Spice Up Your Idaho Gatherings with a Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad Recipe!

Photo byNaomi Madison

When it comes to bold, hearty dishes that bring both comfort and excitement to the table, Idaho has a knack for making potatoes shine. Whether it’s mashed, roasted, or baked, the potato is a beloved staple in Idaho’s cuisine. But what if you take it a step further? The Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad does just that, combining the creamy, cheesy indulgence of jalapeño poppers with the rustic, crispy satisfaction of roasted potatoes. This dish is a new twist on a classic Idaho ingredient, perfect for any gathering or potluck.

A Fusion of Flavors Idaho Loves

Imagine the tangy flavor of ranch dressing, the crunch of crispy bacon, the zing of diced jalapeños, and the earthy warmth of roasted red potatoes—all coming together in one perfect bite. The Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad isn't your traditional potato salad; it’s a dish packed with flavor that brings excitement to any meal. Idaho's love for potatoes is well-known, but this dish turns it into a full-blown celebration. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, it promises to be the star of the table.

Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad, Idaho Style

Ingredients:

For the Potatoes:

• 3 pounds red potatoes, washed and cut into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (1 packet) dry ranch seasoning mix
• 2 teaspoons pepper

For the Salad:

• ½ cup (120 g) ranch dressing
• ½ cup (116 g) mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons (60 g) apple cider vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• 8 pieces bacon, cooked and diced (reserve some for garnish)
• 2 medium jalapeño peppers, diced
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded

Instructions:

Preparing the Potatoes:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 425°F and prepare a sheet pan by lining it with parchment paper. Spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the red potato cubes with olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, and pepper until well coated.
3. Roast the Potatoes: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the sheet pan. Bake for 45-60 minutes, flipping them halfway through at around 30 minutes, until they are crispy and golden. Allow the potatoes to cool for at least 15 minutes.

Making the Salad:

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ranch dressing, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper. Stir until creamy.
2. Add the Ingredients: To the dressing, add the diced red onion, cooked bacon, jalapeños, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Combine with Potatoes: Gently fold the roasted potatoes into the salad, ensuring that each potato piece is coated with the dressing mixture.
4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the reserved bacon bits on top for a final touch. The salad can be served warm or refrigerated until ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad isn’t just any side dish—it’s a bold and flavorful reimagining of Idaho’s favorite crop. The crispy texture of roasted potatoes, combined with the tangy ranch dressing and the subtle heat of jalapeños, makes it a crowd-pleaser at barbecues, family dinners, and potlucks. The smoky bacon and sharp cheddar cheese only add to its irresistible appeal. Each bite is a delicious balance of flavors that keeps you coming back for more.

Whether you’re cooking for friends or family, this dish takes your love for Idaho potatoes to the next level. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual backyard gatherings to special holiday meals. If you're looking for a dish that brings excitement and warmth to your table, the Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad is the answer. Get ready to dig in and enjoy the unique blend of flavors that this Idaho-inspired dish has to offer!

Here are some great sources where you can find detailed recipes for Jalapeño Popper Roasted Potato Salad:

1. Allrecipes provides a version of Jalapeño Popper Potato Salad that incorporates roasted potatoes with ranch seasoning and peppers. It includes detailed steps on how to roast the potatoes and make the salad with a mix of bacon, jalapeños, and cheddar cheese​(Allrecipes).
2. Spicy Southern Kitchen offers a spicy take on this salad, emphasizing the use of pickled and fresh jalapeños for added flavor, along with a creamy mixture of mayonnaise and cream cheese​(Spicy Southern Kitchen).
3. I Am Homesteader showcases a similar recipe that highlights the roasting process for the potatoes and includes detailed instructions on folding in bacon and jalapeños for a satisfying, creamy result​(I Am Homesteader).
4. Chefjar describes another flavorful version that focuses on air-fried potatoes and a creamy dressing mix of sour cream, ranch seasoning, and mayonnaise, making the dish both crispy and rich​(Chef Jar).

Each of these sources offers slightly different takes on this delicious, spicy potato salad, making it perfect for any Idaho-inspired gathering!