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Cozy German Potato Salad Recipe with Crispy Bacon Vinaigrette Easy and Best

Cozy German Potato Salad - featured image

A warm and comforting German potato salad featuring waxy potatoes tossed in a tangy, smoky bacon vinaigrette. Perfect as a hearty side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900g) waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Wash and scrub potatoes thoroughly. Place whole (unpeeled) in a large pot, cover with cold water by about 1 inch, add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes until a fork slides in easily but potatoes hold their shape.
  2. Drain and let cool slightly, then peel while still warm by rubbing skin off gently. Slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds or chunks.
  3. While potatoes boil, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add bacon slices and cook until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove bacon and drain on paper towels. Reserve bacon drippings in skillet.
  4. Add chopped onion to hot bacon drippings. Cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Lower heat if needed to avoid burning.
  5. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, and vegetable oil. Whisk until sugar dissolves and vinaigrette emulsifies. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Place warm potato slices in a large mixing bowl. Pour warm bacon vinaigrette over potatoes and gently toss to coat. Crumble crispy bacon over top and fold in carefully.
  7. Garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature. Let rest 15-20 minutes for flavors to meld.

Notes

Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes to hold shape and absorb dressing well. Peel potatoes while warm for easy skin removal. Reserve bacon drippings for vinaigrette to add smoky richness. Toss salad gently to avoid breaking potatoes. Let salad rest 15-20 minutes before serving for best flavor. Adjust vinegar and sugar to taste. For pork-free version, substitute bacon with smoked turkey bacon or smoked paprika and sauté onions in olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: German potato salad, bacon vinaigrette, cozy potato salad, warm potato salad, German side dish, bacon potato salad