Potato Salad Recipe

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Update : March 29, 2026

Delicious homemade potato salad served in a bowl with fresh herbs

Why Make This Recipe

Potato salad is a classic dish enjoyed at picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. Its creamy, tangy flavor pairs well with many main dishes, making it a versatile side. This recipe for potato salad is not only simple to make but also allows for customization. It’s a great way to use up leftover potatoes and can be made ahead of time, saving you stress when hosting guests.

How to Make Potato Salad

Making potato salad is straightforward and fun! Here’s how to do it step-by-step.

Ingredients:

  • 6 medium potatoes (around 3 pounds)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, chopped
  • 4 eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
  • 2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 2 tablespoons pickle relish
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 spring onions, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Directions:

  1. Scrub, peel, and cut the potatoes into one-inch cubes.
  2. Place the potato cubes into a large pot and cover them with water.
  3. Boil the potatoes over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes until they are firm-tender. You can check doneness by inserting a fork into a potato cube.
  4. Drain the cooked potatoes and set them aside to cool.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes with chopped onions and celery.
  6. Hard-boil the eggs, let them cool, and then peel them.
  7. You can either push the eggs through a cooling rack over the potato mixture or chop them and add them to the bowl.
  8. In a separate bowl, mix the dressing ingredients: vinegar, mayonnaise, mustard, pickle relish, salt, and pepper.
  9. Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and gently mix everything until well combined.
  10. Finally, sprinkle the sliced spring onions and paprika on top for added flavor.

How to Serve Potato Salad

Potato salad is best served chilled. You can enjoy it on its own or as a side dish with grilled chicken, burgers, or sandwiches. Garnish with extra spring onions or paprika if desired to add a pop of color and flavor.

How to Store Potato Salad

If you have leftovers, store the potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to stir it before serving again, as the ingredients may settle over time.

Tips to Make Potato Salad

  • Choose waxy potatoes, like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, for a creamier texture.
  • For extra flavor, you can add diced pickles or a splash of lemon juice.
  • Be gentle when mixing the ingredients to avoid mashing the potatoes.
  • If you want a little more crunch, consider adding diced bell peppers or relish.

Variation

You can customize your potato salad in many ways! Add chopped herbs like dill or parsley for freshness. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier twist or throw in some cooked bacon (if not avoiding pork) for added flavor.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make potato salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Potato salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Q2: How can I make my potato salad creamier?
A: Adding more mayonnaise or a dollop of sour cream can help make your potato salad creamier.

Q3: What type of potatoes are best for potato salad?
A: Waxy potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, work best because they hold their shape and have a creamier texture.

Print
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Classic Potato Salad


  • Author: jena
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A creamy and tangy potato salad perfect for picnics and gatherings, easily customizable and can be made ahead of time.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 medium potatoes (around 3 pounds)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, chopped
  • 4 eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
  • 2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 2 tablespoons pickle relish
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 spring onions, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. Scrub, peel, and cut the potatoes into one-inch cubes.
  2. Place the potato cubes into a large pot and cover them with water.
  3. Boil the potatoes over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes until they are firm-tender.
  4. Drain the cooked potatoes and set them aside to cool.
  5. Combine the cooled potatoes with chopped onions and celery in a large mixing bowl.
  6. Hard-boil the eggs, let them cool, and then peel them.
  7. Push the eggs through a cooling rack over the potato mixture or chop them and add them to the bowl.
  8. Mix the dressing ingredients: vinegar, mayonnaise, mustard, pickle relish, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
  9. Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and gently mix everything until well combined.
  10. Sprinkle the sliced spring onions and paprika on top for added flavor.

Notes

Best served chilled; can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Stir before serving.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 160mg

Keywords: potato salad, side dish, picnic food, barbecue, creamy salad

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