Yukon Potato Recipes: How to Make 3 Easy Dishes
Did you know that potatoes are the fourth largest food crop globally, feeding billions, yet statistics suggest the average home cook typically relies on only two primary preparation methods? Considering the incredible versatility of this humble tuber, isn’t it time we expanded our repertoire? Enter the star of today’s culinary exploration: the Yukon Gold potato. Renowned for its naturally buttery flavor, creamy texture, and beautiful golden hue, it’s a variety practically begging for experimentation. If you’re looking for reliable, crowd-pleasing Yukon Potato Recipes, you’ve landed in the perfect spot. Forget boring boiled or basic baked; we’re diving into 7 easy dishes that transform these golden gems into unforgettable meals, proving that simplicity and spectacular flavor can absolutely go hand-in-hand. Get ready to discover why these specific Yukon Potato Recipes belong in your regular rotation.

Essential Ingredients for Our Yukon Potato Recipes
To embark on these culinary adventures, you’ll need a base of high-quality ingredients. The star, of course, is the Yukon Gold potato itself – look for firm potatoes with smooth skin and no green spots or sprouts. Beyond that, here’s a general overview, with specific needs detailed in each recipe:
Core Ingredients (Used Across Multiple Recipes):
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: Choose medium-sized potatoes (roughly 5-7 ounces each) for most recipes, unless specified otherwise. Their thin skin means peeling is often optional, saving you prep time!
- High-Quality Cooking Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is great for flavor in roasting and salads. A neutral oil with a higher smoke point (like avocado, grapeseed, or canola oil) is better for crispier results in roasting, smashing, and pan-frying.
- Salt: Kosher salt or flaky sea salt for general seasoning and finishing. Fine sea salt dissolves well in mashed potatoes and salads.
- Black Pepper: The finest flavor comes from freshly ground black pepper.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley, rosemary, thyme, chives – these add vibrant flavor and color. Dried herbs can work in a pinch but adjust quantities (usually 1 tsp dried = 1 tbsp fresh).
- Garlic: Fresh cloves offer pungent, aromatic flavor. Garlic powder can be substituted where appropriate.
Potential Substitutions & Additions:
- Potatoes: While Yukon Golds are ideal for their texture and flavor, Russets can work for baking and mashing (though results will be fluffier, less creamy). Red potatoes hold their shape well and could sub in for salads or roasting, offering a waxier texture.
- Oils: Melted butter or ghee can add richness to roasting or mashing instead of, or combined with, oil.
- Acidity: A splash of vinegar (apple cider, white wine) or lemon juice can brighten potato salads or roasted potatoes.
- Spice: Paprika (sweet or smoked), onion powder, chili flakes, or cayenne pepper can add warmth and complexity.
(Specific ingredients for each of the 7 recipes will be listed within their respective sections below.)
Timing Your Culinary Triumph
Efficiency in the kitchen often comes down to timing. Here’s a general breakdown for these Yukon Potato Recipes. Remember, these are estimates and can vary based on your oven, stove, and the exact size of your potatoes.
- Average Preparation Time (across all 7 recipes): Approximately 15-20 minutes (includes washing, chopping, mixing). Some recipes, like simple baked potatoes, require minimal hands-on prep.
- Average Cooking Time (across all 7 recipes): Ranges from 20 minutes (pan-frying) to 60 minutes (baking or extensive roasting).
- Average Total Time: Expect most of these dishes to take between 35 minutes and 75 minutes from start to finish. Data from recipe analytics platforms often shows that potato side dishes taking under 60 minutes total time see significantly higher completion rates by home cooks. These 7 Yukon Potato Recipes are designed with that efficiency in mind.
Individual Recipe Time Estimates (Approximate):
- Classic Roasted: Prep 15 min, Cook 30-40 min, Total 45-55 min
- Creamy Mashed: Prep 15 min, Cook 20-25 min, Total 35-40 min
- Crispy Smashed: Prep 15 min, Cook (Boil + Roast) 45-55 min, Total 60-70 min
- Herb Wedges: Prep 15 min, Cook 25-35 min, Total 40-50 min
- Potato Salad: Prep 15 min, Cook 15-20 min, Cool 20 min, Total 50-55 min
- Pan-Fried: Prep 15 min, Cook 20-25 min, Total 35-40 min
- Baked Potatoes: Prep 5 min, Cook 50-60 min, Total 55-65 min
Mastering 7 Easy Yukon Potato Recipes
Let’s get cooking! Here are step-by-step instructions for each delicious dish. We’ve aimed for clarity and added tips to ensure your success.
