Classic Creamy Potato Salad

Ah, Classic Creamy Potato Salad—a timeless dish that’s always the star of picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. Picture this: tender potatoes, lovingly coated in a creamy, tangy dressing that’s perfectly seasoned with a dash of mustard and a hint of sweetness. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings back memories of sunny days and outdoor feasts. If you’re craving a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, this is the one. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought versions again. Let’s dive in and make this classic favorite!

Why You’ll Love Classic Creamy Potato Salad

• Comforting & Hearty: This potato salad is the epitome of comfort food. It’s hearty enough to be a side dish at a barbecue but delicious enough to steal the show!
• Perfectly Creamy: The secret to this potato salad is the balance of creamy mayo with a hint of tangy mustard. It’s rich without being heavy.
• Easy to Make: This recipe doesn’t require any complicated steps. It’s straightforward, making it perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned kitchen pros.
• Customizable: You can tweak this salad to make it your own. Add in some hard-boiled eggs, crispy bacon, or even fresh herbs to elevate the flavor.
• Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering, from casual cookouts to holiday feasts. Everyone loves a classic potato salad!

Ingredients

For the Potato Salad:

• Potatoes: The star of the dish. Opt for waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they hold their shape and texture well after boiling.
• Eggs: Adds a creamy richness to the salad and brings it all together.
• Celery: Chopped for crunch, adding a nice texture contrast to the creamy dressing.
• Red onion: Finely chopped for a little bite and a burst of flavor.
• Pickles: Chopped dill pickles bring the perfect tanginess that complements the creamy dressing.

For the Dressing:

• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the dressing. Use full-fat mayo for a rich, smooth texture.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a little tang and depth to the dressing.
• Apple cider vinegar: For that extra kick of acidity and brightness.
• Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance out the tanginess of the mustard and vinegar.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for the perfect seasoning.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Ready to make this Classic Creamy Potato Salad? Let’s get started!

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by boiling your potatoes. Place them in a large pot of cold water, and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender (about 10-15 minutes). Be careful not to overcook them, or they may become too mushy. Once they’re done, drain the potatoes and let them cool.

Step 2: Boil the Eggs

While the potatoes are cooking, place the eggs in a separate pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes. After they’re done, cool the eggs under cold running water, peel them, and chop them into small pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Veggies

While the potatoes and eggs cool, chop the celery, red onion, and pickles. You can adjust the quantities of these ingredients based on your preference for crunch and flavor.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed. You want it tangy with a subtle sweetness, so feel free to tweak it to your liking.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once the potatoes have cooled to room temperature, cut them into bite-sized cubes. In a large mixing bowl, combine the potatoes, chopped eggs, celery, onion, and pickles. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss everything together, making sure everything is evenly coated.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, cover the potato salad and refrigerate it for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight. This will allow all the flavors to meld together and create a creamy, delicious salad. Serve chilled, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 290
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 380mg
Total Carbohydrate: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 6g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1-2 hours
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

How to Serve Classic Creamy Potato Salad

• As a Side Dish: This is the perfect complement to grilled meats, burgers, and hot dogs at your next cookout or barbecue.
• With Sandwiches: It pairs beautifully with a sandwich, whether it’s a classic BLT or a hearty turkey club.
• As Part of a Picnic: Pack this in your picnic basket with some fresh fruit, cheese, and a refreshing drink for a well-rounded outdoor meal.
• Holiday Gatherings: Whether it’s Easter, Thanksgiving, or a summer holiday, this potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser at family get-togethers.

Additional Tips

• Hard-Boiled Eggs: If you want your salad to be extra creamy, add more hard-boiled eggs. They help give the salad that perfect texture.
• Make Ahead: This potato salad actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Make it a day ahead for the best results.
• Customize: Feel free to add ingredients like crumbled bacon, green onions, or fresh herbs for added flavor.
• Vegan Version: For a vegan version, you can swap the mayo for a dairy-free alternative, and use a plant-based egg substitute in place of the eggs.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this potato salad ahead of time?
A1: Yes! In fact, it’s better if you make it ahead of time to let the flavors meld together. Just refrigerate it for 1-2 hours or overnight.

Q2: Can I use a different type of potato?
A2: You can use any type of waxy potato, such as red potatoes or fingerlings, for this recipe. Just avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they can break apart too easily.

Q3: Can I use store-bought mayonnaise for the dressing?
A3: Yes, you can absolutely use store-bought mayo! For a homemade touch, try making your own mayo, though.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q5: Can I add bacon to this recipe?
A5: Yes! Crumbled crispy bacon adds a fantastic smoky flavor and crunchy texture.

Q6: Can I make this potato salad without eggs?
A6: Absolutely! You can omit the eggs if you prefer a lighter salad or have dietary restrictions.

Q7: How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?
A7: Make sure to cook the potatoes until they’re just fork-tender. Don’t overcook them, and let them cool slightly before handling.

Q8: Can I use mustard other than Dijon?
A8: Yes! You can use yellow mustard or even spicy brown mustard if you prefer a different flavor.

Q9: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo?
A9: You can substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayo for a tangy twist and healthier version of the salad.

Q10: Can I freeze potato salad?
A10: It’s not recommended to freeze potato salad because the texture of the potatoes can change once frozen and thawed.

Conclusion

This Classic Creamy Potato Salad is the perfect side dish for any occasion, whether you’re grilling burgers, enjoying a holiday meal, or simply craving comfort food. With its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and irresistible taste, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab your potatoes, make the creamy dressing, and enjoy a dish that’s sure to bring everyone to the table!

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