Classic Old Fashioned Potato Salad Recipe – Perfect for BBQs

There’s something magical about Old Fashioned Potato Salad that instantly transports you back to backyard barbecues and family picnics. Imagine the creamy, tangy dressing clinging to tender potato chunks, while the crunch of celery and onion adds a delightful texture. This is not just a side dish; it’s a nostalgic experience that brings smiles with every bite. For more inspiration, check out this Snacks and appetizers recipe.

As you dive into this recipe, you’ll remember the laughter, sunshine, and maybe even Aunt Edna’s questionable potato salad from last summer. But fear not! This version will be the star of your next gathering, leaving everyone begging for seconds. Just think about it: warm weather, good company, and a giant bowl of Old Fashioned Potato Salad—what could possibly be better?

Sharing this delightful potato salad recipe with friends brought smiles all around during our last picnic, proving that good food truly brings people together.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Potatoes: Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for creaminess; they hold their shape well and absorb flavors beautifully.
• Mayonnaise: A rich, full-fat mayonnaise provides the best flavor and creaminess; low-fat versions often lack richness.
• Mustard: A spoonful of yellow mustard adds tanginess; feel free to experiment with Dijon for a kick.
• Celery: Chopped finely for crunch; fresh celery elevates the texture of the salad significantly.
• Red Onion: Adds a mild sweetness; soak in cold water beforehand to mellow its sharpness if desired.
• Pickles or Relish: Sweet or dill pickles can add zest; choose based on your personal preference.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skip these as they enhance all the flavors beautifully.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs (optional): Chopped eggs add creaminess and protein; include them if you desire extra richness.
• Fresh Herbs (optional): Dill or parsley can brighten up the flavor profile; add them just before serving for freshness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Those Potatoes: Start by washing your potatoes thoroughly under cool running water. Cut them into equal-sized cubes—about one inch works great—for even cooking.

Boil Until Tender: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot filled with salted water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then cook until fork-tender—around 10-15 minutes should do the trick.

Cool Them Down: Drain the cooked potatoes in a colander and let them rest until cool enough to handle. This prevents sogginess when mixing with the dressing.

Create Your Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste-test here; adjust seasoning if needed because nobody likes bland potato salad!

Toss It All Together: Gently fold in the cooled potatoes, chopped celery, red onion, pickles or relish, and hard-boiled eggs if using. Be careful not to mash those precious potatoes!

Chill Before Serving: Cover your potato salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together for an unforgettable taste sensation.

Enjoying Old Fashioned Potato Salad is more than just eating—it’s about savoring memories while making new ones around the table. So grab that big bowl and dig in!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the potatoes until tender but firm, about 15-20 minutes. Meanwhile, chop your veggies and prepare the dressing for seamless assembly once the potatoes cool.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients like using Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a healthier twist. Chopped pickles or bacon can also add delightful crunch and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store your potato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It’s best enjoyed cold, so no reheating is necessary!

Creating my Old Fashioned Potato Salad always reminds me of summer cookouts with friends. They would rave about it while I secretly took notes on their happy faces!

FAQ

What type of potatoes are best for Old Fashioned Potato Salad?

Waxy potatoes like red or Yukon Gold work best for creamy texture.

Can I make Old Fashioned Potato Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance for enhanced flavor.

Is there a vegan option for this potato salad?

Yes! Substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo or Greek yogurt for a plant-based version.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Old Fashioned Potato Salad

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• Author: mydishtoday
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

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Description

Old Fashioned Potato Salad is a timeless classic that captures the essence of summer gatherings. Creamy, tangy, and packed with delightful textures, this potato salad features tender potatoes mixed with crisp celery and sweet red onions, all enveloped in a rich mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for barbecues or family picnics, this dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings back cherished memories of laughter and sunshine. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, you’ll enjoy creating a crowd-pleasing side that leaves everyone asking for more.

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Ingredients

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• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped
• ½ cup red onion, diced
• ½ cup dill pickles or relish, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Wash and cube potatoes into one-inch pieces.
2. Cook cubed potatoes in salted water for about 10-15 minutes until fork-tender.
3. Drain and let the potatoes cool before mixing.
4. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Gently fold in cooled potatoes, celery, onion, pickles/relish, and hard-boiled eggs if using.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour for flavors to meld.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 80mg