There’s a unique charm in a potato salad that strays from the norm. Have you ever craved a lighter, zestier twist on the heavy mayo varieties? This Lemon Potato Salad No Mayo recipe will soon be your top choice. It’s a refreshing option, ideal for picnics, barbecues, or a flavorful side dish for any meal.
This potato salad’s charm comes from its simplicity and vibrant flavors. Imagine tender potatoes soaked in a tangy lemon dressing, enhanced with garlic and fragrant herbs. Each bite perfectly balances earthy potatoes with citrusy brightness. Ditching the mayo not only cuts calories but also lets the natural flavors shine brilliantly.
A key to this salad’s flavor is the marinating step. While warm, the potatoes drink up the lemon dressing, becoming packed with taste from the inside out. Each forkful bursts with flavor whether you enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
My first taste of mayonnaise-free potato salad happened at a neighborhood potluck a few summers prior. I looked at the dish with doubt—a potato salad without mayo seemed almost wrong. But my curiosity took over, and I am grateful for it. That initial bite was like a lightbulb moment—so refreshing, so delicious! The lemony potatoes countered the heavier options on the table perfectly, and I ended up going back for seconds (or maybe thirds).
Absolutely, this lemon potato salad is a healthier choice compared to its mayo-filled counterpart. By replacing mayo with a dressing made of olive oil and lemon juice, you lower the fat while boosting vitamin C. Plus, it’s naturally vegan, fitting many dietary needs.
The magic of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to try out different herbs—dill and parsley are favorites, but chives or basil can give a delightful twist. If you seek more protein, tossing in chickpeas or white beans works wonderfully. And for an extra crunch, add some diced cucumbers or bell peppers.
These simple ingredients create a surprisingly complex flavor combination. The starchy potatoes serve as a perfect base for the bright lemon juice and rich olive oil. Garlic provides a savory taste, while fresh herbs offer a burst of color and freshness.
When thinking about what not to put in potato salad, this recipe shows mayo is not essential. By focusing on clean, simple flavors, you can make a potato salad that’s just as delightful—and maybe even more—than the classic kind.
In conclusion, this Lemon Potato Salad No Mayo is more than a mere recipe—it reminds us that sometimes, less really is more. It demonstrates that with quality ingredients and a sprinkle of creativity, a classic dish can transform into something new and exciting. Whether you want a healthier choice or just wish to try something different, give this recipe a go. I suspect it may become your new favorite way to savor potato salad.
To make the Lemon Potato Salad No Mayo, you will need the following ingredients:
Bring 4 quarts water to a boil and add 2 tablespoons salt. Add the halved potatoes, bring back to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Once at a simmer, cook for 5 minutes or until just cooked. Don't let the potatoes overcook and become too soft; the residual heat will continue to cook them.
Meanwhile, in a jar with a lid, combine 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, ¼ cup lemon juice, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 ½ teaspoons sugar, ¾ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Cover and shake vigorously. Set aside.
Drain the potatoes and immediately transfer to a large bowl.
While the potatoes are hot, pour over half the prepared lemon dressing and gently stir with a rubber spatula. Set aside to marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Gently stir in 1 cup sliced green onions, ¼ cup finely chopped parsley leaves, and the remaining lemon dressing.
Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
Our Lemon Potato Salad No Mayo puts a bright spin on a beloved classic. This light and tangy salad is a great addition to any get-together, adding a pop of flavor to your meal. Want to share a photo of your salad? Tag us on social with @CookMeRecipes and #cookmerecipes!
This herby lemon potato salad is naturally gluten free, egg free, and vegan.
