potato salad.
Potatoes to Avoid
- Russet Potatoes – While they are delicious, they can become mushy when boiled, making them less ideal for a creamy potato salad.
Choosing the best potato ensures your potato salad with dill stays tender yet firm, making it the perfect side dish for any meal.
How to Cook Potatoes for the Perfect Salad Texture
Cooking the potatoes properly is essential to achieving the best texture for your potato salad recipe. Here’s the best method to ensure they are tender, not mushy.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Start with Cold Water – Place your potatoes in a saucepan and cover them with cold water.
- Season the Water – Always season with salt to enhance flavor.
- Boil Until Tender – Cook until pierced with a fork, about 12–15 minutes.
- Drain and Cool – Remove from heat and let the potatoes cool to room temperature before mixing.
Pro Tips for Perfect Potatoes
- Do not overcook – Overcooked potatoes will become mushy.
- Use cold water to start – This helps them cook evenly.
- Chill before mixing – Let them sit for a couple of hours in the fridge to firm up.
Perfectly cooked and cooled potatoes ensure your potato salad with dill has the best texture and flavor.
Essential Ingredients for the Best Potato Salad with Dill
To make the best potato salad with dill, you’ll need fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring out the dish’s creamy, tangy, and herby flavors. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- Potatoes – Use Yukon Gold, Red, or New potatoes for the best texture.
- Fresh Dill – Adds a herby, slightly citrusy taste that makes this salad refreshing.
- Sour Cream and Mayo – A combination of creamy mayo and sour cream creates a rich, tangy dressing.
- Pickles – For a tangy, crunchy contrast to the creamy dressing.
- Green Onions – Adds a mild onion flavor without being overpowering.
- Dijon Mustard – Enhances the tangy taste of the dressing.
- Wine Vinegar – Balances the richness of the creamy dressing.
- Salt and Pepper – Season with salt and enhance all the flavors.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
- Chopped Cabbage – Adds extra crunch.
- Tomato Slices – For a fresh, juicy twist.
- Olive Oil – If you prefer a lighter dressing.
Using fresh, quality ingredients ensures your potato salad with Dill recipe is flavorful, creamy, and well-balanced.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Delicious Potato Salad with Dill
Now that we have our ingredients ready let’s go through the step-by-step process to make this tasty and creamy dill potato salad.
Step 1: Cook and Cool the Potatoes
- Peel (if preferred) and cut the potatoes into bite-sized chunks.
- Place them in a saucepan and cover with cold water.
- Add salt to taste and boil until the potatoes are tender but not mushy.
- Drain and let the potatoes cool to room temperature before mixing.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together:
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup creamy mayo
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 3: Assemble the Potato Salad
- Add them to the bowl with the cooled potatoes.
- Sprinkle fresh chopped dill and green onions over the potatoes.
- Toss the ingredients together until evenly coated.
- Let it sit in the fridge for a couple of hours to enhance the flavors.
This easy-to-follow recipe ensures you get a creamy, tangy, and flavorful dish every time.
The Best Dressing for a Potato Salad with Dill
The dressing is what makes this potato salad with dill rich, tangy, and full of flavor. A great dressing has a balance of creaminess, acidity, and seasonings.
Key Ingredients for a Perfect Dressing
- Sour Cream & Mayo – The base of the dressing, making it creamy and rich.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy kick.
- Wine Vinegar & Lemon Juice – Gives a slight acidity to balance the creamy texture.
- Olive Oil – Provides a smooth consistency.
- Fresh Dill – Enhances the herby and fresh flavor.
How to Adjust the Dressing to Your Taste
- For a tangier salad – Add extra Dijon mustard or wine vinegar.
- For a lighter version – Replace mayo with Greek yogurt.
- For extra crunch – Toss in some chopped pickles or cabbage.
This creamy dill potato salad dressing pairs perfectly with the tender potatoes, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
How Long Does Potato Salad Last in the Fridge?
One of the most common questions about potato salad with dill is how long it stays fresh. Proper storage ensures the flavors develop well and keeps the salad safe to eat.
How Long Can You Keep Potato Salad in the Fridge?
- Up to 4 days if stored in an airtight container.
