This Easy Authentic Austrian Potato Salad is a warm and tasty dish that features tender potatoes, flavorful onions, and a tangy vinegar dressing. It’s perfect for any meal!
What I love about this salad is its simplicity and heartiness. It’s a great side that pairs well with everything, and let’s be real, who doesn’t enjoy potatoes? 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Waxy Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes are best for this salad due to their creamy texture. If you can’t find these, try using fingerling or new potatoes, which also hold their shape well.
Red Onion: This adds a nice crunch and sharpness. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use green onions or shallots instead.
Vinegar: I love white wine vinegar for its lightness, but apple cider vinegar gives a nice touch as well. If you’re looking for something different, rice vinegar can be a great substitute, adding a subtle sweetness.
Oil: Vegetable oil keeps the flavor neutral, but if you want something with a bit more character, light olive oil can be a lovely choice.
Chives: These fresh herbs add brightness, but you could substitute with parsley or omit it entirely if you prefer.
How Do I Cook the Potatoes Just Right?
Cooking the potatoes perfectly is crucial for this salad. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with cold water to cover the potatoes. This ensures even cooking.
- Add salt to the water – it helps season the potatoes as they cook.
- Check for doneness by piercing with a fork after about 15 minutes. They should be tender but not mushy.
- Once cooked, let them cool a bit before peeling. This makes peeling much easier!
- Slice them just thick enough to maintain their shape without collapsing when you mix them.
Following these steps ensures your potato salad has the perfect texture and flavor. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Authentic Austrian Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds waxy potatoes (such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes)
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil or light olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional, for slight tang)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes cooking the potatoes and a little time preparing the dressing and combining the ingredients. Don’t forget to allow the salad to sit for 15-20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Place them in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a bit of salt to the water to infuse flavor as they cook. Turn the heat to high and bring the water to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they are just tender and a fork can easily pierce them, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Be careful not to overcook; you want them to hold their shape.
2. Preparing the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and let them cool slightly so they are easier to handle. Peel the potatoes while they are still warm, as this makes it easier. Slice them into about 1/4-inch thick rounds or half-moons based on their size—this ensures a nice bite in every forkful!
3. Making the Dressing:
In a medium bowl, combine the vinegar, oil, sugar, and mustard (if you’re using it). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir the mixture well until the sugar has dissolved, and everything is nicely emulsified and combined.
4. Mixing the Salad:
Finely dice the red onion and add it to the bowl with your dressing. This will mellow the onion’s flavor while it sits. Then, pour the dressing over the warm potato slices in a large bowl and gently toss to coat them with the dressing. The warmth of the potatoes will help absorb all the flavors beautifully. If needed, adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper to taste.
5. Letting It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This resting time is essential for the flavors to mingle and develop. Give it another gentle toss just before serving.
6. Final Garnish:
Right before you serve, sprinkle the salad with the chopped fresh chives to add a vibrant touch and a burst of flavor. You can enjoy this salad warm or at room temperature—both ways are delicious!
Now you’re ready to serve this delightful Easy Authentic Austrian Potato Salad! It pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes or can be enjoyed on its own as a light snack. Enjoy your cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are best for this salad, you can also use fingerling or new potatoes. Just make sure they’re not too starchy, or they might become mushy.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Potato Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but the flavors can meld nicely when refrigerated, making it tasty the next day!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to get the best flavor and texture.
What Can I Substitute for Chives?
If you don’t have chives, you can use fresh parsley or green onions as a substitute. Both will add a nice pop of color and fresh flavor to the salad!
