Creamy Dill German Potato Salad Recipe

Creamy Dill German Potato Salad Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Potato Salad with Dill Pickles and Hard-Boiled Eggs

This creamy and tangy potato salad combines tender potatoes with a zesty dressing made from mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, dill pickle brine, and Dijon mustard. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish to any meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds yellow or gold potatoes
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (such as Fage 2%)
  • 1 tablespoon dill pickle brine
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 3 large hard-boiled eggs, divided
  • 1/3 cup chopped onion
  • 1/3 cup chopped dill pickles
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

  1. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with salted water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the potatoes for 15 to 25 minutes, or until they can be easily pierced with a fork but are still firm.
  3. Drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool.
  4. While the potatoes are cooling, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, dill pickle brine, and Dijon mustard in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  5. Peel and roughly chop two of the hard-boiled eggs. Add the chopped eggs, onion, and dill pickles to the dressing and stir until everything is evenly mixed.
  6. Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, peel them and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
  7. Add the cut potatoes to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat the potatoes evenly with the dressing.
  8. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Slice the remaining hard-boiled egg and use the slices to garnish the top of the potato salad.
  9. Serve immediately or refrigerate to chill before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories Total Fat Saturated Fat Cholesterol Sodium Total Carbohydrate Dietary Fiber Total Sugars Protein Vitamin C Calcium Iron Potassium
331 15g 3g 146mg 431mg 39g 4g 4g 11g 18mg 75mg 2mg 1032mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Origins of Creamy Dill German Potato Salad

Creamy Dill German Potato Salad has roots in the hearty, practical cuisine of Germany, where potatoes have been a staple food since their introduction from the Americas in the 16th century. Unlike traditional warm German potato salads dressed with vinegar and bacon, the creamy version emerged in the mid-20th century, influenced by modern European and American culinary trends. Adding mayonnaise and Greek yogurt transformed the dish into a richer, more indulgent variation while still honoring the classic flavors of dill and pickles that are iconic in German kitchens.

Regional Variations

In Germany, potato salads vary significantly by region. In the south, particularly Bavaria, warm potato salads with a tangy bacon-onion dressing are preferred, while northern regions often favor cold, creamy versions. The use of dill and pickles is more common in northern Germany, reflecting the region's love for pickled vegetables. This recipe mirrors the northern style while incorporating a modern creamy dressing, making it adaptable for both German and international tables.

What Sets It Apart

Unlike the classic warm German potato salad, which is vinegar-based, this creamy dill version uses a mixture of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, creating a smooth, tangy texture that coats each potato piece evenly. The addition of chopped dill pickles and pickle brine enhances the flavor profile, giving it a slightly tart and refreshing edge. Compared to American potato salad, which often relies heavily on mayonnaise alone, this recipe achieves a lighter, more balanced creaminess thanks to Greek yogurt, while retaining the herbaceous dill flavor typical of German cuisine.

Where Its Commonly Served

Creamy Dill German Potato Salad is versatile and can be served at a variety of occasions. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as bratwurst, knockwurst, or schnitzel, making it a popular side dish for summer barbecues and Oktoberfest celebrations. It also appears on picnic tables, holiday spreads, and casual family dinners, appreciated for its ease of preparation and ability to be served cold or at room temperature.

Interesting Facts

  • Dill has been cultivated in Europe for centuries and is traditionally believed to aid digestion, making it a functional addition to potato dishes.
  • The creamy variant is a relatively modern twist on the classic German salad, blending traditional flavors with contemporary textures.
  • Potatoes were initially considered ornamental in Europe before becoming a dietary staple; now, they are central to many regional specialties, including potato salads.
  • Using Greek yogurt in the dressing not only lightens the dish but also increases its protein content compared to traditional mayonnaise-only recipes.
  • Hard-boiled eggs, often used as garnish in this salad, were historically a symbol of prosperity in German households during festive occasions.

FAQ about Creamy Dill German Potato Salad Recipe

Yes, you can make this creamy dill German potato salad ahead of time. It actually tastes better after being chilled in the fridge for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Store any leftover potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 2-3 days. Be sure to give it a quick stir before serving, as it may thicken slightly after chilling.

While gold or yellow potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture and mild flavor, you can use other types of potatoes, such as red potatoes, if you prefer. Just be aware that the texture may vary slightly.

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with sour cream for a tangier flavor or use a dairy-free mayo alternative if you're looking for a vegan option. Greek yogurt can also be replaced with regular yogurt or a plant-based version.

If you'd like to add a little spice, try incorporating a small amount of chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the dressing. Just be sure to balance the heat with the creamy elements.

It typically takes 15-25 minutes to cook the potatoes, depending on their size. You want them to be tender but still firm enough to hold their shape when mixed with the dressing.

Yes, you can make the recipe without eggs if you have dietary restrictions or preferences. The eggs add richness to the salad, but it can still be delicious without them.

This creamy dill German potato salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as bratwurst or knockwurst, and is also great as a side for barbecues or picnics.

To scale up the recipe, simply adjust the ingredients proportionally. For example, if you need to serve 8 people, double all the ingredients. The cooking time for the potatoes will stay roughly the same.

Freezing is not recommended for potato salad, as the potatoes and dressing may become watery or change texture once thawed. It's best to enjoy it fresh or within a few days of preparation.