Southwest Potato Salad

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Mexican

A vibrant Southwest-inspired potato salad with jalapenos, cilantro, and lime, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or summer gatherings craving bold, fresh flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 Tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 2 Tbsp chopped cilantro
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 red onion, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • salt
  • pepper

Instructions

  1. Combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lime juice, chopped tomato, chopped cilantro, minced jalapeno, chopped green onions, chopped red onion, cayenne pepper, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  2. Add cooked and sliced potatoes to the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
  3. Chill the potato salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider adding Greek yogurt as a substitute for some of the mayonnaise. Fresh herbs like parsley can replace cilantro if you prefer a milder flavor. If you like more heat, leave some seeds in the jalapeno. For a unique twist, you can add black beans or corn for additional texture and flavor, which are common in Mexican recipes.

Serving Suggestions

This Southwest Potato Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a side for a summer barbecue. Serve it alongside Mom'S Mexican Rice for a hearty meal. For a complete picnic spread, consider adding South Of The Border Slaw and some fresh watermelon for dessert. It's a refreshing addition to any gathering.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together over time, enhancing the taste. To refresh the salad before serving, stir in a little extra lime juice and adjust seasoning if needed. Avoid reheating, as potato salad is best served cold.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Southwest Potato Salad contains roughly 388 calories, with 14g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (277% of the Daily Value), iron (93% of the Daily Value), and potassium (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 473mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).

388 kcal 19% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13.9g 28% DV
Total Fat 13.9g 18% DV
Carbs 62.4g 23% DV
Fiber 11.5g 41% DV
Sugar 6g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 472.9mg 21% DV
Potassium 2695.6mg 57% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 464.7mcg 52% DV
Vitamin C 249.7mg 100% DV
Calcium 489.7mg 38% DV
Iron 16.7mg 93% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal
Contains 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?

Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just prepare it according to the recipe, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. The flavors develop beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious when served the next day.

What type of potatoes work best for this salad?

Waxy potatoes like red or yellow potatoes hold their shape well and are ideal for potato salad. They absorb the dressing without becoming mushy. Avoid starchy potatoes like russets, as they can break apart too easily and affect the texture of the salad.

Is there a vegan version of this potato salad?

Yes, you can easily make a vegan version by substituting the mayonnaise with a plant-based mayonnaise or a creamy avocado dressing. Ensure that the Dijon mustard is also vegan-friendly. This version maintains the delicious flavors while catering to vegan 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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