Summer is the perfect time to let potatoes shine beyond their usual mashed or baked roles. Whether you’re firing up the grill, packing a picnic, or planning a backyard dinner party, potatoes are the ultimate versatile ingredient.
They’re hearty, affordable, and they soak up flavors like a dream. In fact, one of the best potato salads I ever had was at a lakeside BBQ with friends—it was warm, herby, and unforgettable.
1. Herb and Garlic Potato Skewers
Fire up your grill for these simple yet flavorful skewers. Baby potatoes are parboiled, tossed with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme, then grilled until crispy and golden. Skewering them makes flipping a breeze, and they pair beautifully with grilled meats or veggies. They’re also perfect for dipping in aioli or ranch. This easy crowd-pleaser adds a rustic charm to any summer meal and keeps cleanup to a minimum.
2. Lemon-Dill Potato Salad
Forget heavy mayo-based versions—this potato salad is light, zesty, and fresh. Baby red or yellow potatoes are tossed with olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and chopped dill. Add thinly sliced red onions or capers for extra zing. It’s a bright side dish that complements grilled fish, burgers, or even a simple veggie platter. Best of all, it holds up well at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics.
3. Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Yogurt Sauce
Boil small potatoes until fork-tender, then gently smash them and roast until crisp and golden. Serve with a tangy yogurt-based sauce made with garlic, lemon, and herbs like mint or parsley. The contrast between the crispy edges and creamy center is irresistible. It’s a great party appetizer or side that you can prep ahead and quickly bake when ready to serve.
4. Sweet Potato and Corn Salad with Lime Vinaigrette
Combine roasted or boiled potatoes with grilled corn, chopped scallions, cherry tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette. This colorful salad bursts with summer flavors and textures. The lime dressing adds a citrusy punch that makes each bite pop. It’s a great way to use leftover corn on the cob and pairs well with spicy BBQ chicken or fish tacos.
5. Mediterranean Sweetpotato Chicken Bowls
Layer roasted potatoes with cucumbers, olives, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled feta over a bed of arugula or spinach. Drizzle with olive oil and a splash of red wine vinegar. These vibrant bowls are satisfying, healthy, and easy to customize. Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra protein. It’s a quick lunch or dinner that feels like a mini vacation in Greece.
6. Roasted Potato Tacos
Toss cubed potatoes with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and olive oil, then roast until crispy. Serve in warm tortillas with cabbage slaw, avocado, and chipotle mayo. These vegetarian tacos are filling, spicy, and seriously addictive. You can prep the potatoes in advance and reheat them before assembling the tacos. They’re a fun twist on Taco Tuesday that everyone will love.
7. Warm Potato Salad with Bacon and Mustard
This warm salad features crispy bacon, sautéed shallots, and a tangy mustard vinaigrette. The potatoes soak up all the delicious flavors while still warm, making it rich and comforting but not heavy. It’s a perfect addition to summer cookouts or potlucks, and it travels well. Add fresh parsley or chives for a pop of green and extra flavor.
8. Potato and Green Bean Nicoise Salad
This French-inspired salad combines tender potatoes, crisp green beans, cherry tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and tuna. Drizzle with a Dijon vinaigrette and top with olives. It’s hearty yet refreshing and makes a balanced main dish on hot days. Serve it chilled or room temp—it’s equally delicious and looks gorgeous on a big platter.
9. Sweet Potato Wedges with Smoky Paprika Dip
Cut russet or Yukon gold potatoes into thick wedges, season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and sea salt, then roast or air-fry until crisp. Serve with a creamy dip made from sour cream and a hint of chipotle or smoked paprika. These wedges are great for snacking, side dishes, or casual gatherings.
10. Loaded Baked Potato Pizza
Use naan or flatbread as a base and top with thinly sliced potatoes, mozzarella, goat cheese, caramelized onions, and fresh rosemary. Bake until bubbly and golden, then finish with arugula or balsamic glaze. It’s an easy, elegant take on pizza that feels summery and light. You can grill the flatbreads for extra smoky flavor.
11. Potato and Zucchini Fritters
Grate potatoes and zucchini, mix with egg, flour, garlic, and herbs, then pan-fry into golden fritters. These are crispy, satisfying, and perfect for dipping into yogurt or tzatziki. Great for brunch, lunch, or appetizers. You can even make them ahead and reheat in the oven or air fryer.
12. Creamy Avocado Potato Salad
This mayo-free potato salad uses mashed avocado, lime juice, garlic, and a splash of olive oil for a creamy, healthy dressing. Add diced red onion, corn, and cilantro for extra crunch and color. It’s a refreshing, heart-healthy twist that’s perfect for summer BBQs or as a side for grilled tofu or chicken.
13. Potato Caprese Skewers
Skewer bite-sized boiled potatoes with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and a little olive oil. These bite-sized delights are perfect for summer parties or a light appetizer. They’re fun, easy to eat, and look beautiful on a serving tray.
14. Potato Hash with Baked Eggs
Sauté diced potatoes with bell peppers, onions, and your choice of sausage or bacon. Top with sunny-side-up eggs and fresh herbs. This hearty breakfast or brunch dish is perfect for lazy summer weekends. It’s simple, filling, and great for using up leftover vegetables or proteins.
15. Curried Potato Salad
Add a bold twist to potato salad by mixing in a curry-spiced yogurt or mayo dressing. Add peas, chopped celery, and scallions for color and crunch. It’s fragrant, slightly sweet, and totally unique. Serve it chilled with grilled chicken, lamb, or vegetarian dishes.
We hope these ideas inspire you to see potatoes in a new summer light. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or chilling your dishes, there’s no limit to what these humble spuds can do. Let’s make this summer extra tasty—one potato recipe at a time!
