Looking to add a new and exciting dish to your culinary repertoire? Our German Dill Potato Salad is a refreshing and flavorful take on the traditional potato salad, featuring a delightful blend of fresh herbs and tangy dressing. Perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or as a hearty side dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Read on for a comprehensive guide on how to make this delicious dish from start to finish.

What is German Dill Potato Salad?
German Dill Potato Salad is a variation of the classic potato salad that incorporates fresh dill, making it a standout with its unique flavor profile. This salad combines tender potatoes with a medley of onions, shallots, and leeks, all brought together with a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing. Unlike the creamy American potato salad, the German version is lighter and emphasizes the fresh, vibrant taste of its ingredients.
Ingredients List for German Dill Potato Salad
For the Salad:
- 1 lb small yellow potatoes, quartered
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, toasted (optional)
- ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup leeks, chopped and rinsed well
- ½ white onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons shallots, minced
- 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 green onions, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground pepper
Substitutions and Variations
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are a few substitutions and variations you can make based on your preferences or what you have on hand:
- Potatoes: You can use small waxy varieties like fingerling, red skin potatoes, or new potatoes.
- Onions: Yellow onions can replace white onions if needed.
- Herbs: Fresh dill is essential, but if necessary, you can substitute dried parsley (1 teaspoon dried for 1 tablespoon fresh).
- Vinegar: White vinegar can replace apple cider vinegar in a pinch.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let's break down the cooking process into easy-to-follow steps:
Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes: Add 1 heaping teaspoon of salt to a large pot of water and add the quartered potatoes. Bring to a boil.
- Cook the Potatoes: Cook the potatoes until they are tender and can be pierced easily with a fork, but not too soft. This should take about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Toasting the Caraway Seeds
- Heat the Pan: Heat a sauté pan to medium.
- Toast the Seeds: Add the caraway seeds to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let the seeds cool.
Step 3: Sautéing the Onions, Shallots, and Leeks
- Prep the Ingredients: Chop the onions, shallots, and leeks.
- Sauté the Mixture: Add ½ tablespoon of olive oil to the hot pan, then add the onions, shallots, and leeks. Sauté, stirring often, for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent.
Step 4: Preparing the Dressing
- Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl or Pyrex with a pour spout, combine the dressing ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon fresh ground pepper.
- Whisk the Dressing: Whisk vigorously to ensure all the salt is well incorporated.
How to Cook German Dill Potato Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked potatoes, sautéed onion mixture, and toasted caraway seeds.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Top with the minced green onions, fresh dill, and parsley. Stir well to combine.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and mix so that all ingredients are well coated.
- Season to Taste: Taste the salad and season with more salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve Warm: This salad is best served warm to enhance the flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are tender but not mushy.
- Under-seasoning the Dressing: Make sure the dressing is well-seasoned and balanced.
- Using Dried Dill: Fresh dill is crucial for the authentic flavor of this salad.
- Not Toasting the Caraway Seeds: Toasting the seeds enhances their flavor.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Serve Warm: While this salad can be prepared in advance, the flavors are most prominent when served warm.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a final sprinkle of fresh dill and parsley before serving.
- Use a Vibrant Platter: Serve the salad on a bright, colorful platter to make it visually appealing.
How to Serve German Dill Potato Salad
This salad is versatile and can be served as a side dish with grilled meats, sausages, or fish. It's also a great addition to a buffet table at a picnic or potluck. Pair it with other German-inspired dishes for a themed meal.
Presentation Ideas for German Dill Potato Salad
- Individual Portions: Serve the salad in small bowls or cups for individual servings.
- Layered Salad: For a twist, try layering the salad in a glass bowl to show off the vibrant colors of the ingredients.
- Herb Garnish: Use whole sprigs of dill and parsley as garnish for an elegant touch.
German Dill Potato Salad Recipe Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients available for the best flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
- Prepare in Advance: While best served warm, you can prepare the salad in advance and reheat gently before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make it ahead of time and reheat gently before serving for the best flavor.
Q: Can I use dried dill instead of fresh? A: Fresh dill is highly recommended for this recipe as it provides the best flavor.
Q: What other types of vinegar can I use? A: White vinegar can be used as a substitute for apple cider vinegar.
Q: Can I use different types of potatoes? A: Yes, small waxy varieties like fingerling, red skin potatoes, or new potatoes work well.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
German Dill Potato Salad is a delightful and flavorful addition to any meal. Its fresh herbs and tangy dressing make it a standout dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether served warm or prepared in advance, this salad is versatile and easy to make. Follow our step-by-step guide and tips to create a perfect German Dill Potato Salad that will become a favorite at your table. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delicious dish!
PrintGerman Dill Potato Salad Recipe
This vibrant German Dill Potato Salad recipe is a delightful side dish featuring small yellow potatoes, fresh dill, leeks, and green onions. Tossed in a tangy apple cider vinaigrette, it's perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: German
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 lb small yellow potatoes, quartered
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, toasted (optional)
- ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup leeks, chopped and rinsed well
- ½ white onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons shallots, minced
- 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 green onions, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground pepper
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes: Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Vegetables: While the potatoes are cooking, chop the leeks, white onion, shallots, dill, parsley, and green onions.
- Toast Caraway Seeds: In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the caraway seeds until fragrant (if using).
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the cooked potatoes, leeks, white onion, shallots, dill, parsley, green onions, and toasted caraway seeds.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt, and fresh ground pepper.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- For a more intense flavor, prepare the salad a few hours in advance and refrigerate.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, add a spoonful of sour cream to the dressing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 190kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
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