Recipe 1: Classic Roasted Yukon Gold Potatoes
This is a foundational technique delivering crispy edges and fluffy interiors.
Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30-40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs medium Yukon Gold potatoes, scrubbed clean
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary or thyme, 2-3 smashed garlic cloves
Instructions:
- Step 1: Get ready and warm up: Set the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup (optional, but recommended). Cut the Yukon Gold potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes. Pro Tip: Uniformity is key for even cooking. Don’t make pieces too small, or they might burn.
- Step 2: Season Generously: Place the cubed potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle generously with your chosen oil, ensuring each piece gets lightly coated – don’t be shy! Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or garlic. Toss everything together thoroughly. You want every surface seasoned.
- Step 3: Arrange for Roasting: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Crucial Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan! Give them space. Soggy potatoes are the result of steaming rather than roasting due to overcrowding. Use two pans if necessary.
- Step 4: Roast to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for 30-40 minutes, flipping the potatoes halfway through (around the 15-20 minute mark). They are done when tender on the inside (easily pierced with a fork) and beautifully golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Step 5: Serve Hot: Remove from oven and taste for seasoning, adding more salt if needed. Serve immediately as a fantastic side dish.

Recipe 2: Creamy Garlic Mashed Yukon Potatoes
Yukon Golds are arguably the best potato for mashing, thanks to their natural creaminess.
Yields: 4-6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)
- ½ cup warm milk or half-and-half (low-fat or plant-based milk works too)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (or dairy-free butter)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: Chopped fresh chives or parsley, extra butter
Instructions:
- Step 1: Boil the Potatoes: Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Add roughly 1 inch of cold water on top. Put one teaspoon of salt in the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender when pierced with a fork. Tip: Starting potatoes in cold water helps them cook more evenly.
- Step 2: Prepare Cream Mixture: While potatoes are boiling, gently warm the milk/cream and butter in a small saucepan or in the microwave. Add the minced garlic to the warm mixture to let it infuse. Do not boil.
- Step 3: Drain and Dry: Once tender, drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander. Return the empty pot to the stove over low heat for about 30 seconds to evaporate any remaining moisture from the pot. Return the drained potatoes to the dry pot. This step is crucial for preventing watery mash.
- Step 4: Mash Magic: Turn off the heat. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher, ricer (for the smoothest texture), or even a sturdy fork. Avoid using a food processor or electric mixer, as this can overwork the starch and make the potatoes gummy – a common mistake affecting nearly 25% of home cooks attempting mashed potatoes for the first time, according to kitchen surveys.
- Step 5: Combine and Season: Gradually pour the warm milk/butter/garlic mixture into the mashed potatoes, mixing gently until just combined and creamy. Be careful not to overmix. To taste, add a sufficient amount of salt and pepper. Garnish with chives or parsley and an extra pat of butter if desired. Serve hot.
Recipe 3: Crispy Smashed Yukon Gold Potatoes
The best of both worlds: creamy inside, ultra-crispy outside.
Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45-55 minutes (includes boiling and roasting)
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs small Yukon Gold potatoes (about 1.5-2 inches in diameter), scrubbed
- 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)
- 3-4 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: Grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh rosemary, garlic powder
Instructions:
- Step 1: Boil Until Tender: Place the whole, scrubbed small Yukon Gold potatoes in a pot, cover with cold water by 1 inch, and add 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender but not falling apart.
- Step 2: Preheat and Prepare Pan: While potatoes boil, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour 2 tbsp of the olive oil (or melted butter) onto a large, sturdy baking sheet, spreading it evenly.
- Step 3: Drain and Smash: Drain the boiled potatoes well. Carefully place the tender potatoes onto the oiled baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Using the bottom of a sturdy glass or measuring cup, gently press down on each potato until it smashes to about ½ inch thickness. Aim for craggy edges – that’s where the crispiness happens!
- Step 4: Season and Roast: Drizzle the remaining 1-2 tbsp of oil or butter over the tops of the smashed potatoes. Season generously with salt, pepper, and any optional toppings like Parmesan, rosemary, or garlic powder.
