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High Protein Potato Salad

High Protein Potato Salad - recipe card

This isn’t your average potato salad. Tender, creamy potatoes are tossed with a tangy Greek yogurt and Dijon dressing, crunchy celery, red onion, and fresh herbs, then studded with hard-boiled eggs and sharp cheddar for a serious protein punch. It’s a satisfying, flavorful side dish or light main that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a protein-packed lunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (about 3 medium) Yukon Gold potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 3/4-inch cubes
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for the cooking water
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely diced (about 2 stalks)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, diced into 1/4-inch cubes

Instructions

  1. Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch. Add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt to the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 10-12 minutes. The potatoes should be cooked through but still hold their shape — be careful not to overcook, or they will become mushy.
  2. While the potatoes cook, place the eggs in a small saucepan and cover with water by 1 inch. Bring to a boil over high heat, then remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 12 minutes. After 12 minutes, drain and transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool completely, about 5 minutes. Peel and chop the eggs into 1/2-inch pieces; set aside.
  3. Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool for about 10 minutes, until just warm but no longer steaming. Spreading them out on a baking sheet can speed up the cooling process and prevent them from steaming and becoming soggy.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth. The dressing should be creamy and well-combined with a tangy flavor.
  5. Add the cooled potatoes, chopped eggs, celery, red onion, chives, parsley, and cheddar cheese to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together with a rubber spatula until the potatoes are evenly coated with the dressing and the add-ins are distributed throughout.
  6. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. The flavors will meld as it chills, but it should taste well-seasoned at this point.
  7. Transfer the potato salad to a serving bowl, sprinkle with smoked paprika if desired, and serve immediately, at room temperature, or chilled. If you have time, refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop fully — this is the best way to enjoy it.
  8. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving, as the dressing may absorb slightly. This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, not warm.
  9. For a higher protein main, serve this potato salad alongside grilled chicken breast, a steak, or a scoop of cottage cheese. Each serving already provides 20 grams of protein to keep you full and satisfied.

Notes

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Do not freeze — the potatoes and yogurt will become watery and lose their texture. To serve after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, stir well, and adjust seasoning if needed. This salad is great for meal prep: make it a day ahead for the best flavor. If you want a lower-fat version, you can use non-fat Greek yogurt, but note the texture will be slightly less creamy.

Nutrition

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