This creamy potato salad is a crowd-pleaser! It’s made with tender potatoes, rich mayonnaise, and a sprinkle of sweet mustard that adds a nice zing.
Perfect for picnics or BBQs, this dish always brings smiles. I love adding a few chopped pickles for that extra crunch. Trust me, your friends will be asking for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Yukon Gold for a creamier texture, but red potatoes work well too. If you prefer a healthier option, try sweet potatoes for a fun twist.
Mayonnaise: For a lighter version, substitute with Greek yogurt. It gives creaminess with added protein. If you like tanginess, try adding a bit of sour cream too!
Mustards: Dijon adds a nice kick, but if you’re out, yellow mustard is a good substitute. You could even use whole grain mustard for a bit of crunch and flavor.
Pickle Relish: Sweet pickle relish adds sweetness, but if you’re a dill person, use chopped dill pickles instead. It gives a zesty contrast.
How Do I Cook Potatoes Perfectly for Salad?
Cooking potatoes just right is key to a great potato salad. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by placing cleaned potatoes in a pot, covering them with cold water. This helps them cook evenly.
- Add a pinch of salt to the water, which enhances the flavor of the potatoes.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Check for doneness after 10 minutes. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork, but not mushy.
- Drain them well and let them cool slightly before adding to your salad to avoid overmixing and turning mushy.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfect potatoes every time!
The Best Creamy Potato Salad Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish or chopped dill pickles
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20 minutes for preparation and cooking, plus at least 1 hour for chilling. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. So, with a little patience, you’ll have a delicious creamy potato salad ready to impress your friends and family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Start by placing the potato chunks in a large pot. Add cold water to cover the potatoes and toss in a pinch of salt. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Mix the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, and apple cider vinegar until you have a smooth mixture. This creamy dressing will be the heart of your salad.
3. Combine Everything:
Once the potatoes have cooled slightly, add them to the bowl with the dressing. Toss in the finely chopped celery, red onion, hard-boiled eggs, and your choice of pickle relish. Gently fold everything together, being careful not to mash the potatoes; you want them to stay in nice chunks!
4. Season and Chill:
Now, sprinkle in some salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or put it in an airtight container, then place it in the refrigerator. Allow the salad to chill for at least an hour – this is when all the flavors meld together perfectly.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, give the potato salad a gentle stir. If you’d like, you can garnish it with freshly chopped parsley or dill for that extra touch. Serve it cold or at room temperature, and watch everyone enjoy every last bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and red potatoes are great for their creamy texture, you can also use fingerling or even russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that russets may become a bit fluffier, which can change the texture of your salad.
How Long Can Potato Salad Be Stored?
Your creamy potato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to give it a gentle stir before serving, as the ingredients may settle a bit over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, making it ahead of time is a great idea! In fact, chilling it overnight will enhance the flavors even more. Just cover it well to keep it fresh in the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of mayonnaise. This will give you creaminess with added tang! You might want to adjust seasonings a tad, since these alternatives can be a bit more tart.
