Zesty Potato Salad – A Fresh, Creamy, Plant-Based Twist

Jenny Tanner
Aug 11
2 min read

If you think potato salad is just for summer picnics, think again! This Zesty Potato Salad is fresh, tangy, and satisfying enough to enjoy all year round. It’s made without mayo, but still has a creamy texture thanks to an unexpected ingredient—white beans—blended into a flavorful dressing. Packed with veggies, herbs, and a bit of zing, it’s a wholesome dish that works as a side, a light lunch, or a potluck show-stopper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy without the mayo – The blended white beans create a silky dressing with added fiber and protein.
Zesty & refreshing – Dill pickles, fresh dill, and cider vinegar give it brightness and flavor in every bite.
Make-ahead friendly – It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours and stays fresh for up to 5 days.
Naturally plant-based – 100% vegan, dairy-free, and full of nutrient-rich vegetables.

Ingredients

2 pounds red potatoes
1 (15 oz) can great northern beans (or other white bean), drained and rinsed
1 tsp. prepared mustard
1½ tsp. cider vinegar
1 tsp. salt
½ tsp. garlic powder
½ cup chopped dill pickle
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 Tablespoons chopped fresh dill
½ red onion, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the potatoes. Cut the potatoes in half and cook in boiling water just until tender—about 10–12 minutes. Drain, let them cool, then cut into smaller bite-size cubes.

2. Make the dressing. In a blender, combine the white beans, mustard, cider vinegar, salt, and garlic powder. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

3. Assemble the salad. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, chopped dill pickle, red bell pepper, fresh dill, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss until everything is coated.

4. Chill or serve. Enjoy immediately for a warm potato salad, or refrigerate for at least 1 hour for the flavors to meld. This salad will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Serving Ideas

Serve alongside veggie burgers, grilled vegetables, or sandwiches.
Add a handful of leafy greens for a potato salad “bowl.”
Sprinkle with extra fresh dill before serving for a flavor boost.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen as it chills, making it even better the next day.

💡 Recipe Tips:

For an extra punch of tanginess and creaminess, add a dash of pickle juice to the dressing. For a protein (and taste) boost, add small cubes of tofu sprinkled with black salt.