Sweet Potato Salad – A Fresh Twist on the Classic Side Dish

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Author: Amelia
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If you love a good potato salad but want to try something a little different, this Sweet Potato Salad is a must! It’s creamy, tangy, and just slightly sweet – a refreshing take on the traditional recipe that pairs perfectly with almost any main dish.

Sweet Potato Salad – A Fresh Twist on the Classic Side Dish 6
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Whether you’re planning a summer cookout, a cozy dinner at home, or a potluck with friends, this colorful salad is sure to stand out. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and a great way to showcase the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Salad

Once you try it, you’ll see why Sweet Potato Salad has become one of our favorite side dishes. It has all the creamy comfort of a traditional potato salad, but with a subtle sweetness and a little kick that makes it extra special.

It’s also lightened up with Greek yogurt and just a touch of mayo, making it creamy without being heavy. The dressing is balanced with honey, apple cider vinegar, and a hint of Sriracha, giving it that perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy.

This version is so satisfying that it can easily steal the show on your plate – and it’s just as good the next day!

What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Sweet Potato Salad. (Scroll down for the printable recipe card with exact measurements.)

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  • Sweet Potatoes: Choose white-fleshed sweet potatoes for a milder flavor, or orange ones for a richer color and slightly earthier taste. Both work beautifully.
  • Red Onion: Adds a mild bite and a pop of color.
  • Scallions: Their subtle peppery flavor complements the creamy dressing perfectly.
  • Greek Yogurt & Mayonnaise: Together they form a light, creamy base that coats the potatoes without being too heavy.
  • Honey: Adds a hint of natural sweetness that ties everything together.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Balances the sweetness with tangy acidity.
  • Sriracha: A touch of heat that enhances, rather than overpowers, the other flavors.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential for rounding out all the flavors.

How to Make Sweet Potato Salad

Making this Sweet Potato Salad is quick and simple! Here’s how to do it:

  1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then place them in a large pot with water and a little salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10 minutes, or until just tender. Drain and let them cool for about 20 minutes.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayo, honey, apple cider vinegar, Sriracha, and diced scallions.
  3. Combine Everything: Gently fold the cooled sweet potatoes into the dressing, making sure each piece is evenly coated.
  4. Season and Chill: Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving – the flavors get even better as they sit.

Variations You’ll Love

You can customize this Sweet Potato Salad to your taste! Try a few of these fun twists:

  • Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Instead of boiling, roast the cubes for extra flavor and a slightly caramelized texture.
  • Add Bell Peppers: Red bell peppers bring a nice crunch and bright color.
  • Toss in Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky note that pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing.
  • Mix in Radishes: For a pop of peppery crunch and vibrant color.
  • Herb It Up: Fresh cilantro, parsley, or chives make a fresh finishing touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This salad is a dream when it comes to planning ahead.

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  • Make Ahead: You can easily prepare it the day before. In fact, chilling it overnight helps the flavors blend beautifully.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Avoid Heat: Don’t leave it out at room temperature, especially in warm weather, since it contains a yogurt- and mayo-based dressing.
  • Freezing: Unfortunately, this salad doesn’t freeze well. The texture of the potatoes changes and the dressing separates after thawing.

What to Serve with Sweet Potato Salad

This creamy and colorful salad goes with just about everything! Try serving it alongside:

  • Grilled Chicken or Turkey Burgers
  • Barbecue Ribs or Pulled Pork
  • Beef Skewers or Kofta Meatballs
  • Grilled Vegetables or Marinated Steak

It’s also delicious on its own for a light lunch or as part of a picnic spread.

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Sweet Potato Salad – A Fresh Twist on the Classic Side Dish


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  • Author: Madilyn
  • Total Time: 40 min

Ingredients

2 ¾ pounds white-fleshed sweet potatoes (or orange, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes)

1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt

¼ cup light mayonnaise

1 tablespoon honey

½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)

2 stalks scallions, finely diced

Salt and black pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. Boil the Potatoes:
    Add cubed sweet potatoes to a large pot, cover with water, and sprinkle in the salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain well and allow to cool for about 20 minutes.

  2. Prepare the Dressing:
    In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Sriracha until smooth. Add in the diced scallions and stir.

  3. Combine and Mix:
    Once the sweet potatoes are cooled, gently fold them into the dressing until everything is evenly coated.

  4. Season and Chill:
    Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

  5. Serve Cold:
    Stir once more before serving and garnish with extra scallions or a sprinkle of smoked paprika if desired.

Notes

  • Sweet Potato Options: White-fleshed sweet potatoes have a milder flavor, while orange ones are sweeter and richer in color. Both work great.
  • Roasting Variation: For a slightly caramelized texture, roast the sweet potato cubes at 200°C (400°F) for about 25 minutes instead of boiling. Let cool before mixing.
  • Add-Ins: Crispy bacon, chopped red bell pepper, or fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley make excellent additions.
  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the salad the night before serving — it tastes even better once the flavors blend overnight.
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cuisine: American

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Hey, I'm Amelia!

I’m a passionate home cook sharing easy, flavorful recipes inspired by my roots and travels — bringing a splash of joy and global taste to every family meal.

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