This vibrant potato salad is perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or any celebration where you want to add a splash of color and flavor. The combination of sweet and spicy elements makes it a truly unique and memorable side dish. Get ready to wow your guests with this Red Hot and Blue Potato Salad!
What Makes This Red Hot and Blue Potato Salad Special?
This recipe isn't your average potato salad. We're taking the classic comfort food and adding a patriotic twist with both red and blue elements. The "red" comes from the roasted red peppers, adding a sweetness and vibrant color, while the "blue" is achieved with the addition of blueberries, which provide a delightful burst of tartness that balances perfectly with the other flavors. The creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Potatoes:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, roasted and diced (or 1 jar of roasted red peppers, drained)
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
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For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Boil the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until tender but not mushy. Drain well and let cool slightly.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the cooled potatoes, roasted red peppers, blueberries, red onion, and chives.
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Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and toss gently to coat evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break up the potatoes.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best flavor experience. Serve chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of potatoes? Yes, you can experiment with other potato varieties, such as red potatoes or fingerling potatoes. However, Yukon Gold potatoes are a good choice because they hold their shape well and have a slightly sweet flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! This salad tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have time to blend. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
What if I don't have fresh blueberries? Frozen blueberries will work in a pinch, just make sure they are completely thawed and drained before adding them to the salad. However, fresh blueberries offer a superior flavor and texture.
Can I add other ingredients? Yes, feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. Consider adding bacon bits, hard-boiled eggs, or crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.
Can I adjust the sweetness/tartness? Yes, if you prefer a sweeter salad, add a bit more sugar. If you prefer a more tart salad, add a little more apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust as needed.
This Red Hot and Blue Potato Salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Enjoy!
