If you’re looking for a potato salad that’s a little bit elevated and full of flavor, this Potato Salad with Hot Smoked Salmon is your new go-to dish. Imagine creamy, tender potatoes paired with the rich, smoky goodness of hot smoked salmon, all tossed together in a tangy dressing that brings everything to life. This isn’t your average picnic salad—this one’s a showstopper. It’s the perfect balance of hearty and fresh, indulgent yet light, and a surefire way to make your taste buds do a happy dance. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it all along.
Why You’ll Love Potato Salad with Hot Smoked Salmon
This dish is like a mash-up of comfort and sophistication. It’s perfect for a casual family dinner or a more elegant gathering, and here’s why it’s sure to win everyone over:
Flavor Explosion
The hot smoked salmon adds a layer of depth and richness that will have your taste buds celebrating. It’s smoky, savory, and beautifully tender—pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes and tangy dressing.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This potato salad is a great dish for gatherings, barbecues, or even a cozy weeknight meal. It’s substantial enough to be a main course but also makes a stunning side dish to pair with grilled meats, seafood, or even a simple green salad.
Easy to Make
Despite its elegant vibe, this potato salad is surprisingly simple to prepare. The steps are straightforward, and with a little patience (and a few quality ingredients), you’ll be savoring this dish in no time.
Hearty and Light
While the potatoes make the salad hearty and filling, the hot smoked salmon lightens it up with its smoky flavor and delicate texture. It’s the perfect balance for a dish that feels indulgent but isn’t heavy.
Customizable
You can tweak the salad to suit your preferences—add more herbs, change the dressing, or toss in some extra veggies. It’s easy to make it your own!
Ingredients
This potato salad is all about fresh, flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
Potatoes
Choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or baby potatoes for a creamy, firm texture. These types of potatoes hold their shape well when cooked, making them perfect for potato salad.
Hot Smoked Salmon
The star of the dish! Hot smoked salmon is smoky, flavorful, and more delicate than cold smoked salmon. It adds a wonderful richness to the salad. You can find it at most grocery stores or fish markets.
Fresh Herbs
A mix of fresh dill, parsley, and chives brings a burst of color and freshness. They balance out the richness of the salmon and potatoes beautifully.
Red Onion
Thinly sliced red onion adds a nice bite and a touch of sweetness to the salad. It complements the richness of the salmon and gives a bit of crunch.
Mayonnaise & Greek Yogurt
A creamy dressing made from a blend of mayo and Greek yogurt gives the salad a smooth texture while adding a tangy kick. The yogurt lightens it up a bit and makes the dressing extra creamy.
Mustard
A spoonful of Dijon mustard adds a tangy punch and a bit of sharpness that cuts through the richness of the salmon and potatoes.
Lemon
Fresh lemon juice brightens up the salad and adds a zesty note that pairs perfectly with the smokiness of the salmon.
Salt and Pepper
For seasoning the potatoes and dressing to perfection!
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Ready to make a potato salad that’s totally out of the ordinary? Let’s dive in:
Boil the Potatoes
Start by placing the potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the potatoes until they’re fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let them cool for a few minutes, then cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the Salmon
While the potatoes are cooking, flake the hot smoked salmon into bite-sized pieces. Be sure to remove any bones or skin, though most hot smoked salmon should be boneless. Set the salmon aside.
Make the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking—if you want a bit more tang, add more mustard or lemon juice.
Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, flaked smoked salmon, and thinly sliced red onion. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss everything together until well-coated. Be careful not to mash the potatoes; you want to keep them intact for that lovely texture.
Add Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle the fresh dill, parsley, and chives over the salad and toss once more to distribute evenly. Garnish with extra herbs if you like for a fresh, colorful finish.
Chill and Serve
Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. This potato salad is even better after sitting for a little while, so feel free to make it ahead of time!
