The First Bite That Hooked Me
I still remember the crunch of bacon, the creamy pesto clinging to warm potatoes. It was a picnic under oak trees, my friend’s mom passing me a bowl. One bite and I was sold. Ever wondered how you could turn potato salad into something unforgettable? This dish does it—rich, tangy, with a salty bacon punch. Try it once, and you’ll crave it every summer.My Kitchen Disaster Turned Win
First time I made this, I burned the bacon. Smoke filled the kitchen, but I salvaged it. The crispy bits added texture, and my family still raved. Cooking flops teach us to adapt—like life, recipes need room for surprises. Now I keep extra bacon handy. What’s your best kitchen save? Share below!Why This Combo Works Magic
– Creamy mayo and sour cream balance the pesto’s sharpness. – Sun-dried tomatoes add chewy sweetness against crispy bacon. Which flavor combo surprises you most? Is it the pesto with bacon or the tomatoes with basil? Vote in your head—then taste to confirm.A Dish With Roots
Potato salads started in Germany, but pesto hails from Italy. This mash-up is pure modern comfort food. *Did you know pesto originally had no mayo?* Our version is richer, perfect for potlucks. What’s your twist on a classic dish? Tell me in the comments!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Baby potatoes | 1 kg | |
| Bacon | 150g (10 rashers) | |
| Thick mayonnaise | 125g | |
| Sour cream | 125g | |
| Pesto | 60g | |
| Sun-dried tomatoes | 50g | chopped |
| Basil | To garnish |
Easy Creamy Pesto Bacon Potato Salad
Step 1 Fry bacon until crispy. Let it cool on paper towels. Chop into small bits. Save some for topping. (Hard-learned tip: Bake bacon at 400°F for even crispiness without splatter.)
Step 2 Boil potatoes until fork-tender. Don’t overcook—they’ll turn mushy. Drain well but keep warm. *Fun fact: Baby skins hold shape better than peeled potatoes.*
Step 3 Mix mayo, sour cream, and pesto in the pot. Add sun-dried tomatoes and half the bacon. Stir gently. Quiz: What’s your go-to potato salad mix-in? Share below!
Step 4 Transfer to a bowl. Top with reserved bacon and fresh basil. Serve warm or chilled.
Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Yield: 6 servings Category: Side, Picnic
3 Twists on Classic Potato Salad
Vegetarian Skip bacon. Add roasted chickpeas for crunch. Use vegan mayo and pesto.
Spicy Toss in diced jalapeños. Swap pesto for chipotle mayo.
Summer BBQ Grill potatoes first. Add charred corn and avocado. Which twist would you try? Vote in the comments!
Serving & Sipping Ideas
Pair with grilled chicken or crusty bread. Garnish with extra basil or Parmesan. Drink match: Iced lemon tea (non-alc) or crisp lager (beer). Which would you choose tonight?
See also Savory Southern Biscuit and Herb Dressing