Homemade Potato Salad Recipe (Step-by-Step Directions)

Potato Salad Recipe

Potato salad recipe lovers, rejoice! This delightful dish combines tender, creamy potatoes with a medley of crisp veggies, all enveloped in a tangy, zesty dressing that dances on your taste buds. Picture this: perfectly boiled potatoes mingling with crunchy celery, sweet onions, and a hint of mustard for that extra kick. Toss in a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess without the guilt, and you’ve got a side dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply enjoying at home. Dive into this vibrant, flavorful bowl of happiness and make every bite count!

Table of Contents
potato salad recipe

Potato Salad Recipe

Chef Jasper
Discover the perfect potato salad recipe that’s creamy, delicious, and sure to impress! Perfect for any gathering!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Pot For boiling potatoes.
  • 1 Large bowl For mixing the salad.
  • Plastic Wrap Cover To refrigerate the salad.

Ingredients
  

Potatoes

  • 2 pounds Potatoes Choose waxy varieties for creaminess.
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Opt for a good quality brand.

Dressing

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Enhances flavor with a bit of zest.
  • 1 cup Diced Celery Adds crunch and freshness.
  • 1 cup Diced Pickles For added flavor.
  • 1 small Onion Soak in water to mellow the flavor.
  • Salt and Pepper to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

  • Collect 2 pounds of potatoes, 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of mustard, 1 cup of diced celery, 1 cup of diced pickles, 1 small onion, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

  • Peel and chop the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Drain and Cool

  • Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool for about 15 minutes. This helps keep the salad from getting mushy!

Step 4: Mix the Dressing

  • In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

  • Add the cooled potatoes, diced celery, pickles, and onion to the dressing. Gently fold everything together until well coated.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to mingle beautifully!

Step 7: Enjoy!

  • Serve your creamy potato salad chilled, and watch it disappear at your next gathering!
Keyword Potato Salad

Why You’ll Love This Potato Salad Recipe

  • It’s creamy and dreamy, perfect for any gathering.
  • Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up.
  • Customizable to suit your taste—add herbs or spices!
  • Great for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day.
  • A crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together!

Recipe Snapshot

FeatureDetails
Category:Salad
Cuisine:American
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Dietary:Vegetarian
Serves:4-6
Best Served:Chilled

Ingredients for Potato Salad Recipe

  • Potatoes – the star of the dish; choose waxy varieties for creaminess.
  • Mayonnaise – adds creaminess and richness; opt for a good quality brand.
  • Greek Yogurt – a healthier alternative to sour cream; adds tanginess.
  • Dijon Mustard – enhances flavor with a bit of zest; use it to balance the creaminess.
  • Celery – adds crunch and freshness; chop finely for even distribution.
  • Red Onion – provides a mild sweetness; soak in water to mellow the flavor.
  • Hard-Boiled Eggs – adds protein and richness; ensure they are well-cooked.
  • Fresh Dill – brings a burst of herbal flavor; use fresh for the best taste.
  • Salt and Pepper – essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the perfect balance.
Ingredients for potato salad displayed on a wooden table.
All the fresh ingredients needed for a perfect potato salad.

How to Make the Potato Salad Recipe

Get ready to whip up a delicious potato salad that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Collect 2 pounds of potatoes, 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of mustard, 1 cup of diced celery, 1 cup of diced pickles, 1 small onion, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Peel and chop the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Drain and Cool

Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool for about 15 minutes. This helps keep the salad from getting mushy!

Step 4: Mix the Dressing

In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooled potatoes, diced celery, pickles, and onion to the dressing. Gently fold everything together until well coated.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to mingle beautifully!

Step 7: Enjoy!

Serve your creamy potato salad chilled, and watch it disappear at your next gathering!

A step-by-step guide to making potato salad with ingredients laid out on a kitchen counter.
Step-by-step guide to making a delicious potato salad.

Pro Tips for Making the Potato Salad Recipe

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy texture and buttery flavor.
• Let the potatoes cool completely before mixing to avoid a mushy salad.
• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick that brightens the flavors.
• Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a burst of freshness.
• Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

How to Serve Potato Salad Recipe

  • Pair with grilled chicken for a summer BBQ.
  • Serve alongside veggie burgers for a hearty vegetarian meal.
  • Top with fresh herbs like dill or chives for an extra flavor boost.
  • Enjoy as a filling side dish at picnics or potlucks.
  • Mix in some diced pickles for a tangy twist.
  • Serve chilled on a bed of greens for a refreshing salad.
  • Complement with a zesty lemon vinaigrette for a bright contrast.
  • Include hard-boiled eggs for added protein and richness.
  • Offer as a side to sandwiches or wraps for a complete lunch.
  • Try adding roasted vegetables for a unique flavor profile.

Make Ahead and Storage

Proper storage ensures your potato salad stays fresh and delicious!

Storing Leftovers

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
  • Cool the salad to room temperature before sealing.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
  • Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

  • Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
  • Leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
  • Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Reheating

  • Reheat gently in the microwave on low power.
  • Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
  • Add a splash of mayo or yogurt for creaminess.
  • Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

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FAQs

What type of potatoes are best for potato salad?

Waxy potatoes like red or Yukon Gold are ideal for potato salad. They hold their shape well and provide a creamy texture. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, as they can become mushy.

Can I make potato salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Potato salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, and the flavors will meld beautifully. Give it a good stir before serving.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or a mix of sour cream and mustard works wonderfully. They add creaminess without the heaviness of mayonnaise.

How can I add more flavor to my potato salad?

Consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley, or even a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Chopped pickles or capers can also enhance the flavor profile significantly.