German Potato Salad(Serves 25 People)

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 25 Cuisine: German

A savory German Potato Salad with crispy bacon, fresh parsley, and a tangy vinegar dressing, perfect for outdoor gatherings and hearty family meals.

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Ingredients

  • 5 lb. potatoes
  • 3/4 lb. bacon
  • 1/2 c. chopped parsley
  • 2/3 c. onions, chopped small
  • 1 tsp. celery seed
  • 1/2 c. sugar
  • 1 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 c. cider vinegar
  • 1/2 c. hot water

Instructions

  1. Cook potatoes in skins until soft.
  2. Peel and slice potatoes into a large container.
  3. Cut bacon into pieces and fry until crisp, saving drippings for later.
  4. Add chopped onions, parsley, celery seed, sugar, and salt to the potatoes.
  5. Mix cider vinegar and hot water, then pour over the potato mixture.
  6. Add the cooked bacon and drippings; toss to combine.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, choose waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold to retain their shape. You can substitute turkey bacon for a lighter version, or use olive oil instead of bacon drippings for a vegetarian option. To enhance the flavor, try adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing. Additionally, letting the salad sit for a few hours in the fridge allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty German Potato Salad alongside grilled bratwurst for a traditional pairing. It also complements roasted meats well, such as pork or chicken. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of Peasant Cabbage Soup or a fresh green salad. Enjoy it as a side dish at gatherings or barbecues, and it will surely be a hit.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the salad in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or vinegar to keep it moist. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed cold, making it a great option for picnics or potlucks.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of German Potato Salad(Serves 25 People) contains roughly 425 calories, with 7g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (31% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

425 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.9g 14% DV
Total Fat 18.5g 24% DV
Carbs 58g 21% DV
Fiber 5.5g 20% DV
Sugar 0.5g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 339.9mg 15% DV
Potassium 1450.2mg 31% DV
Cholesterol 2.5mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.1mcg
Vitamin C 22.8mg 25% DV
Calcium 26mg 2% DV
Iron 1.4mg 8% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this potato salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this German Potato Salad a day ahead. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier. Store it in the refrigerator and give it a good toss before serving. Just be mindful to add the bacon right before serving to maintain its crispness.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using olive oil instead of the drippings. Enhance the flavor with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a hint of smokiness. The salad will still be delicious and satisfying without the meat.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal for German Potato Salad, as they hold their shape and have a creamy texture when cooked. Avoid starchy varieties like Russets, as they tend to break apart and become mushy, altering the salad's texture.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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