If you’re craving a picnic classic that never goes out of style, this Classic Potato Salad Recipe is the perfect go-to. It’s the kind of dish that combines creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements into one bowl, making every bite a delightful celebration of simple ingredients working in harmony. Whether you’re bringing it to a family barbecue or enjoying it as a satisfying side, this recipe offers that comforting nostalgia with a fresh, vibrant twist you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Classic Potato Salad Recipe lies in its straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients that each add their own magic. Every component plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this salad utterly irresistible.
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold or red potatoes: These provide a creamy yet firm base that holds together beautifully after boiling.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: The rich and smooth dressing that brings everything together with a luscious mouthfeel.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds just the right tangy zip to brighten the mayo and balance the flavors.
- 1 cup chopped celery: For a crisp, refreshing crunch that adds texture and freshness.
- ½ cup finely diced red onion: Offers a sharp bite and vibrant color to make the salad pop.
- ¼ cup sweet pickle relish: Adds sweet, tangy notes and little bursts of flavor that keep each forkful interesting.
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped: Boosts the creaminess and adds a subtle savory depth to the salad.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the ingredients into perfect balance.
How to Make Classic Potato Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Start by washing your potatoes thoroughly and placing them in a large pot filled with salted water. Boil the potatoes for approximately 15 minutes or until they are fork-tender but not falling apart. This precise cooking ensures a tender texture that still holds its shape in the salad. After draining, let the potatoes cool slightly before cutting them into bite-sized pieces to avoid mushiness.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
While the potatoes are boiling, finely chop the celery and red onion. These ingredients are vital as they add crunch and a fresh sharpness, giving the salad its signature textural contrast that keeps every bite exciting.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and sweet pickle relish. Season generously with salt and pepper. This dressing is creamy, tangy, and just slightly sweet, marrying all the flavors of the potato salad perfectly.
Step 4: Mix the Salad Components
In a large bowl, gently fold the potatoes, chopped celery, onion, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. The eggs add richness and a subtle savoriness that complements the crisp vegetables and soft potatoes.
Step 5: Combine with Dressing
Pour the prepared dressing over the potato mixture and carefully fold everything together. Take care not to mash the potatoes; the goal is to coat each piece evenly without losing that ideal texture.
Step 6: Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour. This resting time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and serves the salad nicely chilled, the perfect way to enjoy this Classic Potato Salad Recipe.
How to Serve Classic Potato Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, consider garnishing your potato salad with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives. A dash of paprika or a few crunchy bacon bits can also add delightful color and texture contrasts that make your dish even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Classic Potato Salad works wonders alongside grilled meats such as barbecue chicken, ribs, or steak. It also pairs beautifully with sandwiches or fried foods, adding a cool, creamy counterbalance to richer main dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your potato salad in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic, fun touch at casual gatherings. Alternatively, layer it in a trifle dish with greens and colorful veggies for an eye-catching picnic centerpiece that’s both delicious and beautiful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Classic Potato Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to three days, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy weekends or family meals.
Freezing
Freezing potato salad is not recommended as the mayonnaise and potatoes tend to separate and become watery upon thawing, which impacts the creamy texture that is so beloved.
Reheating
This salad is traditionally served cold, so reheating is unnecessary. If you prefer a slightly warmer version, bring it to room temperature by letting it sit out of the fridge for about 20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this salad?
Yes, you can, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best due to their creamy texture and ability to hold shape after boiling. Russets tend to be too crumbly.
Is it okay to omit the eggs?
Absolutely! If you want a simpler or egg-free version, just skip the eggs. The salad will still be delicious and creamy thanks to the mayonnaise and mustard dressing.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan Classic Potato Salad Recipe, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and omit the eggs. The taste will be different but still satisfying.
How long can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best served within a day or two after making it. Allowing it to rest for at least an hour before serving helps flavors meld, but avoid making it more than 48 hours ahead to maintain freshness.
What’s the best way to boil potatoes for this salad?
Boil the potatoes whole with the skin on and salted water, then peel once cool for easier handling and to prevent them from soaking up too much water. This method preserves texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Potato Salad Recipe is truly a timeless favorite that brings comfort and joy to any meal. With its perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements, it’s a dish that’s easy to make and incredible to share. Give it a try for your next gathering or a simple weeknight treat—you just might find it becoming your new backyard barbecue star.
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Classic Potato Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Classic Potato Salad is a creamy, tangy side dish featuring tender Yukon Gold or red potatoes mixed with crunchy celery, red onion, hard-boiled eggs, and a flavorful dressing made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and sweet pickle relish. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings, this recipe yields 8 servings and is easy to prepare with just a few simple steps.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold or red potatoes
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup sweet pickle relish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Add-ins
- 1 cup chopped celery
- ½ cup finely diced red onion
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes: Wash and place potatoes in a large pot with salted water. Boil for about 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare Vegetables: Finely chop celery and red onion while the potatoes are boiling to save time and ensure freshness.
- Make Dressing: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently fold together the cut potatoes, chopped celery, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs, taking care not to break the potatoes.
- Add Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the potato mixture and gently fold until everything is evenly coated without mashing the potatoes.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes as they hold their shape well during boiling and provide a creamy texture.
- Be gentle when folding ingredients to keep the potatoes intact.
- Refrigerating the potato salad improves the flavor and texture.
- You can adjust the amount of mayonnaise or mustard to suit your taste preferences.
- Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra burst of flavor if desired.