Nutrition Facts
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Preparation Time
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How to Serve Potato Salad with Hot Smoked Salmon
This flavorful potato salad pairs well with a variety of dishes and is perfect for a range of occasions. Here are some ideas for serving it:
As a Standalone Dish
Potato salad with hot smoked salmon can easily be the star of your meal. Serve it alongside some fresh bread or crackers for a complete, satisfying dish.
With Grilled Meats or Seafood
It’s the perfect side for grilled chicken, steak, or fish. The smoky flavor of the salmon in the salad complements grilled meats wonderfully.
With Fresh Greens
Pair this potato salad with a light, crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette is a great choice.
With Roasted Vegetables
Roasted veggies like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots make a lovely, healthy side dish to complement the creamy and smoky flavors of the potato salad.
Additional Tips
Here are a few tips to take this potato salad to the next level:
Make It Ahead
This potato salad gets even better after a few hours in the fridge. It allows the flavors to meld together and makes for an ideal make-ahead dish for picnics, parties, or gatherings.
Choose the Right Potatoes
For the best texture, go with waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or baby potatoes. These hold their shape and give a creamy, smooth texture to the salad.
Customize the Dressing
If you prefer a richer dressing, use all mayo instead of Greek yogurt. For a lighter version, you can swap out the mayo for more yogurt or add a little olive oil for extra creaminess.
Add Extra Veggies
Feel free to throw in some extra veggies like diced cucumber, capers, or even some chopped avocado for added freshness and flavor.
Leftovers
Store any leftover potato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. It’s just as delicious the next day!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use cold smoked salmon instead of hot smoked?
A1: You can, but the flavor and texture will be a bit different. Hot smoked salmon is more tender and flakey, while cold smoked salmon is a bit firmer. Either will work, but hot smoked salmon is recommended for its richer, more delicate texture.
Q2: Can I make this salad without the mayonnaise?
A2: Yes! You can substitute the mayo with more Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Or, if you want something a bit different, try using an olive oil-based dressing for a Mediterranean twist.
Q3: Can I add other ingredients to the salad?
A3: Absolutely! You can add veggies like cucumber, peas, or even avocado. Just make sure the ingredients complement the flavors of the salmon and potatoes.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. It’s best served cold, so it makes for great leftovers!
Q5: Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
A5: Yes! This potato salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. It actually tastes better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together.
Potato Salad with Hot Smoked Salmon is a delicious twist on a classic dish that brings richness, freshness, and just the right amount of indulgence. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a casual meal, it’s guaranteed to impress. Give it a try—you’re going to love it!
PrintPotato Salad with Hot Smoked Salmon Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Potato Salad with Hot Smoked Salmon is a unique twist on a classic dish, combining tender potatoes, vibrant herbs, and rich hot smoked salmon. Perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful dinner. The smoky salmon adds a savory depth to the creamy potato salad.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) baby potatoes (or any small waxy potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for the potatoes)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
- 1/2 teaspoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained (optional)
- 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
- 4 oz (115g) hot smoked salmon, flaked
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the potatoes: Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain and let the potatoes cool slightly. Once cooled enough to handle, cut them into halves or quarters, depending on size.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), olive oil, honey (if using), salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the warm, cut potatoes with the dressing, stirring gently to coat the potatoes evenly. Add the chopped dill, chives, capers, and red onion. Stir to combine.
- Add the smoked salmon: Gently fold in the hot smoked salmon, breaking it into bite-sized pieces. Be careful not to mash the potatoes or overmix.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice, if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for a chilled salad.
Notes
- Hot smoked salmon can be found at most grocery stores or fish markets. If unavailable, you can substitute with cold smoked salmon or grilled salmon.
- For extra crunch, add some toasted nuts or seeds, such as pine nuts or sunflower seeds, before serving.
- This salad can be made a few hours ahead and kept in the fridge. Just be sure to fold in the salmon just before serving to maintain its texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: European (French, Mediterranean)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 30mg