- Should always be refrigerated—never leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
- The flavors actually get better after a couple of hours in the fridge, making it an excellent make-ahead dish.
Tips for Storing Potato Salad
- Always refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container.
- If the salad looks watery, give it a quick stir before serving.
- If you’re storing it for more than a day, wait to add fresh chopped dill just before serving.
Proper storage keeps your potato salad recipe fresh, creamy, and full of flavor.
Can You Make Potato Salad with Dill Ahead of Time?
Yes! Potato salad with dill is one of those dishes that tastes better the next day. Making it ahead of time allows the flavors to blend, creating a more delicious and creamy salad.
How to Make It Ahead of Time
- Cook the potatoes and let them cool completely before mixing.
- Prepare the dressing separately and store in the fridge.
- Combine everything together a few hours before serving.
- Let it sit in the fridge for at least a couple of hours for the best flavor.
How to Refresh Potato Salad Before Serving
- If the salad looks dry, add a small amount of sour cream or olive oil.
- Sprinkle fresh dill on top for an extra herby kick.
This method ensures a creamy, flavorful, and fresh dish every time.
What to Serve with Potato Salad – Tasty Pairings
A creamy dill potato salad is a perfect side dish that pairs well with many main dishes. Whether you’re planning a BBQ, picnic, or dinner party, here are some delicious pairing ideas:
Best Dishes to Serve with Potato Salad
- BBQ Favorites – Grilled steak, hamburgers, or BBQ chicken.
- Roast Chicken – The creamy salad balances the savory flavors of roasted meats.
- Picnic Food – Serve with cabbage slaw, tomato salad, or fresh vegetables.
- Light Summer Meals – Pair with grilled fish or vegetarian options.
Perfect Side Dish for Gatherings
This potato salad with Dill recipe is a great addition to:
- Summer cookouts and BBQs.
- Holiday meals and dinner parties.
- Quick weekday lunches when paired with a vegetable side dish.
With so many serving possibilities, this potato salad with dill is a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Potato Salad with Dill
Even with a simple potato salad recipe, a few mistakes can affect the texture and flavor. Here are some of the most common errors and how to avoid them:
1. Overcooking or Undercooking the Potatoes
- Overcooked potatoes become mushy, while undercooked ones remain too firm.
- To get perfectly tender potatoes, cook them until they can be pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.
2. Not Letting the Potatoes Cool Properly
- Mixing hot potatoes with the dressing can cause the salad to become watery.
- Always let them sit until they reach room temperature before mixing with the dressing.
3. Using the Wrong Potatoes
- Russet potatoes break down easily, making the salad too soft.
- Stick to waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold, Red, or New potatoes.
4. Skipping the Seasoning
- Potatoes absorb flavors better when seasoned during cooking.
- Always season with salt while boiling the potatoes.
5. Not Storing the Salad Properly
- Always refrigerate potato salad to prevent spoilage.
- Store in an airtight container and consume within 4 days.
FAQs
What Not to Do When Making Potato Salad with Dill?
When making potato salad, avoid these common mistakes to ensure the best flavor and texture:
Overcooking or Undercooking the Potatoes – Overcooked potatoes become mushy, while undercooked ones stay too firm. Boil them until they are fork-tender but still hold their shape.
Skipping the Cooling Step – Mixing hot potatoes with the dressing can make the salad watery. Always let them cool to room temperature before adding other ingredients.
Using the Wrong Potatoes – Russet potatoes break down easily, making the salad too soft. Stick to waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Red potatoes for the best texture.
Not Seasoning Properly – Season with salt while boiling the potatoes for better flavor absorption.
Adding Too Much Dressing at Once – Start with a small amount and mix. You can always add more if needed.
Leaving the Salad at Room Temperature Too Long – Potato salad should be refrigerated and not left out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Does Dill Go with Potatoes?
Yes! Dill is an excellent herb to pair with potatoes. Its fresh, slightly citrusy, and herby flavor complements the creamy texture of potato salad. Dill also enhances the taste of roasted, mashed, and boiled potatoes, making it a versatile and flavorful choice.
