Description
Potato Salad
Simple, creamy, and packed with flavor! This Potato Salad is a crowd-pleasing recipe made with eggs, mustard, and fresh green onions.
Ingredients:
3 hard-boiled eggs, diced
4 cups boiled potatoes, cubed
1 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup green onions (chopped)
Pinch of smoked paprika for garnish
Instructions:
Cube cooled boiled potatoes and chop eggs.
Combine potatoes, eggs, and green onions in a bowl.
Stir in mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until well mixed.
Dust with smoked paprika for extra flavor.
#CreamySaladVibes
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the Potatoes: Boil 2-3 pounds of Yukon Gold or russet potatoes (skin-on for texture) in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let them cool completely. 2. Prepare the Eggs: While potatoes cook, place eggs in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 10-12 minutes. Transfer to an ice bath, then peel and dice. 3. Combine the Base: Cube the cooled potatoes and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add the diced eggs and chopped green onions. 4. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth. 5. Assemble the Salad: Pour the dressing over the potato mixture. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated. Be careful not to over-mix and mash the potatoes. 6. Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, give it a final gentle stir and dust with smoked paprika.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile potato salad is the perfect side dish. Serve it at your next barbecue alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, or chicken. It also pairs wonderfully with sandwiches, fried chicken, or as part of a picnic or potluck spread. For a fresher twist, garnish with extra chopped chives, dill, or crispy bacon bits right before serving.
How-to Summary
To make classic creamy potato salad: boil and cube potatoes, hard-boil and dice eggs, then combine them with green onions. Mix with a simple dressing of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Chill thoroughly before garnishing with paprika and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this potato salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, it tastes better when made a day ahead. The extra chilling time allows the flavors to develop fully. Store it covered in the refrigerator.
2. What are the best potatoes to use?
Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture that holds its shape. Russets also work but can become mealy if overmixed. Avoid waxy red potatoes if you prefer a creamier, not firm, salad.
3. How long does homemade potato salad last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, it will keep for 3 to 5 days. Always keep it refrigerated and discard if it develops an off smell or appearance.
4. Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
Yes. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt or a half-and-half mix of mayo and yogurt. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan mayonnaise alternative.
5. My salad turned out too dry. How can I fix it?
Simply stir in an extra tablespoon or two of mayonnaise until you reach your desired creaminess. Add a splash of pickle juice for extra flavor and moisture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm potatoes: Mixing the dressing with warm potatoes will make the salad soggy and can cause the mayo to break. Ensure potatoes are completely cooled.
- Overmixing: Stir gently to combine. Aggressive mixing will break down the potatoes into a gluey, mashed texture.
- Underseasoning: Potatoes need salt. Season the boiling water generously and taste the finished salad before serving, adding more salt or a pinch of pepper as needed.
- Skipping the chill time: Serving immediately means the flavors won’t have time to meld. Patience is key for the best taste.
Conclusion
This classic creamy potato salad is a timeless recipe that’s deceptively simple to master. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a perfectly seasoned, flavorful side dish that’s sure to be the hit of any gathering. Its creamy texture, tangy mustard kick, and satisfying heartiness make it an indispensable addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the #CreamySaladVibes!
