Classic Potato Salad with Salmon

Name: Classic Potato Salad with Salmon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 200g cooked salmon, flaky; 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 green onions, sliced; 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Classic Potato Salad with Salmon for gatherings and picnics. It's a dish that combines creamy potatoes with the rich flavors of salmon, creating a comforting yet elegant side. Every time I prepare this recipe, I enjoy how the vibrant ingredients pop with color and flavor. The blend of fresh herbs and a tangy dressing elevates the otherwise simple potato salad, making it a favorite among both family and friends. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up in just a short time!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:25:27.321Z

When I first experimented with adding salmon to potato salad, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The creaminess of the potatoes, paired with the tender, flaky salmon, creates a mouthwatering combination that feels luxurious yet approachable. I often use leftovers from baked salmon, but poaching works just as well and keeps all the flavors intact.

One of my favorite tips is to add a splash of lemon juice just before serving; it brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing contrast. This dish not only appeals to the eyes but also tantalizes the taste buds, leaving everyone asking for the recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that complements the salmon perfectly.
Customizable with your favorite herbs and dressings.
A perfect balance of heartiness and freshness that everyone will enjoy.

Understanding Texture and Flavor

This Classic Potato Salad with Salmon showcases a delightful interplay between creamy and flaky textures. When cooked correctly, the potatoes should be fork-tender without disintegrating, maintaining a subtle bite that complements the silky salmon. This contrast elevates each mouthful, making every bite a celebration of flavors and textures. For optimal creaminess, ensure that your mayonnaise is of good quality, as it impacts the overall richness of the salad.

Dill plays a crucial role in balancing the richness of the mayonnaise and salmon. Its fresh, herbal notes brighten the dish, cutting through some of the heaviness. For a varied flavor profile, consider substituting dill with fresh parsley or chives, both of which lend their unique characteristics while still keeping that fresh touch. Just be cautious not to overpower the salad with too many bold flavors, as it can overshadow the potatoes and salmon.

When crafting the dressing, allow it to sit for about 10 minutes after mixing; this lets the flavors marry beautifully. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle kick. Just adjust the amounts to avoid overwhelming the salad with spice. I’ve found that these little adjustments can turn this classic dish into a personalized family favorite.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing this potato salad ahead of time can enhance its flavors, making it even more enjoyable. You can whip it up a day in advance, letting it chill in the refrigerator overnight. The cooling period gives the ingredients time to meld, resulting in a harmonious taste. Just keep it stored in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors and losing its freshness.

If you find yourself with leftovers, this potato salad maintains its quality for up to three days in the refrigerator, provided it's kept sealed. The potatoes may slightly soften over time, but the flavors will continue to develop, making it a tasty option for quick lunches or snacks. To refresh the salad, consider adding a splash more lemon juice or some additional fresh herbs before serving.

While freezing is not recommended due to the mayonnaise's emulsified nature—the texture may break upon thawing—you can prepare the components separately. Cook the potatoes and prepare the dressing, then combine them with the salmon on the day you plan to serve. This way, you'll ensure that everything tastes fresh and maintains its ideal texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delightful Classic Potato Salad with Salmon:

Ingredients

4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
200g cooked salmon, flaky
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 green onions, sliced
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to create a delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Classic Potato Salad with Salmon:

Cook the Potatoes

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 10-12 minutes, until tender but not falling apart. Drain and let cool.

Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, flaky salmon, green onions, and dill. Gently fold in the dressing until evenly coated.

Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Your Classic Potato Salad with Salmon is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider including diced celery or capers. This dish also pairs well with a light white wine or sparkling water.

Ingredient Roles and Tips

Each ingredient in this salad contributes to its overall appeal, with the potatoes serving as the hearty base. Choose starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds for their creamy texture after boiling. They hold up better when mixed than waxy types, which can become mushy and waterlogged. Maintain an eye on them while cooking; overcooking can lead to a mushier salad that loses that desired structure.

The salmon is essential for adding protein and richness. If you're short on time, consider using canned salmon as a quick substitute—it still offers protein and a similar flavor profile without the need for cooking. Just be sure to drain it well to prevent excess moisture in your salad. Whether you opt for fresh or canned, ensure it's flaky to integrate seamlessly with the potatoes and dressing.

When preparing the dressing, consider using Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise. This switch introduces a tangy element while reducing the fat content. You might need to tweak the proportions of lemon juice and mustard a bit, as Greek yogurt can be thicker. Simply taste and adjust to find your perfect balance.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This potato salad is a versatile side dish that complements a wide range of entrees. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables at your summer barbecues for a refreshing touch. The brightness of the salad cuts through these rich flavors beautifully. You can also make it the star of your picnic spreads, as it’s filling yet not overly heavy.

For a fun twist, consider adding julienned cucumbers or chopped capers to the mix for a crunch. These additions provide extra texture and a burst of flavor that elevates the classic recipe. You can also experiment with different proteins such as shrimp or even a mix of seafood to give it a coastal flair, making the dish even more adaptable to your taste preferences.

If you're looking to enhance the presentation, serve the salad in a clear bowl to showcase its vibrant colors. Garnishing with extra dill or sliced cherry tomatoes can add visual appeal and freshness. This method not only makes it look delicious but also tantalizes the taste buds even before the first bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?

Yes, canned salmon works great if you're short on time. Just make sure to drain it thoroughly.

→ How long can I store the potato salad?

The potato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Certainly! Substitute the potatoes with chickpeas and use a plant-based mayo for a vegan option.

→ What are some good add-ins for this salad?

Feel free to add ingredients like hard-boiled eggs, peas, or even avocado for extra flavor and texture.