When you think of summer picnics or family barbecues, there’s always one dish that steals the show: Old Fashioned Potato Salad. Imagine creamy potatoes dancing with crunchy veggies and a tangy dressing that makes your taste buds tango. creamy mashed red potatoes This classic dish is not just food; it’s nostalgia served in a bowl, bringing back memories of sunny days and laughter echoing through the air. crunchy coleslaw for picnics.
Every scoop of Old Fashioned Potato Salad feels like a warm hug from grandma. It’s the kind of dish that sparks joy, whether you’re serving it at a potluck or enjoying it on a lazy afternoon. Get ready for an adventure in flavor that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Old Fashioned Potato Salad is easy to whip up, making meal prep a breeze
- It offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will please any palate
- The vibrant colors and creamy texture make it visually irresistible on any table
- Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just because you love potato salad!
I remember the first time I made Old Fashioned Potato Salad for my family picnic. The kids couldn’t get enough, and my uncle still talks about that day!

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold for their buttery texture and perfect creaminess. maple glazed sweet potatoes. For more inspiration, check out this Southern Maple Sweet Potato Casserole recipe.
- Mayonnaise: Choose full-fat mayo for the best creamy consistency; it really makes a difference.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a zingy flavor; don’t skip this ingredient if you enjoy some kick!
- Celery: Chop finely to add crunch and freshness; it balances the creaminess beautifully.
- Red Onion: A dash of color and sweetness; use sparingly if you’re not an onion fan.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: Essential for richness and protein; they make this salad heartier.
- Pickle Relish: Sweet or dill, it adds that nostalgic tang we all love in potato salad.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; these basic seasonings elevate all flavors in your salad.
- Fresh Herbs (like dill or parsley): Add at the end for a burst of freshness; they brighten everything up!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Boil the Potatoes: Start by peeling and cubing about 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes. Place them in a large pot of salted water over high heat until they boil. Cook until fork-tender but firm, about 10-15 minutes.
Prepare the Dressing: While your potatoes are cooking, mix 1 cup of mayonnaise with 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard in a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste—this is where you build flavor!
Add Crunchy Veggies: Once the potatoes cool down, combine them with diced celery, finely chopped red onion, and pickle relish in a large mixing bowl.
Incorporate Hard-Boiled Eggs: Gently fold in chopped hard-boiled eggs to add richness without breaking them too much—aim for chunks rather than mush.
Toss It All Together!: Pour your creamy dressing over the potato mixture. Carefully stir until everything is evenly coated—this is where magic happens! For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Vegan Potato Soup recipe.
Add Freshness Before Serving: Sprinkle fresh herbs like dill or parsley on top right before serving for that extra pop of color and flavor—trust me; it’s worth it!
Now that you’ve got your Old Fashioned Potato Salad prepped, it’s time to dig in! Enjoy this classic dish straight away or let it chill in the fridge for an hour to enhance those wonderful flavors even more.
Just picture yourself at a backyard barbecue with friends and family gathered around—a big bowl of Old Fashioned Potato Salad at the center of attention!
You Must Know
- Old Fashioned Potato Salad is a classic dish that thrives on balance, flavor, and texture
- The tangy dressing complements the creamy potatoes perfectly
- For best results, let it chill for a bit; flavors blend beautifully, making it irresistible at any gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes until tender, then prepare your dressing while they cool. This multitasking will save you time and ensure everything comes together beautifully.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in some diced pickles or crispy bacon for an extra kick. You can also try different herbs like dill or chives to personalize the flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store your potato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If needed, gently stir in a bit of mayo before serving to refresh its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Using waxy potatoes like red or Yukon gold enhances creaminess and prevents mushiness
- Let the potatoes cool completely before mixing with other ingredients for better flavor absorption
- Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving for maximum enjoyment
I still remember the first time I made Old Fashioned Potato Salad for my family picnic. They devoured it within minutes, leaving me wondering if I should’ve made more!
FAQ
Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, waxy potatoes are preferred but starchy ones can work too; just adjust cooking times.
How long can I store Old Fashioned Potato Salad?
It stays fresh in the fridge for up to three days if stored correctly.
Can I make Old Fashioned Potato Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making it a day beforehand allows flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
Old Fashioned Potato Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Old Fashioned Potato Salad is a classic side dish that brings nostalgia to any summer gathering. Creamy Yukon Gold potatoes are combined with crunchy vegetables and a tangy dressing, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply as a comfort food, this potato salad will be the star of your table, evoking memories of sunny days spent with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup celery (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 4 hard-boiled eggs (chopped)
- 1/4 cup pickle relish (sweet or dill)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (dill or parsley) for garnish
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Peel and cube the Yukon Gold potatoes. Place them in a large pot of salted water over high heat until boiling. Cook for 10-15 minutes until fork-tender but firm. Drain and let cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add Veggies: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled potatoes, celery, red onion, and pickle relish.
- Incorporate Eggs: Gently fold in chopped hard-boiled eggs.
- Combine: Pour dressing over potato mixture and stir until evenly coated.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs on top just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (230g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 170mg


