Pineapple Pesto Potato Salad

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

A vibrant and refreshing potato salad featuring sweet pineapple, aromatic basil, and creamy mayonnaise, perfect for summer gatherings and those seeking a tropical twist.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. potatoes
  • 20 oz. can pineapple chunks
  • 2 Tbsp. syrup from pineapple
  • 1/3 c. white vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp. oil
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1 clove minced garlic
  • 1 to 2 Tbsp. dried basil
  • 1/2 c. chopped celery
  • 2 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese
  • 2 Tbsp. parsley
  • 1/2 c. mayonnaise

Instructions

  1. Cook potatoes with skins on until tender, then dice and let cool.
  2. Combine pineapple syrup, white vinegar, oil, salt, minced garlic, and dried basil to make the dressing.
  3. Pour the dressing over the cooled potatoes and mix lightly.
  4. Add chopped celery, pineapple chunks, Parmesan cheese, and parsley to the potato mixture.
  5. Toss gently to combine all ingredients and chill before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider adding more mayonnaise or a bit of Greek yogurt as a substitute. If fresh basil is available, use it instead of dried for a vibrant flavor. You can also swap the pineapple for mango or peaches for a different twist. Ensure potatoes are not overcooked to maintain a firm texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Pineapple Pesto Potato Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a light summer sandwich. Serve it alongside a refreshing green salad or as part of a picnic spread. For a complete meal, consider serving it with the Summer Garden Casserole for a delightful summer feast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave, adding a splash of vinegar or a bit of oil to revive the flavors. This dish is also delicious served cold, so enjoy it straight from the fridge.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pineapple Pesto Potato Salad contains roughly 1783 calories, with 19g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 141g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (84% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), and iron (74% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1421mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).

1783 kcal 89% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 19.5g 39% DV
Total Fat 141.1g 100% DV
Carbs 116.2g 42% DV
Fiber 15.9g 57% DV
Sugar 0.7g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1420.7mg 62% DV
Potassium 3942.7mg 84% DV
Cholesterol 1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3.9mcg
Vitamin C 69.1mg 77% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 112.6mg 9% DV
Iron 13.3mg 74% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg

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 ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, but it's best to add the celery right before serving to maintain its crunch.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes are ideal as they hold their shape well after cooking. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes, which blend nicely with the dressing.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute. This way, the dish remains flavorful and fitting for vegetarian recipes.

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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