Potato salad is a classic side dish that can easily make or break any meal, whether it’s served at a summer BBQ, holiday gathering, or a simple family dinner. While many potato salad recipes exist, the key to a truly memorable dish lies in finding the right balance of creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements. This recipe stands out by offering just the right amount of flavor and texture, making it a crowd favorite every time.
What makes this potato salad extra special? Perfectly cooked potatoes, a flavorful dressing, a variety of tasty mix-ins, and a refreshing burst of fresh herbs come together to create a potato salad that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this mouthwatering potato salad, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 pounds of Yukon Gold or red potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or pickle juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus extra for boiling the potatoes)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup chopped dill pickles
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley or dill (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Potatoes
Start by placing the chopped potatoes into a large pot and covering them with cold, salted water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the potatoes simmer for about 10–12 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but not falling apart. Once done, drain the potatoes and spread them out on a baking sheet to cool slightly. Allowing the potatoes to cool a bit helps prevent them from becoming too mushy when mixed with the dressing.
2. Prepare the Dressing
While the potatoes are cooling, prepare the dressing in a separate bowl. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or pickle juice), sugar, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a tangier dressing, feel free to add a little more mustard or vinegar.
3. Assemble the Salad
Once the potatoes have cooled slightly, add them to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold in the celery, chopped dill pickles, red onion, and hard-boiled eggs. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. For a burst of fresh flavor, sprinkle in the freshly chopped parsley or dill and mix once more.
4. Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together and creates a more cohesive dish.
Before serving, give the salad a quick stir to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. For added color and flavor, sprinkle a dash of paprika on top.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What type of potatoes are best for potato salad?
Yukon Gold and red potatoes are perfect for potato salad because they hold their shape well after boiling and have a creamy texture. Avoid using starchy potatoes like russets, as they can turn mushy when mixed.
Can I make this potato salad ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! In fact, making the salad a few hours ahead (or even the day before) will allow the flavors to meld together better.
Can I customize this potato salad with additional ingredients?
Yes, feel free to customize the salad to suit your preferences. For example, crispy bacon, green onions, or even a bit of horseradish can be added for extra flavor. The base recipe is versatile and can easily be adjusted to your tastes.
How long can I store potato salad in the fridge?
If stored properly in an airtight container, this potato salad will last for up to 3–4 days in the fridge. Just make sure it stays chilled and is kept covered to maintain its freshness.
Can I use store-bought dressing?
While homemade dressing adds a fresh, customized flavor, you can substitute with store-bought dressing if you’re short on time. However, making your own dressing really enhances the flavor of the salad and gives it a unique touch.
Conclusion
This potato salad recipe is a perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and crunchy elements that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal, a BBQ, or a holiday feast, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. With just the right balance of ingredients and textures, this potato salad stands out as a crowd-pleaser and is sure to become a go-to recipe in your collection.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade potato salad, and don’t forget to make enough to share—everyone will be coming back for seconds!