Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad: A Flavorful Side Dish

Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad combines the zesty flavors of jalapeño poppers with the hearty satisfaction of roasted potatoes. This delicious dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a unique side for any meal. The salad starts with crispy roasted potatoes, seasoned with ranch mix and olive oil, providing a flavorful base. The dressing, made with ranch dressing, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar, adds tanginess and creaminess. Freshly diced red onion, crispy bacon, spicy jalapeños, and sharp cheddar cheese are mixed in for extra flavor and texture. Serve this salad warm or chilled, and garnish with extra bacon for a delightful presentation. Perfect for any gathering, this Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad is sure to be a hit with its bold flavors and creamy texture.

Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad combines the zesty flavors of jalapeño poppers with the hearty satisfaction of roasted potatoes. This delicious dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a unique side for any meal. With crispy roasted potatoes, tangy ranch dressing, spicy jalapeños, and the rich taste of sharp cheddar cheese, this salad is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds red potatoes, washed, cut into small cubes: These potatoes are the base of the salad, providing a hearty and satisfying texture. Cutting them into small cubes ensures they cook evenly and get crispy in the oven.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Helps to coat the potatoes, allowing them to crisp up nicely during roasting.
• 2 tablespoons (1 packet) dry ranch seasoning mix: Adds a burst of flavor to the potatoes, complementing the other ingredients in the salad.
• 2 teaspoons pepper: Enhances the overall flavor with a bit of heat.
• ½ cup (120 g) ranch dressing: Forms the creamy base of the salad dressing, adding tanginess and depth.
• ½ cup (116 g) mayonnaise: Provides additional creaminess and richness to the dressing.
• 3 tablespoons (60 g) apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy bite that balances the creaminess of the mayonnaise and ranch dressing.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice to the dressing.
• 1 small red onion, finely diced: Adds a sharp, fresh flavor and crunch to the salad.
• 8 pieces bacon, cooked, diced, reserving some for garnish: Adds a smoky, savory element that enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
• 2 medium jalapeno peppers, diced: Adds a spicy kick, making the salad exciting and flavorful.
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded: Adds a rich, cheesy element that ties all the flavors together.

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the potatoes don’t stick during roasting.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, toss the cubed red potatoes with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of dry ranch seasoning mix, and 2 teaspoons of pepper. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning and oil.

Step 3:

Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, flipping the potatoes after 30 minutes to ensure even cooking. The potatoes should be crispy and golden brown. Let them cool for at least 15 minutes before adding them to the salad.

Step 4:

While the potatoes are cooling, prepare the dressing. In a large bowl, combine ½ cup of ranch dressing, ½ cup of mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy.

Step 5:

Add the finely diced red onion, cooked and diced bacon (reserving some for garnish), diced jalapeno peppers, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the bowl with the dressing. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 6:

Gently fold in the cooled roasted potatoes, making sure each potato cube is coated with the creamy dressing. Be careful not to mash the potatoes; you want to maintain their shape and texture.

Step 7:

Transfer the potato salad to a serving dish and garnish with the reserved bacon pieces. You can serve this salad warm, right after mixing, or refrigerate it in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.

Step 8:

Enjoy your Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad as a flavorful side dish at your next gathering or barbecue.

Serving and Storage Tips

Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad can be served warm or chilled, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Serve it immediately after preparation for a warm, comforting side, or chill it in the refrigerator for at least an hour to let the flavors meld together for a refreshing, cool salad. This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, burgers, or as part of a picnic spread.

To store leftovers, place the potato salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious the next day. Before serving chilled leftovers, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the dressing and toppings.

Helpful Notes About the Recipe

This recipe is highly adaptable to suit your personal taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some variations and tips:

• Different Potatoes: While red potatoes work great, you can also use Yukon Gold or russet potatoes for a different texture and flavor.
• Extra Heat: If you love spicy food, add more jalapeños or include a dash of hot sauce in the dressing for an extra kick.
• Alternative Cheese: Swap out sharp cheddar for pepper jack or smoked gouda to add a unique twist to the salad.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or black beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Healthier Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, protein-packed dressing.

As chef Bobby Flay often emphasizes, "Bold flavors and fresh ingredients are key to any great dish." This Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad exemplifies that principle, combining the bold heat of jalapeños with the creamy richness of cheese and the freshness of roasted potatoes. Another tip from chef Ina Garten: "Don’t be afraid to adjust recipes to your taste." Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and make this salad your own.

Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or a casual get-together, Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and creamy textures that make this dish so special!