This Lemon Herb Potato Salad is fresh and zesty! With tender potatoes, bright lemon juice, and a sprinkle of dill and capers, it’s a wonderful side dish for any meal.
I love how easy it is to make! Just boil, mix, and chill. Perfect for summer picnics or a cozy dinner. Plus, it’s so good, you might want to eat it straight from the bowl! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Small new potatoes or baby potatoes work great for this salad. They’re tender and hold their shape nicely. If you don’t have these, Yukon Golds or red potatoes can also be good substitutes. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness. If you lack fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is an option, though it may lack some depth. For zest, you can also use lime zest for a different citrus twist.
Dill: Fresh dill is a star here, giving a refreshing flavor. If fresh dill isn’t available, dried dill can work, but use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more potent. Alternatively, try fresh parsley or chives for a milder flavor.
Capers: These bring a salty, briny taste to the salad. If you don’t like capers, you can swap them for chopped green olives or even diced pickles for a different flair.
How Do I Cook Potatoes to Get Them Just Right?
Getting perfect potatoes is key to this salad’s success! Here’s how to cook them:
- Start with cold water in a pot; add washed and whole potatoes. This ensures even cooking.
- Add a pinch of salt. It flavors the potatoes as they cook.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cooking on low heat prevents them from becoming mushy.
- Check for doneness by poking with a fork. They should be tender but not falling apart.
- Drain and let them cool slightly before cutting. This keeps them firm for the salad.
How to Make Lemon Herb Potato Salad with Dill and Capers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds small new potatoes or baby potatoes
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious potato salad will take about 15-20 minutes of cooking time and an additional 1 hour to chill before serving. So, set aside about 1 hour and 30 minutes total. The waiting time is worth it for those flavors to meld beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly. Then, place them whole in a large pot and cover with cold water. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt to season them as they cook! Bring the water to a boil, and once boiling, reduce the heat to let them simmer. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes depending on their size.
2. Cooling and Cutting:
Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully drain them and allow them to cool a little. If some potatoes are larger, you can halve or quarter them for easier eating. This also helps the dressing soak in better!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
While the potatoes are cooling, grab a large mixing bowl. Whisk together the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This tangy dressing is what brings everything together!
4. Combine Everything:
Take your slightly warm potatoes and add them to the bowl with the lemon dressing. Gently toss them until they are well coated. You want that refreshing flavor to hug every piece of potato.
5. Mix in the Extras:
Now for the fun part! Stir in the chopped dill, capers, and sliced green onions. Give it another gentle toss to combine all those vibrant ingredients. Take a moment to taste the salad and adjust with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if you feel it needs a little oomph.
6. Chill and Serve:
Let the salad sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes to allow those lovely flavors to meld together. If you prefer, you can chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and feel free to garnish with extra dill for that pretty touch. Enjoy your delicious Lemon Herb Potato Salad!
FAQ about Lemon Herb Potato Salad with Dill and Capers
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While small new potatoes or baby potatoes work best for this recipe, you can also use Yukon Golds or red potatoes. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Dill?
If fresh dill isn’t available, you can use dried dill. Just use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, fresh parsley or chives can also add a lovely flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the potatoes may absorb some of the dressing, so you might want to add a splash of lemon juice or olive oil when you serve it again to refresh the flavors!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it a few hours or even a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
