Sweet Potato Salad

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Sweet potato salad is a delightful twist on the traditional potato salad we all grew up with. It brings a natural sweetness, a buttery texture, and vibrant color to your table. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, bringing a dish to a potluck, or meal-prepping for the week, this salad checks all the boxes: it’s hearty, wholesome, and absolutely flavorful.

This version keeps it fresh and balanced with a blend of creamy dressing, crunchy add-ins, and warming spices. Unlike your average side salad, this one can hold its own as a main dish or work perfectly alongside grilled meats or sandwiches. Once you try it, sweet potato salad might just become your new go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Salad

This salad is a wonderful mix of textures and flavors. Roasted sweet potatoes offer a caramelized richness, while the creamy, tangy dressing brightens things up. It’s both comforting and refreshing at the same time. Plus, it holds up well in the fridge, making it ideal for making ahead.

Sweet potato salad is naturally gluten-free and easily made vegetarian or even vegan if needed. It adapts well to different tastes and dietary needs, which is perfect when you’re feeding a crowd.

What Kind of Sweet Potatoes Should I Use?

Go for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, like Garnet or Jewel varieties. They roast beautifully and hold their shape in a salad without getting mushy. Avoid overly starchy varieties or white-fleshed sweet potatoes, which can become too dry or crumbly when baked. The orange ones deliver that perfect balance of creamy and firm.

Ingredients for the Sweet Potato Salad

To make this salad flavorful and satisfying, you’ll need a handful of easy-to-find ingredients that work in harmony.

Sweet Potatoes provide the creamy base with subtle sweetness and a roasted caramel flavor.

Red Onion adds a sharp bite that balances the richness of the potatoes.

Celery brings a fresh, crisp crunch that contrasts the soft texture.

Mayonnaise creates the creamy dressing base and helps all the flavors meld.

Greek Yogurt adds tang and lightness to the dressing while cutting down on heaviness.

Dijon Mustard gives the dressing a zesty depth and a little spice.

Apple Cider Vinegar brings bright acidity and ties the dressing together.

Smoked Paprika gives a subtle smokiness that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.

Salt & Pepper to taste and bring balance to the whole dish.

How To Make the Sweet Potato Salad

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Toss them with a little olive oil and a pinch of salt. Roast at 400°F for about 25 to 30 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized on the edges. Let them cool before mixing.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, diced red onion, and chopped celery. Pour the dressing over and gently toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors blend and the salad to chill perfectly.

How to Serve and Store Sweet Potato Salad

This salad makes a satisfying side for about 6 people, depending on portion size. It shines at barbecues, holiday spreads, or as a chilled lunch with greens. Serve it slightly chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.

To store, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays good for up to 3 days, and the flavors deepen as it sits. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again.

What to Serve With Sweet Potato Salad?

Grilled Chicken

Juicy, smoky grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the salad.

BBQ Ribs

Sticky, savory ribs and creamy sweet potato salad are a summer cookout dream team.

Roasted Veggie Skewers

For a vegetarian option, serve alongside skewers packed with zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.

Baked Salmon

The richness of salmon works well with the light sweetness and tang of the salad.

Turkey Sandwiches

Pack it up for lunch with your favorite turkey sandwich on sourdough or whole grain.

Pulled Pork

The smoky, tender pork and bright potato salad balance each other out perfectly.

Deviled Eggs

Double down on the picnic vibes with creamy, mustardy deviled eggs on the side.

Spicy Black Bean Burgers

Add a kick with a plant-based burger that plays off the salad’s cool creaminess.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If you enjoyed this Sweet Potato Salad, you might also love these other delicious creations:

• Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad
• Old Fashioned Pea Salad
• Zesty Taco Pasta Salad
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli
• Smoky Fried Green Tomatoes with Fresh Salsa

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap the yogurt or toss in some fresh herbs? Maybe added bacon? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting sides on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for flavorful living: Zoe Recipes on Pinterest

Conclusion

Sweet potato salad is one of those recipes that effortlessly bridges cozy comfort with vibrant freshness. It’s hearty, wholesome, and ready for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick lunch or a dinner side, its mix of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors will have everyone asking for seconds.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?