- Step 5: Crisp Them Up: Roast in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until the edges are deeply golden brown and crispy. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Recipe 4: Simple Herb-Roasted Yukon Potato Wedges
A classic side, perfect for dipping.
Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25-35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs medium Yukon Gold potatoes, scrubbed clean
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp mixed dried herbs (like Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence) OR 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley mix)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Step 1: Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut each potato lengthwise in half, then cut each half into 2 or 3 wedges, depending on size. Aim for wedges about ¾ inch thick at the widest part.
- Step 2: Season the Wedges: In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, herbs (dried or fresh), garlic powder, optional paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure they are evenly coated.
- Step 3: Arrange and Roast: Spread the seasoned wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding.
- Step 4: Bake Until Golden: Roast for 25-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wedges are tender inside and golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
- Step 5: Serve: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce (ketchup, aioli, ranch).

Recipe 5: Quick Yukon Gold Potato Salad (Warm or Cold)
Yukon Golds hold their shape beautifully, making them ideal for potato salad.
Yields: 4-6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Cool time: 20 minutes (optional)
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, scrubbed and cut into ¾-inch cubes
- Salt for boiling water
- Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion or shallots
- ¼ cup chopped fresh dill or parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional additions: Chopped celery, hard-boiled eggs, crispy bacon bits
Instructions:
- Step 1: Cook the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a pot, cover with cold water by 1 inch, and add a generous pinch of salt. After bringing to a boil, simmer for ten to fifteen minutes, or until just tender when pierced with a fork. Avoid overcooking them as this will cause them to get mushy.
- Step 2: Drain Well: Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander. You can serve this salad warm, or let the potatoes cool for about 20 minutes for a classic cold salad.
- Step 3: Prepare the Dressing: While the potatoes are cooking or cooling, whisk together the mayonnaise (or yogurt), Dijon mustard, vinegar, chopped red onion, and fresh herbs in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 4: Combine Gently: Add the drained (and slightly cooled, if desired) potatoes to the bowl with the dressing.Fold everything together gently until the potatoes are coated all over.. Avoid vigorous stirring, which can break them up. Stir in any optional additions like celery or hard-boiled eggs now.
- Step 5: Chill or Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. You can serve the potato salad immediately (especially nice if served warm with the bacon bits!) or chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Recipe 6: Easy Pan-Fried Yukon Potatoes with Onions
Simple, rustic, and incredibly flavorful comfort food.
Yields: 3-4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, scrubbed and thinly sliced (about ⅛ – ¼ inch thick)
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil or butter (or a mix)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Step 1: Prepare Potatoes and Onion: Ensure potatoes are sliced uniformly thin. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels – moisture is the enemy of crispiness here! Slice the onion thinly.
- Step 2: Heat the Pan: Heat the oil or butter in a large skillet (cast iron works wonderfully) over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer.
- Step 3: Cook in Batches (If Necessary): Add the sliced potatoes to the hot skillet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed for optimal browning. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, flipping carefully, until golden brown and starting to crisp. Season with salt and pepper as they cook.
- Step 4: Add Onions: Once the potatoes are mostly cooked and browned, add the sliced onions to the skillet. Reduce heat slightly to medium. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for another 8-10 minutes, until the onions are soft, translucent, and slightly caramelized, and the potatoes are fully tender and crispy in spots.
- Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot immediately.
Recipe 7: Foolproof Baked Yukon Gold Potatoes
Simple perfection – fluffy inside, slightly crisp skin.
Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 50-60 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-large Yukon Gold potatoes (about 8 oz each), scrubbed clean
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Kosher salt or sea salt
Instructions:
- Step 1: Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Prick each potato several times with a fork. This lets steam out during baking, avoiding explosions, which are an uncommon but untidy kitchen accident!
- Step 2: Oil and Salt: Rub each potato lightly with olive oil or melted butter. This helps the skin crisp up. Sprinkle generously with salt.
- Step 3: Bake Directly on Rack: Place the potatoes directly on the middle oven rack. Placing them directly on the rack promotes even air circulation for better skin texture. Put a baking sheet on the rack below to catch any potential drips.
- Step 4: Bake Until Tender: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the skin is slightly crisp and the inside is completely tender when pierced deeply with a fork or skewer. Baking time varies significantly with potato size.
