This classic potato salad is a picnic favorite! It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor from tender potatoes, crunchy celery, and zesty pickles.
Honestly, I could eat this potato salad every day! It’s super easy to whip up and perfect for gatherings. Pair it with barbecue or just enjoy it on its own—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are my go-to since they are creamy and hold their shape well. Red potatoes work nicely too! If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you could try cauliflower, though it will change the texture quite a bit.
Hard-boiled eggs: They add protein and creaminess. If you prefer a vegan version, you can skip the eggs or try tofu for a similar texture.
Mayonnaise: Classic mayonnaise gives a rich flavor. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. If you’re avoiding eggs, check for egg-free mayo options!
Pickles: Dill pickles bring a nice tang. If you don’t have them, you can use capers or chopped olives for a different flavor twist. Sweet pickles work if you like a hint of sweetness in your salad.
How Do I Boil Potatoes Perfectly for My Salad?
Getting the right texture for your potatoes is crucial. Here’s the trick:
- Start with a large pot of cold, salted water. This helps the potatoes cook evenly.
- Add the potatoes whole and unpeeled to prevent them from absorbing too much water.
- Boil until fork-tender (15-20 minutes), but keep an eye on them. You want them to be firm enough to hold shape in the salad.
- Once done, drain them and let cool slightly before peeling and cutting. This keeps them from turning mushy!
Easy Classic Potato Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (about 6 medium) Yukon Gold or red potatoes
- 3 large hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, finely chopped (or sweet pickles if preferred)
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Paprika, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This easy classic potato salad takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’ll need around 1 hour and 30 minutes to have a delicious side dish ready! Perfect for picnics or barbecues.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Potatoes:
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly under cold water. Place them whole, with skin on, into a large pot filled with salted water. Bring the water to a gentle boil and cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender but still firm when pierced with a fork. Being careful not to overcook the potatoes will help maintain their shape!
2. Cooling and Chopping:
Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them sit until cool enough to handle. You can peel the skin off if you wish, then cut the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Set these aside in a large mixing bowl.
3. Mixing the Ingredients:
Add the chopped hard-boiled eggs, finely chopped celery, dill pickles, and optional red onion to the bowl with the potatoes.
4. Preparing the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Combining Everything:
Pour the dressing over the potato and vegetable mixture. Gently fold everything together until all the ingredients are coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the potatoes!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar depending on your preference.
7. Chilling Time:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, or transfer the potato salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together. This also helps the salad chill, making it extra refreshing!
8. Serving:
Just before serving, sprinkle with a bit of paprika and fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor, if desired. Enjoy your classic, easy potato salad with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone dish at your next picnic or barbecue!
Enjoy your delicious homemade potato salad!
FAQ for Easy Classic Potato Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold and red potatoes are great for their creamy texture, but you can also use white or new potatoes. Just make sure to pick a waxy variety that holds its shape well when boiled.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Potato Salad?
Leftover potato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to check for freshness before enjoying it again!
Can I Make This Potato Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance and let it chill in the fridge overnight. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even tastier!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise. Both will still give a creamy texture with a slightly different flavor!
