Smoked Salmon Potato Salad
A creamy and refreshing potato salad featuring tender Yukon Gold potatoes, flaky smoked salmon, and a tangy dill dressing. It's an elegant and satisfying dish perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or a light lunch.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Cook the Potatoes
- b.Place the whole, unpeeled potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water by at least 1 inch.
- c.Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- d.Reduce heat to a steady simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- e.Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool for about 10-15 minutes, until they are just cool enough to handle.
- f.Once slightly cooled, the skins should peel off easily. Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Dressing
- b.While the potatoes are cooling, prepare the dressing in a large mixing bowl (the one you'll serve from).
- c.Whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, finely chopped red onion, celery, fresh dill, capers, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth and well combined.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine Potatoes and Dressing
- b.Add the still-warm potato cubes to the bowl with the dressing.
- c.Gently fold with a rubber spatula until the potatoes are evenly coated. The warmth of the potatoes helps them absorb the dressing's flavor more effectively.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Add Salmon and Season
- b.Gently fold in the flaked hot-smoked salmon, being careful not to break up the pieces too much.
- c.Season with 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
- d.Gently stir one last time, then taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Chill and Serve
- b.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. For best results, chill for 1-2 hours.
- c.Before serving, give it a gentle stir. Garnish with extra fresh dill if desired. Serve chilled.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or fingerlings. They hold their shape better after boiling compared to starchy potatoes like Russets.
- 2Tossing the potatoes with the dressing while they are still warm is key. They act like a sponge and absorb the flavors of the dressing much better.
- 3For a milder onion flavor, soak the chopped red onion in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain thoroughly before adding to the dressing.
- 4Be gentle when folding in the smoked salmon. You want to keep the flakes intact for the best texture and presentation.
- 5This salad tastes even better the next day. If making ahead, you may want to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten it up.
Adapt it for your goals.
Lighter Version
For a lower-fat option, replace the sour cream and half of the mayonnaise with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt.
Extra CrunchExtra Crunch
Add 1/2 cup of chopped English cucumber or a finely diced apple for a refreshing crunch and a hint of sweetness.
Add EggsAdd Eggs
Fold in 2-3 chopped hard-boiled eggs along with the salmon for extra protein and a classic potato salad feel.
Different HerbsDifferent Herbs
Incorporate other fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or tarragon along with the dill for a more complex flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Smoked salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting a healthy cardiovascular system.
Excellent Source of Protein
Both the salmon and the dairy in the dressing provide high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle maintenance, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Provides Key Vitamins and Minerals
Potatoes are a good source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and Vitamin C, an important antioxidant. The vegetables add extra vitamins and fiber.
Frequently asked questions
A serving of this salad contains approximately 525 calories, though this can vary based on the specific brands of mayonnaise and sour cream used.
