Name: Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad: A Creamy Summer Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds Small New Potatoes (Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes are great substitutes.); 1/4 cup Fresh Dill (Use dried dill sparingly, about 1-2 tablespoons.); 1/4 cup Red Onion (Can use yellow onion to reduce the bite.); 2 tablespoons Capers (Olives can work as an alternative.); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt makes a lighter version.); 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (Opt for low-fat varieties for a lighter touch.); 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (Lemon juice could replace it if needed.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Feel free to swap with other mustards.); Salt (Adjust to your taste.); Freshly Ground Black Pepper (Adjust to your taste.)

One warm summer afternoon, the scent of fresh dill mingled in the air as I whipped up a dish that would soon become a staple at our gatherings: Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad. This delightful side dish effortlessly merges tender new potatoes with a creamy, tangy dressing, making it the perfect complement to barbecues and picnics. What’s more, this recipe is beginner-friendly and can be prepped in a snap! Whether you’re aiming to impress at a potluck or simply elevate a weeknight dinner, this Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad is sure to be a hit. Don’t you just love dishes that bring everyone together? Dive into this vibrant recipe and discover how easy it is to create a refreshing taste of summer!

Why is this salad a must-try?

Bright, Fresh Ingredients: This Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad celebrates seasonal produce, featuring creamy new potatoes and vibrant dill that make every bite feel like a summer escape.

Beginner-Friendly: You don’t need to be a culinary expert to make this dish shine; it’s as easy as mixing a few ingredients.

Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks or BBQs, this salad’s creamy dressing and delightful crunch are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Versatile Flavor: Feel free to customize with additions like smoked salmon or hard-boiled eggs for a unique twist, just like you might find in a classic German Potato Pancakes.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it the day before and let the flavors meld beautifully, saving you time on busy summer days.

Perfect Pairing: Enjoy it with grilled meats or alongside a refreshing Cucumber Salad Refresh for a complete meal!

Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad Ingredients

• Fresh ingredients for a delightful dish.

For the Salad

Small New Potatoes – Provide a buttery texture and maintain shape during cooking; Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes are great substitutes.
Fresh Dill – Offers a vibrant, herbaceous flavor that defines the dish; use dried dill sparingly, about 1-2 tablespoons.
Red Onion – Adds sweetness and crunch; yellow onion can reduce the bite if desired.
Capers – Introduce briny umami bursts; if unavailable, olives can work as an alternative.

For the Dressing

Sour Cream – Enhances creaminess in the dressing; Greek yogurt makes a lighter version.
Mayonnaise – Thickens the dressing; opt for low-fat varieties for a lighter touch.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Brightens flavors with tang; lemon juice could replace it if needed.
Dijon Mustard – Infuses a smooth heat, aiding in emulsification; feel free to swap with other mustards, keeping flavor in mind.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing the dish; adjust to your taste.

This Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad combines these fresh, colorful ingredients to create a delightful summer side dish you won’t want to miss!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad

Step 1: Clean and Prepare Potatoes
Begin by thoroughly washing 1.5 pounds of small new potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt. Cut each potato into bite-sized pieces, ensuring to keep the skins on for added texture and flavor. This initial step sets the stage for a delicious Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad that showcases the creamy potatoes beautifully.

Step 2: Cook Potatoes
In a large pot, add the prepared potato pieces and cover them with cold salted water. Bring the pot to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the potatoes to cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but not falling apart. This ensures the potatoes maintain their delightful shape in the salad.

Step 3: Make Dressing
While the potatoes are cooking, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together ½ cup of sour cream, ¼ cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Continue whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This easy dressing is what brings the Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad together with its tangy and rich flavor.

Step 4: Season Dressing
Once your dressing is smooth, taste it and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to preference. A dash or two will enhance the overall flavors, making the dressing pop. Adjusting the seasoning here is vital for ensuring the perfect balance in your Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
After the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and let them cool slightly for about 5 minutes. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm potatoes with freshly chopped dill, ¼ cup of diced red onion, and 2 tablespoons of capers. Gently fold in the creamy dressing using a spatula, being careful to maintain the integrity of the potatoes.

Step 6: Chill
Once everything is combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the refreshing taste of your Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad.

Step 7: Final Adjustments
Before serving, take the salad out of the fridge and give it a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. Taste once more and make any final adjustments to the seasoning if necessary. This last touch will ensure every bite of your Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad is perfectly delicious for your guests!

Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad Variations

Feel free to customize your Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad to make it uniquely yours, enhancing its delightful flavors!

Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream and mayonnaise with silken tofu and a splash of lemon juice for a creamy, plant-based version. The texture will remain rich, offering a delightful bite.
Herb Medley: Swap out the fresh dill for a mix of parsley and chives to bring a new flavor twist. This adds a fresh green touch while keeping the salad vibrant and tasty.
Smoky Flavor: Introduce smoked salmon into the mix for a savory depth that compliments the creamy dressing perfectly. The smokiness elevates the whole dish, making it a gourmet delight.
Crunchy Additions: Toss in diced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch and freshness. These additions not only enhance the texture but also bring in a refreshing taste that’s great for hot summer days.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: For extra protein, fold in chopped hard-boiled eggs, making this salad even more satisfying. The richness of the egg balances the tangy dressing beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat. This simple twist transforms the salad into a delightful spiced version that excites the palate.
Nutty Flavor: Mix in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added flavor and crunch. The nuts bring an earthy element that perfectly contrasts the creaminess of the dressing.
Vegan Twist: Use plant-based sour cream and mayonnaise to create a fully vegan Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad. It’s an easy swap that keeps the essence of the dish while catering to dietary preferences.

Don’t forget, you can pair your salad with additional favorites like Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs for a comforting meal or enjoy it alongside a refreshing Sweet Potato Lentil Curry for a vibrant combo!

Make Ahead Options

These Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy dressing and chop the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and keep the chopped dill, red onion, and capers separate to maintain their freshness. The cooked potato pieces can be prepared and cooled beforehand, just remember to refrigerate them as well. When you’re ready to serve, combine everything gently, adding the dressing last to prevent sogginess. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful, time-saving salad that tastes just as fresh and delicious as if it were made that day!

What to Serve with Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad

Enhance your summer gatherings with perfectly paired dishes that complement this creamy, tangy side.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, marinated chicken offers a delicious contrast to the cool salad, making for a mouthwatering combination.
Baked Salmon Fillets: The richness of salmon pairs beautifully with the freshness of the potato salad, enhancing its vibrant flavors. A squeeze of lemon ties everything together perfectly!
Corn on the Cob: Sweet and buttery corn is a seasonal favorite that adds crunch and sweetness, elevating your meal’s texture and taste.
Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad provides a crisp texture that perfectly balances the creaminess of the potato salad. It’s an ideal companion for any picnic table!
Coleslaw: This dish adds a delightful crunch and tang, creating a lovely harmony with the rich dressing of the potato salad.
White Wine Spritzer: A refreshing drink option that enhances the overall dining experience while keeping things light and bubbly during those hot summer days.

Each of these pairings beautifully compliments the Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad, creating a feast that celebrates the flavors of summer!

Expert Tips for Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad

Perfect Potato Cooking: Ensure potatoes are tender but firm; overcooking can turn them mushy, compromising the salad’s texture.
Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving; this enhances the flavor integration of the Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad.
Gentle Mixing: When combining ingredients, fold gently to maintain the shape of the potatoes and prevent them from breaking apart.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste frequently while preparing; adjusting salt and pepper throughout ensures a balanced, flavorful dressing.
Customize to Taste: Experiment with variations, like adding smoked salmon or cucumbers, to personalize the salad without losing its charm.

How to Store and Freeze Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad

Fridge: Store your Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it chilled to maintain freshness.

Freezer: While freezing is not recommended for potato salads due to potential texture changes, if necessary, it can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: If you opt to freeze, gently mix the salad after thawing and consider adding a splash of vinegar to refresh the flavors before serving.

Make-Ahead: This salad can be prepared up to 1 day in advance. Prepare everything except the dressing, then mix in the dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best new potatoes?
Absolutely! Look for small new potatoes that are firm and smooth in appearance, with no dark spots or blemishes. Their skins should be intact and have a slightly shiny finish. If you can’t find new potatoes, Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes are great substitutes for a similar buttery texture.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it chilled to preserve the texture and flavor, ensuring every bite remains delightful!

Can I freeze Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad?
While freezing potato salad isn’t typically recommended due to texture changes, you can freeze it for up to 1 month if necessary. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, give it a gentle stir and consider adding a little splash of vinegar to refresh the flavors before serving.

What should I do if my potatoes are mushy?
If your potatoes turn out mushy, don’t fret! It happens to the best of us. The key is to reduce cooking time in the future—cook the potatoes until they’re fork-tender but still firm. If the salad ends up too mushy, you might consider mashing some of the lovelier pieces to create a creamy base while keeping some chunks intact for texture.

Can my pet enjoy this salad?
While the ingredients are generally safe, it’s best to avoid letting pets have the salad. The capers and onions can be harmful to cats and dogs. Always consider your pet’s dietary needs and consult your vet if unsure about any specific foods.

How can I customize this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very good question! If you’re looking to make your Scandinavian Dill Potato Salad dairy-free, you can substitute the sour cream with a plant-based yogurt. For mayonnaise, consider using aquafaba-based or vegan mayo alternatives. Additionally, if anyone has a mustard allergy, simply omit it or replace it with a splash of lemon juice for acidity. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish!