Name: Jerk Potato Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 3 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and sliced into 3/4 inch cubes; 1 cup vegan mayo; 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish; 1 teaspoon celery seeds; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried dill; 1 tablespoon jerk sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 celery ribs, chopped; 2 green onions, chopped

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If you’re ready to add a vibrant twist to a classic side, this Jerk Potato Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. Infused with the smoky, spicy flavors of authentic jerk seasoning and brightened by crisp celery and fresh green onions, this salad transforms humble Yukon gold potatoes into a party on your plate. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving something that bursts with lively Caribbean flavor, this dish promises a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and bold spice that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four smooth, light brown potatoes with small, shallow spots. One potato is cut in half, revealing a clean, pale yellow inside. The potatoes are resting closely together on a white marbled surface. The texture of the potato skin is dry and slightly rough with some tiny dots. The color of the skin varies slightly from tan to a light brown, while the inside is smooth and even colored. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple ingredients is the first step to making this Jerk Potato Salad Recipe truly shine. Each component plays a crucial role—from the creamy vegan mayo to the punchy jerk sauce—that builds layers of flavor and texture, ensuring a dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious.

Yukon gold potatoes: These provide the perfect tender yet firm base with their buttery texture.
Vegan mayo: A creamy binding agent that carries the seasoning beautifully.
Sweet pickle relish: Adds a subtle hint of sweetness and crunch for excitement.
Celery seeds: Bring a hint of earthy, slightly bitter warmth to balance the flavors.
Paprika: Adds a mild smoky depth and a beautiful reddish hue.
Celery ribs: Crunchy freshness that cuts through the creaminess.
Green onions: Sprinkle in a sharp, herbaceous note for brightness.
Dried dill: A fragrant herb that introduces a light, fresh aroma.
Jerk sauce: The heart of the recipe with its signature spicy and aromatic kick.
Salt: Enhances every flavor and balances the heat and sweetness.

How to Make Jerk Potato Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes to Tender Perfection

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil, then carefully add your peeled and cubed Yukon gold potatoes. Cooking them for about 10 to 15 minutes ensures they become tender while holding their shape perfectly. Once ready, drain them thoroughly using a colander and set aside to cool slightly. This step is crucial since the texture of the potatoes forms the foundation for the whole salad experience.

Step 2: Prepare the Flavorful Mayo Dressing

While your potatoes are cooking, whisk together the vegan mayo, sweet pickle relish, celery seeds, and paprika in a small bowl. This creamy dressing is where the magic begins—each ingredient layering in tang, spice, and subtle smokiness. Set it aside to let these flavors mingle while your potatoes finish cooking.

Step 3: Combine Everything for a Flavor Explosion

Transfer the warm potatoes to a large bowl or pot and add finely chopped celery ribs, green onions, and dried dill. Pour in the mayo mixture along with a good teaspoon of jerk sauce and a pinch of salt. Gently but thoroughly toss everything together so every potato cube is coated in the zesty, creamy dressing and the jerk sauce brings its lively heat to every bite. This combination is what makes the Jerk Potato Salad Recipe truly special.

Step 4: Chill and Let the Flavors Develop

Cover the bowl tightly and chill your salad in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the potatoes to soak up the jerk sauce’s warmth, giving you a delicious, cohesive dish that’s refreshing and spicy all at once.

How to Serve Jerk Potato Salad Recipe

A white bowl filled with a creamy potato salad made of soft potato chunks mixed in a thick dressing with visible small green celery pieces. The top is sprinkled with some bright green chopped scallions and reddish paprika powder, adding spots of color on the creamy light yellow surface. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Jerk Potato Salad Recipe even further, add garnishes like fresh chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of finely sliced red chili for extra color and zing. A wedge of lime on the side also pairs beautifully, offering a bright citrus finish that complements the smoky jerk seasoning wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This potato salad pairs beautifully with grilled veggies, jerk chicken, or even simple roasted plantains. Its lively flavors are versatile enough to brighten any meal, making it an amazing side dish for picnics, potlucks, or casual dinners where you want something a little different but totally crave-worthy.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the bowl: serve your Jerk Potato Salad Recipe stuffed inside avocado halves for a playful appetizer, or layer it with crisp greens and cherry tomatoes in a mason jar for a vibrant picnic lunch. Presentation with fresh herbs sprinkled on top and colorful serveware really amps up the fun and flavor experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This potato salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors intensify as it sits, making leftovers potentially even better than the first serving. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute any settled dressing.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, we don’t recommend it for the Jerk Potato Salad Recipe because the potatoes’ texture can become grainy and the creamy dressing may separate upon thawing. For best results, enjoy fresh or refrigerated only.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it a bit warmer, let it sit out for 15-20 minutes before serving; avoid microwaving to preserve the creamy texture and fresh crunch of the celery and onions.

FAQs

Can I use red potatoes instead of Yukon gold?

Absolutely! Red potatoes will work, but Yukon golds are preferred for their creamy texture and buttery flavor that complements the jerk spices beautifully.

Is the jerk sauce in this recipe very spicy?

The jerk sauce adds a lively but balanced heat—if you’re sensitive to spice, start with less and add more to taste as you mix the salad.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Using vegan mayo ensures this recipe is completely plant-based without sacrificing any creaminess or tanginess.

How long should I chill the Jerk Potato Salad Recipe before serving?

A minimum of one hour is best for flavors to meld, but overnight chilling intensifies the delicious jerk flavor throughout the salad.

What can I serve with this potato salad for a full meal?

Try pairing it with grilled tofu or tempeh for a protein boost, or a crisp green salad to keep things fresh and balanced.

Final Thoughts

This Jerk Potato Salad Recipe is a delightful celebration of bold flavors and satisfying textures, perfect for those moments when you want something familiar with a fun twist. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines creamy, spicy, and fresh notes in every bite. Give it a try at your next meal—you might just find your new favorite potato salad!

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