Delicious No Mayo Potato Salad: The Ultimate Summer Side Dish (Without the Guilt!)
Hey, it’s Julian here, and let’s be real: sometimes you want a potato salad without the heaviness of… well, *you know*. That’s where this no mayo potato salad recipe comes in. It’s the ultimate hack for getting all the creamy, tangy deliciousness you crave, minus the guilt. Think bright, fresh flavors and a surprisingly light texture that’ll have everyone begging for seconds. This one is a total game-changer, perfect for picnics, BBQs, or just a ridiculously easy weeknight side. Are you ready to ditch the mayo and level up your potato salad game?
Why You’ll Love This No Mayo Potato Salad
Okay, listen up. This isn’t just *another* potato salad recipe without mayonnaise. This is *the* potato salad recipe. Here’s why it’s about to become your new go-to:
- Flavor Explosion: We’re talking tangy vinegar, zesty mustard, and fresh herbs that dance on your tongue. It’s a symphony of deliciousness, without the mayo bogging it down.
- Light and Refreshing: Say goodbye to that heavy, weighed-down feeling. This salad is light, bright, and perfect for warm weather.
- Insanely Easy: Seriously, this recipe is foolproof. Minimal chopping, simple steps, and maximum flavor. You’ll be a potato salad pro in no time. Detailed quantities and instructions in the recipe card below.
- Customizable: Want a hint of spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Craving more herbs? Go wild! This recipe is your blank canvas.
- Healthy-ish: Okay, it’s still potato salad, but swapping mayo for olive oil and vinegar is a major win for your waistline.
No Mayo Potato Salad Recipe
So, let’s get down to business. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this masterpiece:
Ingredients
- 1 kg baby potatoes, washed (not peeled) (2.2lb): Baby potatoes are the perfect size and have a naturally creamy texture.
- 3 rashers turkey bacon, chopped very finely: Adds a smoky, savory depth that complements the other flavors beautifully.
- ⅓ cup light flavoured extra virgin olive oil: The base of our tangy dressing. Choose a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons white grape juice vinegar: Adds that essential tang and balances the richness of the olive oil.
- 3 teaspoons wholegrain mustard: For a little kick and texture. Dijon mustard also works well.
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Essential for seasoning and adding a subtle warmth.
- 3 spring onions, thinly sliced: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- ⅓ cup mixed chopped fresh herbs (I use fresh parsley and dill): Fresh herbs are the secret weapon to this salad. Don’t skimp on them!

How to Make No Mayo Potato Salad: Step-by-Step
Alright, time to get cooking! Follow these insanely easy steps, and you’ll be enjoying your delicious no mayo potato salad in no time.
- COOK THE POTATOES: Wash the potatoes then place them into a large saucepan. Cover with cool water.
- Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then add a couple of pinches of salt. Let it boil for 7 minutes then check to see if the potatoes are fork tender (a fork should be able to penetrate without too much force but not break the potato apart). If they aren’t fork tender yet, keep cooking and checking until they are.
- Drain the potatoes, then leave them to cool before cutting into slices or chunks.
- If you want to peel the potatoes, it’s easy to do by hand after they’ve been cooked and cooled.
- COOK THE TURKEY BACON: While the potatoes are cooking or cooling, you can cook the turkey bacon. Cook in a frypan over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy all over.
- MAKE THE DRESSING: In an old jam jar or mason jar, combine the olive oil, vinegar, whole grain mustard and pepper. Screw the lid on tight and give it a good shake. Set aside until required.
- ASSEMBLE: In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, cooked turkey bacon, sliced spring onions and herbs.
- Give the dressing another good shake shake and pour all over the top. Gently toss to combine.
- Let the salad sit at least 20 minutes before serving or up to 2 days. It can be served warm or cold.
- Please take a moment to leave a comment & rating. It’s appreciated and so helpful.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Potato Salad
Want to take your potato salad game to the next level? Here are a few insider secrets:
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Mushy potatoes are a no-go. Aim for fork-tender, but still firm.
- Dress While Warm: Dressing the potatoes while they’re still slightly warm helps them absorb the flavors better.
- Taste and Adjust: Don’t be afraid to tweak the dressing to your liking. Add more vinegar for tang, mustard for kick, or herbs for freshness.
- Let it Rest: Letting the salad sit for at least 20 minutes allows the flavors to meld together and deepen.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs just don’t compare to the vibrant flavor of fresh herbs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with this foolproof recipe, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Potatoes: As mentioned before, mushy potatoes are the enemy.
- Using Too Much Dressing: Start with less dressing and add more as needed. You want the salad to be coated, not swimming.
- Not Seasoning Properly: Salt and pepper are your friends! Don’t be afraid to season generously.
- Skipping the Resting Time: Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to potato salad. Let those flavors mingle!
No Mayo Potato Salad Variations
Want to get creative? Here are a few variations to spice things up:
- Greek Potato Salad: Add Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a Mediterranean twist. Check out this greek-potato-salad for inspiration.
- Spicy Potato Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a fiery kick.
- Herby Potato Salad: Experiment with different herbs like tarragon, chives, or basil for a unique flavor profile.
- Pickled Potato Salad: Add chopped pickles or pickle relish for a tangy, briny flavor.
- Mustard Potato Salad: Increase the amount of wholegrain mustard or use a different type of mustard, like Dijon or spicy brown mustard. For a classic version, try this classic-mustard-potato-salad-recipe.
How to Store Leftover Potato Salad
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store your no mayo potato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The potatoes will absorb some of the dressing as it sits, so you may need to add a little extra olive oil or vinegar before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make this potato salad ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, it’s even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld.
- Can I use different types of potatoes? Yes, but baby potatoes are the best for their creamy texture. Yukon Gold or red potatoes are also good choices.
- Can I add other vegetables? Sure! Celery, bell peppers, or cucumbers would all be delicious additions.
- Can I freeze potato salad? I don’t recommend freezing potato salad, as the texture can change and become mushy.
- Where can I find more salad without mayonnaise recipes? You’re in the right place! Keep an eye on this site for more delicious and healthy recipes straight to your inbox. You can also search for “potato-salad-without-mayonnaise” for more ideas.
Serving Suggestions
This no mayo potato salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes:
- BBQ Classics: Burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, and ribs.
- Sandwiches and Wraps: Add a scoop to your favorite sandwich or wrap for a flavorful and satisfying lunch.
- Grilled Fish or Seafood: The bright, tangy flavors of the salad complement grilled fish or shrimp perfectly.
- Salads: Serve it as a side dish with other salads like coleslaw or green salad.
- Picnics: The perfect portable side dish for a summer picnic.
So there you have it! The ultimate no mayo potato salad recipe that’s guaranteed to impress. Ditch the heavy mayo and embrace the light, bright flavors of this game-changing side dish. Trust me, your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you. Now go forth and conquer the potato salad world!

No Mayo Potato Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Wash potatoes, place in a saucepan, and cover with cool water.
- Boil potatoes with salt for 7 minutes, then check for fork tenderness. Continue cooking until tender.
- Drain and cool the potatoes before slicing or chunking.
- Peel potatoes by hand after cooking and cooling, if desired.
- Cook turkey bacon in a frypan over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Combine olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and pepper in a jar. Shake well and set aside.
- Combine potatoes, cooked turkey bacon, spring onions, and herbs in a large bowl.
- Shake the dressing and pour over the salad. Gently toss to combine.
- Let the salad sit for at least 20 minutes before serving, or up to 2 days. Serve warm or cold.
- Please take a moment to leave a comment & rating. It's appreciated and so helpful.
Notes
