Classic Potato Salad: A Creamy, Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish
Few side dishes are as iconic at picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings as potato salad. This versatile dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even on its own for a hearty snack. Creamy, tangy, and loaded with flavor, a well-made potato salad is more than just boiled potatoes—it’s a celebration of textures and tastes.
Whether you’re making it for a summer cookout or a cozy dinner, this recipe will help you create the perfect classic potato salad that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 6–8 people. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Potatoes:
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2 pounds of Yukon Gold or red potatoes
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1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Dressing:
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½ cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1 teaspoon sugar
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Salt and pepper to taste
Mix-Ins and Garnish:
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3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
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2 celery stalks, finely diced
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½ small red onion, finely diced
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2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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Paprika for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Potatoes
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into even bite-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt.
Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart—about 10–15 minutes, depending on the size of your pieces. Test by piercing with a fork; it should slide in easily.
Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. For a creamier salad, some people like to peel them, but leaving the skins on adds texture and nutrients.
2. Prepare the Dressing
While the potatoes are cooling, make the dressing. In a medium bowl, combine:
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Mayonnaise
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Dijon mustard
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Apple cider vinegar
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Sugar
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Salt and pepper
Whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. The dressing should be slightly tangy, slightly sweet, and balanced in flavor.
3. Mix in Vegetables and Eggs
Dice the celery, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs. Add them to a large mixing bowl with the cooled potatoes. Sprinkle in the sweet pickle relish and chopped parsley if using.
Gently fold the dressing into the potatoes and vegetables, being careful not to mash the potatoes. You want a creamy coating that keeps the potatoes intact.
4. Chill for Best Flavor
For optimal taste, cover the potato salad and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours, or overnight if possible. Chilling allows the flavors to meld, making the salad even more delicious.
Before serving, give the potato salad a gentle stir and taste for seasoning. Add extra salt, pepper, or a dash of vinegar if needed. Sprinkle paprika on top for a classic, colorful presentation.
Tips for Perfect Potato Salad
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Choose the right potato – Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape better than starchy potatoes like Russets.
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Don’t overcook – Overcooked potatoes turn mushy and make the salad gluey. Aim for tender but firm.
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Balance flavors – The combination of creamy mayonnaise, tangy mustard, sweet relish, and crunchy vegetables gives classic potato salad its irresistible flavor.
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Make ahead – Potato salad actually tastes better the next day, making it a perfect dish for parties.
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Customize – Add ingredients like chopped bacon, green onions, or dill for extra flair.
Variations
While this is a classic creamy potato salad, there are many ways to adapt it:
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German-Style Potato Salad – Toss potatoes in a warm vinaigrette with bacon and onions instead of mayonnaise.
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Herbed Potato Salad – Add fresh herbs like dill, chives, or tarragon for a vibrant twist.
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Avocado Potato Salad – Substitute part of the mayonnaise with mashed avocado for a creamy, healthy alternative.
No matter the variation, the key is balanced flavors and tender potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Potato salad is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with:
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Grilled burgers, hot dogs, or sausages
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Roast chicken or turkey
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Pulled pork sandwiches
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Picnic staples like coleslaw, baked beans, or corn on the cob
Serve chilled, garnished with paprika or fresh herbs, for a classic summer side dish that everyone will love.
Why Potato Salad is a Crowd-Pleaser
There’s something comforting about potato salad that appeals to everyone. It’s creamy, tangy, and lightly sweet, with satisfying texture from potatoes, eggs, and crisp vegetables. It’s easy to make in large quantities and stores well, making it perfect for gatherings.
Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can adjust it to your family’s tastes without losing the classic appeal.
Final Thoughts
Potato salad isn’t just a side dish—it’s a tradition at barbecues, picnics, and family dinners. With tender potatoes, a flavorful dressing, and fresh mix-ins, it’s simple to make yet guaranteed to impress.