Introduction
Lemony Chive Potato Salad with Parmesan Recipe is the kind of side dish that transforms any meal into something memorable. Imagine tender baby potatoes tossed in a creamy lemon dressing, brightened with fresh chives, and sprinkled with salty Parmesan — it’s fresh, light, and beautifully balanced. This isn’t your ordinary potato salad; it’s a vibrant blend of zesty flavor and creamy texture that complements grilled meats, seafood, or even a simple picnic spread.
This Creamy Lemon Chive Potato Salad with Parmesan Recipe captures the essence of summer freshness while offering gourmet flavor in minutes. Ready to impress your guests or brighten up weeknight dinners? Let’s bring this delicious side to life.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Fresh & Bright: Lemon juice and zest add irresistible tang and lightness.
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Savory Depth: Grated Parmesan gives the salad a rich, salty umami kick.
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Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients, done in under 30 minutes.
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Perfect Texture: Baby potatoes stay creamy on the inside and slightly firm on the outside.
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Versatile Pairing: Great with steak, chicken, or grilled fish.
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Balanced Flavors: A mix of creamy, tangy, and herby notes in every bite.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: Flavors intensify after chilling — ideal for picnics or BBQs.
Ingredients
Potatoes
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2 lbs baby potatoes, halved or quartered – their waxy texture holds up perfectly in salads.
🔄 Substitute: Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes work well too.
Dressing
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¼ cup mayonnaise – adds smooth creaminess.
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2 tbsp sour cream – lightens the texture and balances tang.
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2 tbsp fresh lemon juice – for that refreshing citrus punch.
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1 tsp lemon zest – boosts aroma and brightness.
Add-ins & Seasoning
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¼ cup fresh chives, chopped – gives mild onion flavor and color contrast.
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – brings richness and depth.
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Salt & pepper to taste – adjust for perfect balance.
How to Make It
1. Boil the Potatoes
Place halved baby potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook for 12–15 minutes, until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain and cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and zest until smooth. This creates a tangy, velvety base that coats each potato evenly.
3. Toss with Dressing
Add warm potatoes to the dressing and gently toss to coat. The warmth helps the potatoes absorb more flavor.
4. Add the Final Touches
Stir in chopped chives and grated Parmesan, distributing evenly for a balanced bite every time.
5. Season & Chill
Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend beautifully before serving.

Pro Tips & Expert Answers (PAA Section)
How do you keep potato salad from becoming watery?
Use waxy potatoes (like baby or Yukon Gold). Drain them completely after boiling and allow them to cool slightly before mixing in the dressing — this prevents excess moisture.
Can you make Lemony Chive Potato Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes better the next day. Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days to allow flavors to deepen.
How to make this potato salad lighter?
Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and light mayo. It’ll be just as creamy with added protein and fewer calories.
Best Ways to Serve
Serve this Parmesan Potato Salad with Lemon and Chives Recipe chilled or at room temperature. It pairs perfectly with:
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Grilled salmon or shrimp
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BBQ chicken or ribs
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Herb-roasted steak or burgers
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Vegetarian sandwiches or wraps
Nutrition (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 210 | — |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Carbohydrates | 24g | 8% |
| Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Fiber | 2g | 7% |
| Sodium | 280mg | 12% |
| Vitamin C | 18mg | 20% |
| Calcium | 90mg | 9% |
Storage & Leftovers
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Not recommended — potatoes lose texture when thawed.
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Refreshing Leftovers: Add a splash of lemon juice or olive oil before serving again.
FAQs
Can I add other herbs to this salad?
Yes! Dill, parsley, or tarragon add different aromatic layers that pair wonderfully with lemon.
Can I make this without mayonnaise?
You can use olive oil and Greek yogurt instead for a lighter, fresher twist.
How long should I chill potato salad before serving?
At least 30–60 minutes for the flavors to meld. Overnight chilling gives even better results.
Recipe Variations
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Lemon-Parmesan Potato Salad with Fresh Chives Recipe: Add roasted garlic for depth.
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Zesty Lemon Potato Salad with Chives and Parmesan Recipe: Add Dijon mustard for a sharper kick.
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Lemon Herb Potato Salad with Parmesan Recipe: Include parsley, dill, or thyme for extra fragrance.
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Summer Lemon Chive Potato Salad Recipe: Add crisp celery or sliced radishes for crunch.
Conclusion
The Lemony Chive Potato Salad with Parmesan Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. With its zesty lemon brightness, creamy texture, and savory Parmesan notes, this dish is perfect for family dinners, summer cookouts, or anytime you crave something comforting yet refreshing.