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Creamy Ranch Potato Salad Recipe with Fresh Dill and Chives

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A cool, creamy ranch potato salad with fresh dill and chives that is easy to make, perfect for summer gatherings, and offers a refreshing herbaceous brightness balanced with rich creaminess.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes, washed and cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably Duke’s or Hellmann’s)
  • ½ cup sour cream (full-fat preferred)
  • ¼ cup buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning (homemade or store-bought blend with dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, salt, and pepper)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Place the peeled or unpeeled potato chunks into a large pot. Cover with cold water by about an inch and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 12-15 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender but still hold their shape.
  2. Drain the potatoes well and let them cool completely on a baking sheet to avoid sogginess.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, ranch seasoning, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust buttermilk to achieve a creamy but pourable dressing.
  4. Finely chop fresh dill and chives. If using, dice red onion finely.
  5. Gently fold the cooled potatoes into the dressing. Add the fresh dill, chives, and onion. Mix carefully to coat all the potatoes without breaking them up. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour, preferably 2-3 hours, to let flavors meld and the salad firm up.
  7. Before serving, gently stir the salad and sprinkle extra fresh dill or chopped chives on top for color and freshness.

Notes

Do not overboil potatoes to avoid mushy texture. Mix gently to keep potato chunks intact. Chill for best flavor and texture. Fresh herbs are essential for brightness. For a dairy-free version, substitute vegan mayo, plant-based sour cream, and almond milk for buttermilk.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato salad, creamy ranch, fresh dill, chives, summer salad, picnic recipe, easy potato salad, ranch dressing