Las Navidades in Puerto Rico are more than just a season, they are one of the longest holidays in the world, lasting approximately 45 days of celebration. They are filled with family, music, laughter, and, of course, mucha comida. There is never a lack of food during these celebrations. If you’re looking to bring a taste of Puerto Rican culture and nostalgia to your holiday table, there’s one dish que no puede faltar: Ensalada de Papa, or Puerto Rican Potato Salad.

Why Ensalada de Papa Belongs on Your Holiday Table

Puerto Rican Ensalada de Papa is not your average potato salad. It’s creamy, colorful, and loaded with layers of flavor and tradition. For many Boricuas, this dish is a must-have at holiday gatherings, whether it’s Nochebuena, Christmas Day, or any of the many fiestas that make up Las Navidades. It’s the perfect side dish to serve alongside pernil (roast pork), arroz con gandules, and pasteles.

What makes this potato salad stand out? It’s the combination of simple, wholesome ingredients and a few secret touches that make it uniquely Puerto Rican. Think fluffy potatoes, sweet carrots, briny olives, and a creamy dressing with just the right sazón. Each bite is a celebration of culture and family.

The Heart of the Holidays: Food, Family, and Flavor

In Puerto Rican culture, food is about more than just eating, it’s about connecting. Sharing Ensalada de Papa is a way to honor our roots, pass down traditions, and bring everyone together at the table. Whether you’re hosting a big family reunion or a cozy dinner with friends, this dish is a symbol of abundance and cariño (affection).

As someone passionate about healthy eating, I also love that Ensalada de Papa can be made with wholesome, real ingredients, no need for artificial flavors or additives. You get all the sabor (flavor) with none of the guilt, so you can enjoy the holidays without compromising your wellness goals.

Tips for a Healthier, Flavorful Ensalada de Papa

Want to keep your Ensalada de Papa both delicious and nutritious? Here are some tips:

  • Use Yukon gold or red potatoes for a creamy texture and extra nutrients.
  • Swap regular mayo for avocado oil mayo or Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier twist.
  • Add extra veggies like carrots and peas for color, fiber, and vitamins.
  • Season with Healthy Rican Adobo for that authentic Puerto Rican flavor without the artificial stuff.
  • Make it ahead—the flavors get even better after a night in the fridge!

Creating Memories: Storytelling at the Table

Every holiday, I remember my abuela’s kitchen filled with the aroma of potatoes boiling, salsa music playing, and cousins running around. The Ensalada de Papa was always the first dish to disappear! It’s amazing how a simple recipe can hold so many memories and bring so much joy.

If you’re making this for the first time, invite your loved ones to help peel, chop, and mix. Cooking together is part of the magic, and the stories you share will become part of your family’s tradition.

Perfect Pairings for Your Ensalada de Papa

Ensalada de Papa is a superstar side dish, but it shines even brighter when paired with other Puerto Rican holiday favorites:

  • Pernil (roast pork): The tender, juicy meat is the perfect match for creamy potato salad.
  • Arroz con Gandules: The ultimate holiday rice, loaded with pigeon peas and flavor.
  • Pasteles: Savory parcels of root veggies and meat, wrapped in banana leaves.
  • Tembleque or Arroz con Dulce: Sweet coconut desserts to finish the feast.

¡Buen provecho y Felices Fiestas!

May your table be filled with healthy, delicious food and your home with love, laughter, and Puerto Rican sazón. If you try this recipe, tag @HealthyRican on Instagram and TikTok and share your holiday memories with us!

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Recipe

Puerto Rican Potato Salad "Ensalada de Papa"

Ready to Make Your Own?

Let’s bring a little Puerto Rican sunshine to your holiday table with this healthy, flavor-packed Ensalada de Papa. It’s easy to make, totally customizable, and guaranteed to wow your guests!

Ingredients

  • 2 ½  lbs russet or yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1′′ cubes
  • 1-2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 3-4 eggs
  • 1 tbsp Healthy Rican Adobo 
  • 1 tbsp apple cider (or white) vinegar
  • 1 sweet apple (Honeycrisp or Gala), peeled, cored, diced (optional)
  • 3/4 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
  • ½ red onion, diced
  • ¼ cup chopped roasted red peppers
  • Diced ham (optional)
  • ¼ cup pitted green olives, chopped (optional)
  • 2 cups mayonnaise
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Paprika, green onions, roasted red peppers for garnish

Instructions

  1. Boil potatoes and carrots: Place potatoes and carrots in a large pot; cover with salted water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender (about 10–12 minutes). Drain and let cool. While potatoes cook, toss diced apple (if using) with vinegar to prevent browning and let sit.
  2. Cook the eggs: In a separate pot, boil eggs for 10 minutes. Cool, peel, and chop.
  3. Mix the salad: In a large bowl, combine the apples, with the rest of the ingredients. Once the potatoes are cool, add them along with the diced hard boiled eggs into the apple mix. Gently fold in the mayonnaise, coating everything evenly. Add extra mayo if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) for best flavor.

Serve: Garnish with paprika, green onions, cilantro or roasted red peppers. Serve cold and enjoy with your favorite Puerto Rican holiday dishes!

Equipment & Notes

Bring the flavor home

Explore our full collection of Healthy Rican seasonings, including staples like Adobo, Sazón, and Sofrito Seco. Whether you saw them in the recipe or want to try something new, these blends are made with all-natural ingredients and puro sabor.

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Mayra Luz Colón, Healthy Rican Cookbook

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The Healthy Rican Cookbook

The Healthy Rican Cookbook is a guide to making traditional Puerto Rican dishes in a healthier way. But it’s more than just recipes—it’s also a resource for choosing wholesome ingredients and cooking with intention.

Using a holistic nutrition approach, Mayra shares tips on how to select nourishing foods and combine them in ways that support better digestion and overall wellness.

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