Creamy Red Onion Potato SaladÂ
Description
Creamy Red Onion Potato Salad is a comforting and flavourful side dish that combines tender potatoes, crisp red onions, and a rich, tangy dressing. The combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, and fresh onions creates a delicious balance of creamy texture and bright flavour. This easy recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, potlucks, holiday gatherings, or as a side dish for grilled meats and sandwiches. It can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient and crowd-pleasing favourite.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
For the Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Optional Garnish
- Extra green onions
- Chopped fresh parsley
- A sprinkle of paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the potatoes.
Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not mushy. Drain thoroughly and let them cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, lemon juice (or vinegar), salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Add the cooled potatoes, chopped red onion, and sliced green onions to the dressing. Gently fold everything together until all the potatoes are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavours to blend together and improves the overall taste.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish with extra green onions, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of paprika if desired. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Allow the potatoes to cool completely before mixing with the dressing to prevent the mayonnaise from becoming oily.
- For a chunkier texture, cut the potatoes into larger cubes.
- Red onions add a mild sweetness and beautiful colour to the salad.
- This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the refrigerator.
Tips
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
- Add chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Mix in diced celery for added crunch.
- For a lighter version, substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yoghurt.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Health Benefits
- Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates for energy and contain potassium and vitamin C.
- Red onions contain antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds.
- Green onions add freshness and vitamin K.
- Homemade potato salad allows you to control ingredients and sodium levels.
- Mustard and lemon juice add flavour without excessive calories.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
Servings: 6
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Potassium: 620mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this potato salad ahead of time?
Yes. It can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
What type of potatoes work best?
Yukon Gold and red potatoes are excellent choices because they hold their shape well after cooking.
How long does potato salad last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for 3–4 days.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Celery, bell peppers, peas, or cucumbers make great additions.
Can I make it lighter?
Yes. Replace some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yoghurt for a lighter, protein-rich version.
This Creamy Red Onion Potato Salad is a simple yet delicious classic that delivers creamy texture, fresh flavour, and satisfying comfort in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.