Spicy Jalapeño Popper Potato Salad 🥔🌶️

This unexpected twist on classic potato salad combines the creamy, herby goodness of traditional recipes with the spicy kick of jalapeño poppers! Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or even a zesty side dish at dinner, this salad will surely impress your guests. The combination of smoky bacon, tangy cream cheese, and crunchy jalapeños offers an experience that’s both satisfying and vibrant. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature!

Ingredients

For the salad

• 2 pounds of baby potatoes, halved
• 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup of jalapeños, seeded and diced (adjust for spice level)
• 1/2 cup of diced red onion
• 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the dressing

• 1 cup of cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon of fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Potatoes:

   • Place the halved baby potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and let cool.

2. Prepare the Dressing:

   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth and creamy.

3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, red onion, and cheddar cheese.

4. Mix in the Dressing:

   • Fold the dressing into the potato mixture gently until everything is well coated. Add salt and pepper to taste.

5. Chill:

   • Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.

6. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve chilled or at room temperature.

🥗 If you like extra crunch, consider adding some crushed tortilla chips on top just before serving for a fun texture contrast!

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing for an extra kick! 🌶️🔥
• Creamy Avocado: Mix in some diced avocado for added creaminess and flavor. Just add it right before serving to prevent browning.
• Vegan: Substitute bacon with tempeh bacon, use vegan mayonnaise, and swap cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative to keep it plant-based.
• Herb Lovers: Experiment with fresh herbs like chives or dill for additional freshness.

Enjoy your spicy take on potato salad that’s sure to make every BBQ memorable! 🎉🥳