If you are looking for the best Potato Salad Recipe then you are in the right place. A summer gathering wouldn’t be a summer gathering without my potato salad. Potato salad is a classic dish that holds a special place not just with me but with many. Who made the potato salad is a question I hear when the potato salad is exceptionally good or not so good. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through an easy potato salad recipe that will have your family and friends wanting more. When asked “who made the potato salad?” you can proudly take your claim. Let’s dive into the world of potato salad and make the best one you’ve ever tasted!
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How to Make the Best Potato Salad
When making potato salad that is worthy to be taken to the cookout, it’s all in the freshness of the ingredients, the blend of seasonings and in the selection of potato. Using fresh ingredients will always insure a better final result. For this recipe I kept it simple because less is more. I used fresh onion and celery to add both flavor and crunch to my potato salad. For the seasoning I kept it simple also. The combination of salt, black pepper and paprika was all I needed to enhance the rich creamy salad.
What’s the Best Potato to use to make Potato Salad
While this recipe calls for Yukon potatoes, you can experiment with other types to find your favorite version of potato salad. I have made potato salad using all of the following and each one is uniquely delicious. Different potatoes will give you a different taste, experiment and see which one will be your favorite.
- Yukon Potatoes: These are my potato of choice because they are very good at holding their shape well. They have a creamy texture and they are slightly sweet and buttery. These potatoes are perfect for a rich and satisfying potato salad.
- Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are my multi-purpose potato. I often use these potatoes to make potato salad. The end result is usually a lot creamier that when I use other types of potatoes. Russet potatoes absorb flavors well and create a soft, fluffy texture.
- Red Potatoes: These potatoes are firm in texture and has a slightly sweet taste, red potatoes hold their shape well after cooking. They add a lovely color and a firmer bite to the salad.
- Fingerling Potatoes: These small, thin-skinned potatoes are often colorful and add an interesting visual and textural element to your potato salad. They have a waxy texture and hold their shape beautifully.
Each type of potato brings a unique flavor and texture to the salad, so feel free to explore and find which the one you like best!
Watch Video Tutorial for Potato Salad
Ingredients
- Yukon Potatoes: They provide a tender yet firm base that absorbs flavors well while maintaining their shape.
- Boiled Eggs: Eggs contribute protein and help bind the salad together, adding depth to each bite.
- Mayonnaise: It forms the creamy base of the salad, providing moisture and richness that coats the potatoes and other ingredients.
- Yellow Mustard: Adds a tangy kick and a burst of color, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the salad.
- Dijon Mustard: Provides a subtle, sophisticated heat and depth, balancing the flavors of the salad.
- Sweet Relish: Adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the creamy and savory elements, providing a refreshing crunch.
- Celery: Contributes a crisp texture and a fresh, slightly peppery flavor, adding a delightful crunch to the salad.
- Onion: Adds a zesty, slightly sweet flavor and a bit of crunch, enhancing the overall taste and texture of the salad.
- Chicken Broth Powder: Infuses the potatoes with a savory depth of flavor during the cooking process, making each bite more flavorful.
- Paprika: Adds a pop of color and a mild, smoky-sweet flavor, enhancing both the visual appeal and taste of the salad.
- Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth, balancing the creamy and tangy elements of the salad.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the salad, ensuring each ingredient shines and the dish is well-seasoned.
Instructions
Pre-chop your celery, onion and boiled eggs.
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Add water to a pot and bring it to a light simmer. Next add the chicken broth powder and mix until it has dissolved. The chicken broth powder will add rich flavor to the potatoes.
Bring the water to a boil, then add the potatoes.Reduce the heat to medium and cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, until tender. Drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, and sweet relish. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Add the finely chopped onion, celery, and boiled eggs to the dressing.
Add the cooled potatoes and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix all ingredients until well combined.
What to Eat With Potato Salad
Potato salad is a side dish that pairs well with so many different main courses. Here are a few great ideas to make your meal complete:
- Grilled Meats: Potato salad is the perfect companion to grilled chicken, steak, or burgers. The creamy, tangy flavors complement the smoky, savory taste of grilled meats.
- BBQ Ribs: The rich and sweet flavors of BBQ ribs go hand in hand with the cool, creamy potato salad. It’s a classic combination that’s hard to beat.
- Sandwiches: Serve potato salad alongside a deli sandwich or a classic ham and cheese for a simple yet satisfying lunch.
- Fried Chicken: The crunchy, savory taste of fried chicken paired with the creamy, tangy potato salad is a match made in heaven.
- Seafood: Potato salad can also pair nicely with grilled or baked fish, providing a hearty and satisfying side dish.
No matter what you choose to pair it with, potato salad is sure to enhance your meal with its comforting and delicious presence.
Storing Potato Salad
Proper storage is important to keeping your potato salad fresh and safe to eat. Here are some tips for storing potato salad:
- Refrigerate Promptly: After making your potato salad, refrigerate it within two hours to prevent bacterial growth. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- Shelf Life: Potato salad can be kept in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Always check for any signs of spoilage, such as a sour smell or discoloration, before eating leftovers.
- Freezing: Potato salad is not ideal for freezing because the texture of the potatoes and the mayonnaise-based dressing can change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your potato salad safely and at its best quality.
Potato salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a beloved comfort food that brings people together. With this simple and delicious recipe, you can create a potato salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you choose Yukon, Russet, Red, or Fingerling potatoes, each type will bring its unique flavor and texture to the dish. Pair your potato salad with grilled meats, BBQ ribs, sandwiches, fried chicken, or seafood for a complete and satisfying meal.
Remember to store your potato salad properly to enjoy it for several days. Its creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors are sure to delight your taste buds and those of your family and friends.
So, the next time you’re planning a meal, consider making this potato salad. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and always a hit. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious potato salad!
Other Great Recipes
- Chicken Salad – easy to make any night of the week.
- Classic Macaroni Salad – delicious salad that is a favorite side for your summer gatherings
- Seafood Mac and Cheese – treat yourself to this rich blend of cheese, crab, shrimp and lobster
- Black Bean Salad – a fresh healthy salad full of flavor and bright colors.