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Simple Potato Salad Recipe

Servings: 4 Total Time: 30 hrs 45 mins Difficulty: Beginner
Discover a classic and easy potato salad recipe perfect for any occasion. This delicious side dish is quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Simple Potato Salad Recipe pinit

Simple Potato Salad Recipe is a beloved dish that has found its way onto picnic tables, barbecue spreads, and family dinners across the globe. This classic recipe combines tender, boiled potatoes with a creamy and tangy dressing, creating a versatile and flavorful side dish. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, sandwiches, and more. Dive into this timeless recipe and discover why potato salad continues to be a staple in kitchens everywhere.

  1. Easy to Prepare: Potato salad is quick and easy to make, even for novice cooks.
  2. Customizable: You can add or omit ingredients, experiment with different dressings, and incorporate your favorite herbs and spices.
  3. Affordable: Potatoes and basic ingredients like mayonnaise, mustard, and celery are inexpensive, making potato salad a budget-friendly option for feeding a crowd.
  4. Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a family picnic, backyard barbecue, potluck, or holiday meal, potato salad is a staple side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
  5. Nutrient-Rich: Potatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Adding vegetables and herbs enhances the nutritional value of the salad.

The origin of potato salad can be traced back to the early days of European cuisine. Potatoes, native to the Andean region of South America, were brought to Europe by Spanish explorers in the 16th century.

As European immigrants settled in the United States, they brought their potato salad recipes with them. Over time, these recipes evolved to include the creamy mayonnaise-based version that is popular in American cuisine today. The American-style potato salad, characterized by its creamy dressing, became a staple at picnics, barbecues, and potlucks, particularly in the 19th and 20th centuries.

  1. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
  2. Good Source of Fiber
  3. Protein Content
  4. Healthy Fats
  5. Antioxidants:
  6. Energy Boost
  7. Hydration
  8. Versatile Nutrient Additions
  9. Potential Probiotics
  • Opt for Greek Yogurt: Replace some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce calories and increase protein.
  • Use Healthy Oils: If making a vinaigrette-based potato salad, use olive oil or another healthy oil.
  • Add More Veggies: Incorporate a variety of colorful vegetables to boost the nutritional content.
  • Moderate Portions: Enjoy potato salad as part of a balanced meal to keep portions in check and avoid overconsumption.
Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 15 mins Rest Time 30 hrs Total Time 30 hrs 45 mins
Servings: 4 Calories: 358 kcal
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes

    Peel and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.

    Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil.

    Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.

    Drain and let cool.

  2. Prepare the Dressing

    In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper.

    Mix well until smooth.

  3. Combine Ingredients

    Add the chopped celery, red onion, pickles or relish, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and parsley (if using) to the dressing.

    Mix until well combined.

  4. Mix with Potatoes

    Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl with the dressing.

    Gently fold the potatoes into the dressing until everything is evenly coated.

  5. Chill & Serve

    Cover the potato salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

    Before serving, give the potato salad a good stir.

    Sprinkle with paprika for garnish, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 358kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 20g31%
Saturated Fat 3g15%
Cholesterol 107mg36%
Sodium 777mg33%
Potassium 677mg20%
Total Carbohydrate 36g12%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 3g
Protein 6g12%

Vitamin A 148 IU
Vitamin C 13 mg
Calcium 34 mg
Iron 1 mg
Vitamin B6 0.4 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Choosing the Potatoes

  • Yukon Gold or Russet: These types of potatoes hold their shape well and have a great texture for potato salad.
  • Consistency: Ensure the potatoes are cooked until just tender. Overcooking can lead to mushy potatoes.

Cooking the Potatoes

  • Uniform Size: Cut the potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
  • Start in Cold Water: Always start boiling the potatoes in cold water to cook them evenly.
  • Check for Doneness: Use a fork to check if the potatoes are tender. They should easily pierce but not fall apart.

Preparing the Dressing

  • Balance of Flavors: Taste the dressing before mixing it with the potatoes. Adjust salt, pepper, and vinegar to your liking.
  • Consistency: The dressing should be creamy but not too thick. Add a bit of pickle juice or water if it needs to be thinned.

Adding Mix-ins

  • Chopped Eggs: Make sure the hard-boiled eggs are fully cooled before chopping and adding them to the salad.
  • Crisp Vegetables: Celery and red onions add a nice crunch. Make sure they are finely chopped.

Mixing and Chilling

  • Gentle Mixing: Fold the potatoes into the dressing gently to avoid breaking them up.
  • Chill Time: Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.
  • Stirring Before Serving: Give the potato salad a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Serving Tips

  • Garnish: A sprinkle of paprika or some extra chopped parsley can make the presentation more appealing.
  • Storage: Potato salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s kept in an airtight container.

Safety

  • Temperature Control: Keep the potato salad chilled. If serving at a picnic or event, keep it on ice to prevent it from sitting out at room temperature for too long.
  • Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use clean utensils and bowls to prevent any contamination.

Enjoy your Potato Salad!

Keywords: All Recipes, Simple Potato Salad Recipe, American, Salad, Homemade, Side Dish

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
What ingredients do I need for a simple potato salad?

You will need potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, celery, onion, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include hard-boiled eggs, pickles, and fresh herbs like dill or parsley.

What type of potatoes should I use?

Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They hold their shape better after boiling compared to starchy potatoes like Russets.

How do I prepare the potatoes?

Wash, peel (if desired), and cut the potatoes into uniform pieces. Boil them in salted water until tender, then drain and let them cool.

How long should I boil the potatoes?

Boil the potatoes for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. They should be tender when pierced with a fork but not falling apart.

Can I make potato salad in advance?

Yes, potato salad can be made a day in advance. In fact, it often tastes better the next day after the flavors have melded together.

How do I store potato salad?

Store potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within 3-4 days.

Can I add other ingredients to the potato salad?

Absolutely! Common additions include chopped hard-boiled eggs, pickles, green onions, bacon bits, and fresh herbs.

How do I keep my potato salad from becoming watery?

Make sure to drain the potatoes well after boiling and let them cool completely before mixing with the other ingredients. Avoid over-mixing the salad.

What if I don't like mayonnaise?

You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream, or use a vinaigrette-based dressing instead.

How can I make the salad healthier?

Use a lighter dressing by mixing half mayonnaise with half Greek yogurt. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or peas.

What is the best way to serve potato salad?

Serve potato salad chilled as a side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, and other picnic or barbecue foods.

Can I freeze potato salad?

Freezing potato salad is not recommended as the texture of the potatoes and dressing can change and become unappealing.

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