Hawaiian Potato Salad Recipe

There's nothing quite like the creamy, tropical goodness of Hawaiian Potato Salad to brighten up any meal. Imagine tender potatoes, a tangy-sweet dressing, and bursts of crunchy veggies, all coming together in one dreamy, island-inspired dish.

this Recipe

I first discovered this gem at a beachside barbecue in Maui, where the sun was shining, ukulele music filled the air, and plates were piled high with vibrant, flavorful food. Ever since, it has been my go-to recipe for potlucks, cookouts, and even simple family dinners.

This recipe isn't just flavorful — it's quick, easy, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients you probably already have on hand. Let's dive in!

Why You'll Love This Hawaiian Potato Salad

Get ready to bring a taste of the islands to your table with minimal effort! This Hawaiian Potato Salad has so much to love.

First, it's incredibly easy to make. Most of the work is just boiling, chopping, and mixing, making it ideal for even the busiest days.

Second, it's a budget-friendly dish. Potatoes, mayonnaise, and a few basic vegetables form the backbone of this recipe, proving that you don't have to spend a lot to enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal.

Third, it's a fantastic make-ahead option. In fact, it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, letting all the flavors meld beautifully.

Lastly, it's super versatile. Serve it alongside grilled meats, pack it up for a picnic, or enjoy it as a standalone lunch. However you enjoy it, you won't be disappointed.

Now, let's talk about what you'll need!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Hawaiian Potato Salad lies in its simple, vibrant ingredients, each contributing to its irresistible taste and texture.

Russet potatoes are the star of the show. They have the perfect starchy texture that soaks up the flavorful dressing beautifully. Be sure to peel and cut them into bite-sized pieces before boiling.

Mayonnaise is what makes the salad rich and creamy. Traditional Hawaiian Potato Salad often uses Best Foods (known as Hellmann's in some regions), giving the dressing its signature tangy flavor.

Sweet pickles add that delightful pop of sweetness that sets Hawaiian Potato Salad apart from the classic versions. Dice them finely so you get a little bit in every bite.

Carrots and celery bring a refreshing crunch to balance out the creaminess. Shred or finely dice them so they integrate well with the tender potatoes.

Finally, you'll need a large mixing bowl and a pot for boiling the potatoes. Having a sharp knife and a good cutting board will also make prep work a breeze.

How To Make This Hawaiian Potato Salad

Creating this island-inspired potato salad is a total breeze! Let me walk you through it step-by-step.

Start by peeling and cutting your russet potatoes into uniform, bite-sized chunks. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the potatoes, and cook them just until tender — about 10-12 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.

While the potatoes are cooling, prepare the other ingredients. Finely dice the sweet pickles, shred or finely chop the carrots and celery, and set them aside. This is a great time to also prep your dressing.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise with a bit of pickle juice for extra tang, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the diced vegetables to evenly coat them with the dressing.

Gently fold the slightly warm potatoes into the dressing mixture. The warmth helps the potatoes absorb the flavors, but you don't want them so hot that they melt the mayo.

Once everything is combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and develop into that perfect, crave-worthy taste.

When you're ready to serve, give it a gentle stir, garnish with some extra diced pickles or chopped green onions if desired, and enjoy!

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Storage Options

Hawaiian Potato Salad stores beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead option.

For the best results, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep or easy snacking.

When storing, make sure the salad is completely cooled before sealing the container to prevent condensation and sogginess.

To rehydrate slightly dry salad, stir in a little extra mayonnaise just before serving. And always give it a quick taste test to adjust the seasoning if needed after chilling.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can customize it to suit your preferences!

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. You'll still get a creamy texture but with a little extra tang and a boost of protein.

For a fun tropical twist, try adding some diced pineapple! It brings a burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy potatoes.

Not a fan of sweet pickles? You can swap them out for dill pickles if you prefer a more savory flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to taste.

Want a little more color and flavor? Toss in some finely diced red bell pepper or even a handful of thawed frozen peas.

Don't be afraid to make it your own. Every version of Hawaiian Potato Salad has a little personal flair — that's part of what makes it so special!

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