- Step 5: Serve with Toppings: Carefully remove the potatoes from the oven. Cut a slit lengthwise across the top. Fluff the inside gently with a fork. Serve hot with your favorite toppings: butter, sour cream, chives, cheese, bacon bits, chili – the possibilities are endless!

Nutritional Snapshot: Fueling Your Body
Yukon Gold potatoes are more than just delicious; they offer nutritional value too. Here’s an approximate nutritional overview per serving (based on a standard serving size, e.g., ~150g roasted potatoes or 1 medium baked potato). Note: Values are estimates and vary based on specific ingredients (oil, butter, dairy) and serving sizes.
- Calories: 120-250 kcal (lowest for simple baked/boiled, highest for pan-fried or rich mashed)
- Carbohydrates: 25-40g
- Fiber: 2-4g (Higher if skin is consumed)
- Protein: 3-5g
- Fat: 1-15g (Highly variable based on added fats like oil, butter, mayonnaise)
- Potassium: A good source, contributing significantly to daily needs (around 15-20% DV per serving). Research indicates adequate potassium intake is linked to healthy blood pressure levels.
- Vitamin C: Provides a decent amount, especially when freshly cooked.
- Vitamin B6: Another nutrient found in good amounts in potatoes.
Focusing on preparation methods like baking, roasting with minimal oil, or boiling helps keep the calorie and fat content lower compared to frying or loading with high-fat dairy.
Healthier Twists on Yukon Potato Recipes
Love these flavors but looking for lighter options? These simple swaps can boost nutrition without sacrificing taste:
- Reduce Oil/Butter: When roasting or pan-frying, try using an oil spray mister for lighter coverage, or reduce the amount of added fat by half. Air fryers are also excellent for achieving crispiness with significantly less oil.
- Boost Veggies: Add other vegetables to your roasting pan alongside the potatoes – think broccoli florets, bell peppers, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts tossed in the same seasonings.
- Leaner Mash: Swap some or all of the butter and cream in mashed potatoes for Greek yogurt, low-fat milk, or even vegetable broth for moisture. Roasting the garlic beforehand adds immense flavor, reducing the need for fat.
- Yogurt-Based Salad: Replace mayonnaise in the potato salad with plain Greek yogurt for a protein boost and significantly less fat. Keep the Dijon and vinegar for tang.
- Herb Power: Load up on fresh herbs! They add immense flavor without adding calories or fat.
- Keep the Skin On: Whenever appropriate (roasting, baking, smashing, wedges), leave the nutrient-rich skin on your Yukon Golds for extra fiber. Just scrub them well!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Your Yukon Potato Masterpieces
These versatile Yukon Potato Recipes complement a huge range of main courses. Think beyond just steak and potatoes!
- Roasted & Smashed Potatoes: Fantastic alongside roasted chicken, grilled fish (like salmon or cod), pork chops, sausages, or hearty lentil loafs. They also make a great base for a breakfast hash with eggs.
- Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate comfort food pairing for meatloaf, shepherd’s pie topping, fried chicken, Salisbury steak, or rich stews and braises where they can soak up the sauce.
- Potato Wedges: Perfect with burgers, sandwiches, wraps, or as a standalone appetizer with various dips. Kids universally love them!
- Potato Salad: A classic side for barbecues, picnics, grilled meats, fried chicken, and sandwiches. Equally good at holiday potlucks.
- Pan-Fried Potatoes: Excellent with breakfast dishes (eggs, bacon), pork chops, or a simple bratwurst.
- Baked Potatoes: A meal in themselves with the right toppings, or a simple side for steak, chili, or roasted vegetables. Offer a “baked potato bar” at gatherings for personalized fun.
Presentation Tip: Always garnish! A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, paprika, or flaky sea salt right before serving makes any of these dishes look instantly more appealing.
Avoiding Pitfalls: Common Mistakes with Yukon Potato Recipes
Even easy recipes can sometimes go awry. Here are common mistakes and how to sidestep them:
- Overcrowding the Pan (Roasting/Frying): Leads to steaming, not browning. Solution: Always cook in a single layer, use multiple pans if needed. Data suggests this is the #1 reason for soggy roasted vegetables.
- Not Drying Potatoes Enough (Frying/Roasting): Excess moisture prevents crisping. Solution: Pat potatoes thoroughly dry with paper towels after washing/slicing.
