Warm Potato Salad

Warm Potato Salad with Mustard Dressing

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Join me on a culinary journey to discover the delicious recipe for warm potato salad with mustard dressing. This recipe is perfect for chilly days or to add a savory touch to family meals. The combination of boiled potatoes and delightful mustard dressing will turn any meal into a true feast for the taste buds.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Warm potato salad is a traditional recipe that has gained popularity in many culinary cultures. It is often served as a side dish but can also be a main course. The mustard dressing adds a pleasant contrast of flavors, enriching the simple taste of the potatoes. This recipe combines staple elements of home cooking, with each ingredient contributing its unique touch, transforming a simple dish into a feast.

Ingredients

- 1 kg potatoes
- 4 pickles
- 150 g smoked ham (or another type of deli meat)
- 1 onion
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the dressing:
- 100 g butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 500 ml milk
- 3-4 tablespoons mustard
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt

Step by step – How to prepare warm potato salad

Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes

1. Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly, leaving the skin on. Choose medium-sized potatoes that cook evenly.
2. Place the potatoes in a large pot of water and add salt. Boil them for 20-25 minutes or until they are tender enough to be pierced with a fork, but not so much that they fall apart.
3. Once cooked, drain the water and let them cool slightly. Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes of about 2 cm. It's important not to rush this step, as the potato cubes should remain intact.

Step 2: Preparing the Additional Ingredients

1. Cut the pickles into small cubes, similar to the potatoes. They will add a pleasant tanginess to the salad.
2. Dice the smoked ham and chop the onion finely. The ham can be replaced with other types of deli meats, depending on your preferences.
3. If desired, you can sauté the ham without oil to brown it and enhance its flavor.

Step 3: Preparing the Mustard Dressing

1. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Make sure it doesn’t burn, just becomes liquid and slightly frothy.
2. Add the flour, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.
3. Gradually add the milk, little by little, while constantly stirring. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture.
4. Once the sauce is smooth, add the mustard and the chopped herbs, such as dill and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The dressing should have a smooth consistency but not be too runny.

Step 4: Assembling the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the boiled potato cubes, pickles, sautéed ham, and chopped onion.
2. Add the mustard dressing, mixing gently to avoid breaking the potatoes. It’s important to maintain control over the texture, so stir with delicate movements.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serving

1. Serve the salad warm, either as a main course or as a side dish for pork roast or other meat dishes.
2. For an extra touch, you can add a few fresh parsley leaves on top before serving.
3. This salad is delicious alongside a fresh baguette or a green salad.

Practical Tips

- You can experiment with different types of mustard: sweet mustard, Dijon mustard, or even herb mustard for a unique flavor.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham and add roasted vegetables or tofu.
- Ensure that the mustard dressing is well blended. A creamy dressing will make your salad truly delicious.
- If you have them on hand, you can also add olives or bell peppers for an extra splash of color and flavor.

Nutritional Information

This warm potato salad is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy and satiety. Potatoes are rich in potassium, and the mustard dressing adds antioxidants from the herbs. One serving (approximately 250g) contains about 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can the salad be prepared in advance?
You can prepare the potatoes and dressing in advance, but it’s best to mix the ingredients just before serving to maintain the texture.

2. Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and a different texture, but make sure to cook them enough to achieve a soft consistency.

3. What other recipes can it be paired with?
This salad pairs perfectly with roasts, baked fish, or even an omelet. It can also be served with a refreshing drink, such as fresh juice or lemonade.

Personal Note

This warm potato salad with mustard dressing is one of my favorite family recipes. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of Sunday dinners when we all gathered around the table. I recommend you try it and personalize it to your taste. It might become a family favorite just like it has for mine!

Enjoy every step of the preparation and savor the authentic flavors of this simple yet characterful recipe!