Quick Potato Salad with a Pickle Twist
This quick and easy potato salad features tender potatoes, crisp pickles, and a creamy, tangy dressing, elevated by a splash of pickle brine for an irresistible flavor boost.
For 6 servings
Prepare Potatoes: Wash and optionally peel the potatoes. Cut them into approximately 1-inch cubes. Place the potato cubes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender but still hold their shape.
Cool Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet or large platter to cool completely. This step is crucial to prevent the dressing from becoming watery.
Prepare Vegetables: While the potatoes are cooling, finely dice the red onion, chop the dill pickles, and finely chop the celery.
Make Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, pickle brine, Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
Combine Ingredients: Once the potatoes are completely cool, gently add them to the bowl with the dressing. Add the chopped dill pickles, diced red onion, and chopped celery.
Mix Gently: Using a large spatula or spoon, gently fold all the ingredients together until the potatoes and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. Be careful not to mash the potatoes.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the potato salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or a splash more pickle brine for extra tang.
Chill: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably 2-4 hours, to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. Chilling also ensures the salad is refreshing.
Serve: Before serving, give the potato salad a final gentle stir. Garnish with fresh chopped dill or parsley, if desired, and serve cold.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcook Potatoes: Cook potatoes until they are just tender enough to be pierced with a fork. Overcooked potatoes will become mushy when mixed, ruining the texture of the salad.
- 2Cool Potatoes Completely: Ensure your potatoes are completely cool before adding the dressing. Warm potatoes can cause the mayonnaise to separate or become oily, and the salad will not absorb flavors as well.
- 3Season in Layers: Add salt to the potato cooking water, season the dressing, and then taste and adjust the final salad. This layered approach builds a more balanced flavor profile.
- 4Let it Rest: While 'quick' is in the title, allowing the potato salad to chill for at least an hour (or even overnight) significantly improves the flavor as the ingredients meld together.
Adapt it for your goals.
Smoky Bacon Twist
Add 1/4 cup of crispy, crumbled cooked bacon to the salad for a delightful smoky flavor and added texture.
Herby FreshnessHerby Freshness
Incorporate other fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or even a touch of tarragon for a different aromatic complexity.
Mustard Lover'sMustard Lover's
Increase the Dijon mustard to 1.5-2 teaspoons, or add a tablespoon of whole grain mustard for a sharper, more robust mustard flavor and textural contrast.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Potassium
Potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, an essential mineral that helps regulate fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions, contributing to healthy blood pressure.
Dietary Fiber
When the potato skin is left on, and with the addition of celery and pickles, this salad provides dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
Vitamin C Content
Potatoes contain Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system, promotes healthy skin, and aids in the absorption of iron.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, potato salad is often better made ahead! Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even more delicious.
