Classic Creamy Potato Salad Recipe: A Timeless, Delicious Side Dish

Looking for the perfect side dish for your next BBQ, picnic, or family gathering? This Classic Creamy Potato Salad is the ideal choice! With a creamy, tangy dressing and tender potatoes, it’s sure to be a hit at any event. This easy-to-make recipe requires just a few ingredients and simple steps, making it a go-to dish for every occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Creamy Potato Salad

• Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of ingredients that you probably already have at home.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ, holiday gathering, or a potluck, this potato salad fits right in.
• Delicious & Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding ingredients like celery, onion, or even hard-boiled eggs for extra flavor and texture.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Potato salad tastes even better when it’s allowed to chill and the flavors meld together, making it perfect for prepping in advance.

Ingredients

for Classic Creamy Potato Salad

To make this Classic Creamy Potato Salad, you’ll need:

• 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet, peeled or unpeeled, based on preference)
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (for a slight tang)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the tanginess)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies
• 2-3 hard-boiled eggs (optional but highly recommended for extra richness)
• 1/2 cup chopped celery (adds crunch and freshness)
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion (for a mild onion flavor)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or dill (optional, for garnish)
• Paprika (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Creamy Potato Salad

1. Cook the Potatoes:

   • Begin by washing and peeling (or leaving the skins on) your potatoes. Cut them into evenly sized chunks (about 1-2 inches).
   • Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water to help season the potatoes as they cook.
   • Bring the water to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cook the potatoes for about 10-15 minutes or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Be careful not to overcook them to prevent them from falling apart.

2. Prepare the Dressing:

   • While the potatoes are cooking, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.

3. Cool the Potatoes:

   • Once the potatoes are done, drain them and allow them to cool slightly. You can speed up the cooling process by rinsing them under cold water or placing them in a colander to drain thoroughly.
   • After cooling, cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces if they aren’t already.

4. Assemble the Potato Salad:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, 1/2 cup chopped celery, 1/4 cup chopped red onion, and 2-3 hard-boiled eggs (if using). Gently toss them together to combine.
   • Pour the prepared dressing over the potatoes and mix gently until everything is well coated.

5. Chill and Serve:

   • Cover the potato salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
   • Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or dill and a sprinkle of paprika for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Tips for the Best Classic Creamy Potato Salad

• Choosing the Right Potatoes: For a creamy texture, opt for Yukon Gold potatoes, which have a smooth, buttery flavor. Russet potatoes also work well but tend to be a bit fluffier.
• Customize Your Salad: Add in extras like pickles, green onions, or crisp bacon for unique flavor twists.
• Making It Dairy-Free: To make this recipe dairy-free, use a vegan mayonnaise and substitute the hard-boiled eggs with chickpeas or avocado for added creaminess.
• Make Ahead: Potato salad is always better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop, so it’s perfect for preparing in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How long can I store Classic Creamy Potato Salad?
A1: This potato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it cold and covered to maintain freshness.

Q2: Can I make potato salad without mayo?
A2: Yes! If you’re not a fan of mayo, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a vinaigrette dressing for a lighter version of potato salad.

Q3: Can I add other ingredients to the potato salad?
A3: Absolutely! Many people enjoy adding ingredients like bacon, pickles, green onions, or cheddar cheese. Feel free to get creative and adjust the recipe to your liking.

Q4: What’s the best way to boil potatoes for potato salad?
A4: The key is to not overcook the potatoes. Boil them until they are just tender enough to pierce with a fork. If they become too soft, they can fall apart when mixed, which is something you want to avoid.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Classic Creamy Potato Salad Recipe

This Classic Creamy Potato Salad is the perfect side dish for any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a family BBQ, a potluck, or a holiday gathering, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and a flavor-packed result, this recipe is sure to become your go-to potato salad.