- Using the Wrong Potato for the Job: While Yukons are versatile, using a very starchy Russet for potato salad might result in mush. Solution: Stick with Yukon Golds or waxy potatoes (like red or fingerling) for salads and roasting where shape retention matters.
- Overworking Mashed Potatoes: Using a food processor or over-mixing develops too much starch, making them gummy. Solution: Mash gently by hand or use a ricer; mix in liquids until just combined.
- Under-Seasoning: Potatoes need salt! Especially when boiled, as much of the salt washes away. Solution: Salt the boiling water, and always taste and adjust seasoning at the end.
- Uneven Cutting: Leads to uneven cooking – some pieces burn while others are raw. Solution: Take a moment to cut potatoes into roughly uniform sizes for the chosen recipe.
Storing Savvy: Keeping Your Potatoes Fresh
Proper storage ensures your ingredients and leftovers stay delicious:
- Raw Yukon Gold Potatoes: Store unwashed potatoes in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place (like a pantry or cellar, ideally between 45-50°F or 7-10°C). Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as cold temperatures can convert starch to sugar, affecting taste and texture. Don’t store them near onions, as gases released can cause both to spoil faster. Use within 1-2 weeks for best quality.
- Cooked Potatoes (Leftovers): Let cooked potatoes cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
- Reheating:
- Roasted/Smashed/Wedges/Fried: Best reheated in an oven (350°F/175°C) or air fryer until warm and re-crisped. Microwaving will make them soft.
- Mashed Potatoes: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore moisture. Can also be microwaved.
- Potato Salad: Best served cold or at room temperature.
- Baked Potatoes: Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Ahead: You can wash and chop potatoes a few hours ahead. Keep them submerged in cold water to prevent browning until ready to cook, then drain and dry thoroughly.
Your Turn to Create Deliciousness!
We’ve explored 7 fantastic and easy Yukon Potato Recipes, showcasing the delicious versatility of these golden potatoes. From crispy roasted bites to creamy mash and savory salad, there’s a perfect potato dish here for any occasion. Now it’s time to get cooking!
We encourage you to try these recipes and discover your favorites. Leave a comment below sharing your experience, any creative twists you added, or leave a rating in the review section! We love hearing from you. Don’t forget to subscribe for more easy recipes and cooking tips delivered straight to your inbox!
Frequently Asked Questions About Yukon Potato Recipes
Q1: What makes Yukon Gold potatoes special for these recipes?
Yukon Golds have a naturally buttery flavor and a medium starch content. This makes them incredibly versatile – creamy enough for mashing, firm enough to hold their shape for roasting and salads, and they develop a lovely golden crust. Their thin skin is also edible, saving peeling time!
Q2: Can I substitute other potatoes in these Yukon Potato Recipes?
Yes, but results will vary. Russets are starchier, better for baking and fluffy mash, but may fall apart in salads. Red potatoes are waxier, holding shape well in salads and roasting, but won’t mash as smoothly. For these specific easy recipes, Yukon Golds often provide the best balance.
Q3: Why are my roasted potatoes sometimes soggy instead of crispy?
The most common culprits are overcrowding the pan (which causes steaming), not using enough oil, or not having the oven hot enough. Ensure potatoes are in a single layer with space, use adequate oil, preheat your oven fully, and pat potatoes dry before seasoning.
Q4: Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare mashed potatoes completely, let them cool, and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream, or in the microwave. Some sources suggest placing them in a slow cooker on low to keep warm for a party.
Q5: What’s the best oil for getting crispy roasted potatoes?
While olive oil adds flavor, oils with a higher smoke point like avocado oil, grapeseed oil, canola oil, or even vegetable shortening often yield crispier results because you can roast at a slightly higher temperature without the oil burning.
Q6: Is it necessary to peel Yukon Gold potatoes?
Generally, no! Yukon Gold potatoes have thin, delicate skin that is perfectly edible and adds nutritional value (fiber!). Just give them a good scrub before using. Peeling is usually only recommended for the smoothest mashed potatoes or if you strongly prefer no skin.
Q7: How do I prevent my potato salad from becoming mushy?
The key is to use a waxy or medium-starch potato like Yukon Gold and not overcook it. Boil the potatoes until just fork-tender, then drain immediately. Gentle folding, rather than vigorous stirring, when adding the dressing also helps maintain the potato cubes’ integrity.