This Easy Lemon Dill Potato Salad is a zesty and refreshing side dish. Made with tender potatoes, bright lemon juice, and fresh dill, it’s perfect for picnics or barbecues!
I can’t resist how the lemon adds a tangy twist. Plus, it’s super simple to make. Just boil, mix, and chill—perfect for a last-minute addition to any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Baby red and yellow potatoes are great for this salad as they have a nice texture. If you can’t find them, Yukon gold or fingerling potatoes work well too. Just make sure to cut them to a similar size for even cooking.
Dill: Fresh dill is key for the flavor. If you don’t have fresh, dried dill can be used, but use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, fennel fronds can give a similar taste.
Green Onions: These add a nice crunch and mild onion flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, you can substitute with chives. Regular onions are stronger, so use them sparingly if you choose that route.
How Do You Cook Potatoes to Perfection?
Getting the potatoes right is essential for a good salad. Start with cold water in the pot to ensure even cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Place potatoes in a pot and fill it with cold water, just covering them.
- Add a pinch of salt to the water. This helps season the potatoes while they cook.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, until a fork slides in easily.
Don’t overcook them! If they’re too soft, your salad will mush together. Drain them well and allow to cool slightly before mixing with the other ingredients for the best texture.
Easy Lemon Dill Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 lbs baby red and yellow potatoes, halved or quartered if large
- 3-4 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- Lemon wedges for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Lemon Dill Potato Salad takes about 25 minutes total. You’ll need roughly 15 minutes for preparation and cooking, and then at least 15 minutes for the flavors to meld (or up to 2 hours if you want to chill it). It’s a quick and refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by placing the halved potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add a pinch of salt. This helps to season the potatoes. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
2. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm potatoes, chopped green onions, fresh dill, and parsley. This is where all the fresh flavors come together, making the salad vibrant and tasty!
3. Adding the Dressing:
Now, drizzle the olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice over the potato mixture. Gently toss everything together until the potatoes are well-coated with the dressing. This ensures every bite is full of flavor!
4. Seasoning and Resting:
Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the salad to sit for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld. If you have more time, refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before serving. This salad can be enjoyed warm or chilled.
5. Serving It Up:
When ready to serve, garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon wedges, if desired. Enjoy your refreshing and zesty lemon dill potato salad!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Dill Potato Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby red and yellow potatoes are recommended for their texture and flavor, you can also use Yukon gold, fingerling potatoes, or even regular russets if you prefer. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The potato salad will keep well for up to 3 days. If the flavors seem dull after storing, you can freshen it up with a little extra lemon juice before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this salad in advance! Prepare the salad up to 2 hours ahead of serving and refrigerate. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving, as this enhances the flavors.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Dill?
If fresh dill isn’t available, you can use dried dill, but use about a third of the amount. Alternatively, consider substituting with fresh parsley or fennel fronds for a different flavor profile, or even a combination of both!
