This creamy red potato salad with dill and pickles is made with mostly red potatoes, finely minced vegetables, shredded carrots, and a rich, tangy mayonnaise and mustard dressing. Fresh dill, warm spices, and a touch of vinegar make this easy homemade potato salad a flavourful side dish for barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings.
Place the red potatoes and white potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle boil and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, or until fork-tender.
Drain well and let the potatoes cool until just warm. Be careful not to overcook them.
Make the seasoned base
In a small saucepan, whisk together:
vinegar
sugar
cornstarch
water
turmeric
paprika
garlic powder
onion powder
celery seed
dried dill weed
black pepper
salt
Cook over medium heat, stirring, until slightly thickened, about 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
Finish the dressing
In a bowl, mix together:
mayonnaise
mustard
cooled seasoned vinegar mixture
Stir until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the salad
In a large bowl, add:
cooked potatoes
minced pickles
minced celery
minced onion
shredded carrot
fresh dill
Add the dressing and gently fold everything together until thick and well coated. Keep the potatoes chunky.
Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours before serving.
Garnish
Top with extra shredded carrot, fresh dill sprigs, and a light sprinkle of paprika before serving.
For the best creamy red potato salad, cook the red potatoes just until fork-tender, then cool them before adding the mayonnaise dressing. This keeps the potatoes chunky and helps the tangy dill-and-pickle dressing stay thick and creamy.
Notes
Use mostly red potatoes and leave the skins on for extra colour, texture, and a classic red potato salad appearance.
Cut the potatoes into similar-sized chunks so they cook evenly and stay firm in the creamy dressing.
Do not overcook the potatoes. They should be fork-tender but still hold their shape when folded into the salad.
Let the potatoes cool before adding the mayonnaise mixture so the creamy potato salad dressing does not become oily or thin.
Mince the celery, onion, and dill pickles very finely for flavour and crunch without large pieces.
The cornstarch helps create a thick, tangy dressing that clings well to the potatoes.
Add more mayonnaise after chilling if the potatoes absorb some of the dressing and the salad looks dry.
Chill this homemade red potato salad with dill for at least two hours before serving for the best flavour.
Fresh dill gives the salad a brighter flavour, but dried dill can be used when fresh is unavailable.
This easy potato salad can be prepared one day ahead, making it ideal for barbecues, picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings.