This Healthy Potato Salad is a fresh, lighter take on the classic. Made with pantry-friendly canned potatoes and tossed in a creamy, tangy Greek yogurt dressing, it’s an easy side dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Like all of my recipes, this potato salad is completely customizable—mix up the seasonings or swap the nuts to make it your own!

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Why you’ll love it

• Quick & easy: No need to boil or peel potatoes—canned potatoes save time without sacrificing flavor.
• Lightened-up: A combo of non-fat Greek yogurt and low-fat mayo keeps things creamy without being too heavy.
• Customizable crunch: From crisp celery to crunchy pistachios, you can mix and match for the perfect bite.

What is healthy potato salad?

This healthy potato salad is a lighter take on traditional potato salad—still creamy and comforting, but made with better-for-you ingredients. Instead of a heavy, mayo-based dressing, it’s tossed in a tangy mix of non-fat Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, and just a touch of low-fat mayo for balance. You still get all the flavor and texture you love, with simple swaps that make it more nourishing and feel-good. Bonus: toppings like green onions and pistachios add crunch, color and a little extra flair.

Is this healthy potato salad healthy?

As a registered dietitian, I love building recipes that are both satisfying and nutritious. This Healthy Potato Salad delivers just that with a perfect combo of nutrient-packed ingredients:

• Greek yogurt provides lean protein and probiotics to support gut health and keep you feeling full. Plus, it’s lower in saturated fat compared to traditional mayonnaise-based dressings
• Canned potatoes and celery provide fiber, potassium, and vitamin C—important nutrients that support hydration, digestion, and heart health. Research shows that when potatoes are cooked and then cooled, they form a resistant starch—a type of fiber that feeds good gut bacteria and supports blood sugar control.  
• Roasted pistachios offer healthy fats,antioxidants, and plant protein, which may help boost satiety and blood sugar regulation.

What ingredients do you need?

• Canned whole potatoes – Look for unsalted, whole canned potatoes. You’ll find these in the canned vegetable aisle. Drain and rinse before using.
• Celery – Fresh celery adds a crisp texture and a mild, peppery crunch. Choose firm, pale green stalks.
• Plain Greek yogurt – Use non-fat for a lighter option. Check the label to make sure it’s unsweetened and unflavored.
• Low-fat mayonnaise – Balances out the yogurt with a touch of richness.
• Lemon – You’ll need both the zest and juice. Choose lemons that feel heavy for their size for the juiciest fruit.
• Seasonings of your choice – You can use a mix of paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper—or go bold with mustard powder or dill.
• Green onions – Adds freshness and color. Look for bright green tops with no wilt.
• Roasted pistachios – These add a salty crunch. Use shelled pistachios, and roughly chop before topping.

How do you make healthy potato salad?

1. Prep the base
   Cut the canned potatoes into bite-sized chunks and place in a large bowl with the sliced celery.
2. Make the dressing
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, low-fat mayonnaise, lemon zest and juice, and seasonings of your choice.
3. Toss and chill
   Gently fold the dressing into the potatoes and celery until evenly coated. Chill for at least 30 minutes if you have the time—it helps the flavors blend beautifully. For even more resistant starch (which supports gut health and blood sugar), refrigerate for several hours or overnight. 
4. Top and serve
   Just before serving, sprinkle the salad with green onions and chopped pistachios for added crunch and freshness.

Customize it your way

Like all of my recipes, this Healthy Potato Salad is completely customizable. Choose what seasonings and garnishes you want to use.

• Seasonings of your choice: Use the suggested blend or add your own favorites like dill, onion powder, mustard powder, or even a pinch of cayenne for heat.
• Nut of your choice: Pistachios add great crunch and color, but feel free to swap in almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for different texture or flavor. 

Recipe tips and tricks

• Serving: Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor. This is the best healthy potato salad for BBQs, picnics, or any summer gatherings–perfect alongside grilled meats or plant-based proteins.
• Troubleshooting: If it looks a little dry, add in an extra spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of lemon juice. Be gentle when folding to avoid breaking up the potatoes.
• Scaling: Halve the recipe for a smaller crowd. Double it for a BBQ or potluck—just add garnishes right before serving for the best texture.

Meal prep and storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Stir before serving and add a fresh sprinkle of pistachios if prepping in advance to keep the texture crisp.

Need more help with recipes for your busy schedule?

In my coaching + cooking program, I help busy people with beginner cooking knowledge become confident in the kitchen so that they can enjoy nourishing foods they love and stress less about mealtime. Click here to learn more about this virtual program led by a dietitian.

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Try these other favorite summer sides:

• Southwest Potato Foil Packets
• Grilled Broccolini
• Greek Chopped Salad