Smoky Aioli Grilled Potato Salad
If you’re looking to take your classic potato salad to a whole new level of smoky, creamy goodness, this Smoky Aioli Grilled Potato Salad is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, slightly charred potatoes kissed by the grill’s smoky magic, then tossed in a luscious, garlicky aioli that’s bursting with flavor and just the right touch of spice. It’s fresh, smoky, creamy, and downright addictive. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer for your next BBQ, picnic, or anytime you want a salad that stands out from the crowd!
Why You’ll Love Smoky Aioli Grilled Potato Salad
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re serving it as a side at a summer cookout, bringing it to a potluck, or enjoying it as a hearty snack, this salad fits perfectly. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Great as a side dish or even a light main course.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple potatoes and pantry staples with big flavor payoff.
Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, with simple prep and grilling.
Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or extra veggies to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: The smoky aioli and grilled potatoes will wow guests every time.
Ingredients in Smoky Aioli Grilled Potato Salad
Here’s what makes this salad so special:
Potatoes: Firm yet tender, perfect for grilling.
Garlic: Minced, for that punchy aioli flavor.
Smoked Paprika: Adds a deep smoky warmth.
Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the aioli.
Lemon Juice: Brightens and balances the creaminess.
Olive Oil: For grilling and aioli richness.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley, chives, or dill for fresh flavor.
Salt and Pepper: To season perfectly.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high for perfect potato charring.
Prepare the Potatoes: Parboil potatoes until just tender, then drain and cool slightly.
Grill Potatoes: Toss potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grill until golden and slightly charred, about 5–7 minutes per side.
Make the Smoky Aioli: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine: Toss the grilled potatoes gently with the smoky aioli and fresh herbs, making sure every piece is coated in that luscious sauce.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature. Perfect for picnics or BBQs!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: Approximately 250
Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients used.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
How to Serve Smoky Aioli Grilled Potato Salad
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Grilled meats or plant-based burgers for a full meal
- Fresh green salads to add crispness and balance
- Pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast
- Crusty bread for mopping up every last bit of aioli
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes for the best texture and flavor
- Don’t skip the parboiling step it ensures tender insides and crispy grilled outsides
- Adjust the smoked paprika amount to dial up or down the smoky flavor
- Add a dash of cayenne or chipotle powder for extra heat
- Let the salad rest for a bit before serving to let flavors meld beautifully
FAQ’s
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes great chilled or at room temperature, so make ahead and refrigerate. - What if I don’t have a grill?
You can roast or pan-fry the potatoes for similar results. - Can I use other herbs besides parsley?
Absolutely! Dill, chives, or cilantro all work wonderfully. - Is this recipe vegan?
You can make it vegan by swapping mayonnaise with a vegan mayo alternative. - How do I store leftovers?
Keep covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, grilled peppers, onions, or asparagus make great additions. - How spicy is the aioli?
Mildly smoky with a gentle garlic kick; adjust seasonings as you like. - Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Yes, just adjust cooking time as needed. - Should I peel the potatoes?
Leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients, but peel if preferred. - What’s the best type of mayonnaise to use?
Use your favorite brand classic, light, or vegan mayo all work well.
Conclusion
Smoky Aioli Grilled Potato Salad is the ultimate upgrade to a beloved classic. Its combination of smoky, creamy, and fresh flavors makes it a star side dish for any occasion. Whip it up for your next gathering and watch it disappear fast it’s simply irresistible!
Print
Smoky Aioli Grilled Potato Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Smoky Aioli Grilled Potato Salad combines tender grilled potatoes with a creamy, smoky aioli dressing, creating a deliciously unique twist on a classic side dish—perfect for BBQs and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Toss halved potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Grill potatoes for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and charred in spots.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and chipotle chili powder to make the smoky aioli.
- Once potatoes are grilled, allow to cool slightly and then toss with the aioli dressing.
- Stir in chopped parsley and sliced scallions.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use fingerling or baby potatoes for best texture.
- Adjust chipotle chili powder for more or less heat.
- This salad can be served warm or chilled.
- Add crispy bacon bits or crumbled feta for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: grilled potato salad, smoky aioli, chipotle potato salad, BBQ side dish, creamy potato salad