For a delicious twist, try adding chopped fresh dill to your potato salad dressing, roasted potatoes, or even potato soup.
Is Dill Compatible with Potatoes?
Absolutely! Dill and potatoes work exceptionally well together. The earthy, starchy nature of potatoes pairs perfectly with the bright, aromatic notes of dill. This combination is popular in many cuisines, including German, Eastern European, and Mediterranean dishes.
Dill can be used in potato salad, dill butter roasted potatoes, and even creamy mashed potatoes to add a fresh and zesty taste.
What’s the Difference Between Potato Salad and Amish Potato Salad?
The primary difference between classic potato salad and Amish potato salad is the dressing and flavor profile.
✔ Traditional Potato Salad:
Made with mayonnaise, mustard, and sour cream for a creamy and tangy taste.
Includes ingredients like pickles, onions, and fresh dill.
Typically less sweet compared to Amish potato salad.
✔ Amish Potato Salad:
Uses a sweeter dressing made with mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, and mustard.
Often includes hard-boiled eggs for extra richness.
Has a more pronounced sweet and tangy flavor compared to regular potato salad.
Both versions are delicious, but if you prefer a sweet and tangy potato salad, go for Amish potato salad. If you like a savory and herby taste, a classic potato salad with dill is the best choice!
Conclusion
This potato salad with dill is a creamy, tangy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ, picnic, or dinner party, this easy-to-follow recipe ensures a delicious side dish every time.
Key Takeaways for the Best Potato Salad with Dill
✔ Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Red potatoes for the best texture.
✔ Boil until fork-tender and let them cool before mixing.
✔ Make the dressing with sour cream, mayo, mustard, and vinegar for a perfect balance of flavors.
✔ Store in the fridge for at least a couple of hours before serving to enhance the taste.
✔ Serve with BBQ favorites, grilled meats, or fresh vegetable dishes.
Looking for more delicious salad recipes? Check out these amazing collections:
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Related Recipes You Might Love
Want to explore more salads and side dishes? Check out these delicious recipes:
- Potato Salad with Dill – A creamy and tangy classic that pairs perfectly with any meal.
- Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans – A sweet and savory twist on a traditional favorite.
- Chick-fil-A Kale Salad (Copycat Recipe) – A healthy and refreshing salad for any occasion.
- Macaroni and Tomatoes – A simple yet delicious pasta side dish.
- Tomatoes and Rice – A comforting and flavorful Southern-style dish.
- Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole – A hearty and satisfying meal with a rustic touch.
For more homemade meal ideas, visit Elyse Recipes and explore a variety of delicious dishes!
This potato salad with Dill recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results with us on social media! Happy cooking!
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Potato Salad with Dill – A Fresh and Tangy Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy potato salad with dill is the perfect combination of tangy, herby, and savory flavors, making it an ideal side dish for BBQs, picnics, and family gatherings. Made with tender Yukon Gold or red potatoes, a rich dressing of sour cream and mayo, and a touch of Dijon mustard and pickles, this salad is bursting with fresh flavor. The addition of fresh dill elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness, making it a refreshing and crowd-pleasing dish!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold or red potatoes, diced
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup dill pickles, diced
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:
- ½ cup chopped cabbage for extra crunch
- Sliced cherry tomatoes for a fresh twist
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (for added richness)
Instructions
Cook the Potatoes:
- Peel (if desired) and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Place them in a pot and cover with cold water.
- Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
- Cook until fork-tender (about 12–15 minutes), then drain and let cool.
Make the Dressing:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayo, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, and olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Salad:
- Add the cooled potatoes to a large bowl.
- Sprinkle with dill pickles, green onions, and fresh dill.
- Pour the dressing over the potatoes and toss gently to combine.
Chill & Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Garnish with extra fresh dill before serving.
Notes
Make-Ahead Friendly: The salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge, so it’s a great prep-ahead dish.
✔ Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
✔ Serving Ideas: Pairs well with BBQ chicken, grilled steak, or sandwiches for a complete meal.
✔ Customization: Swap mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version!
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (⅙ of the recipe)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Potato Salad, Dill Potato Salad, Creamy Potato Salad, BBQ Side Dish, Summer Salad, Picnic Recipes
