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Best Classic Potato Salad Recipe

PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS
YIELDS:
6 SERVING(S)
Prep Time:
10 MINS
Total Time:
25 MINS
Cal/Serv:
632

Nutritional Information

Calories 632 kcal
Fat 48 g
Saturated fat 8 g
Trans fat 0 g
Cholesterol 122 mg
Sodium 849 mg
Carbohydrates 44 g
Fiber 6 g
Sugar 4 g
Protein 9 g
Vitamin D 1 µg
Calcium 55 mg
Iron 2 mg
Potassium 1086 mg

Note: The information shown is Edamam's estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist's advice.

When I set out to develop the perfect potato salad, I knew where I had to start: my dad’s recipe. His version of the classic side has become a family favorite. It’s creamy and tangy, with a little bit of crunch from the onion and pickles. Even more importantly, it’s not too sweet, which is one of my potato salad pet peeves. In short, it’s everything that potato salad should be.

Recipe Tips

  • To mellow the bite of the red onion a little bit, soak it in water while the potatoes cook.
  • Hard boiled eggs are optional for this recipe, but are great additions if you have time to add them. They’re a good source of protein, too! You can cook them alongside the potatoes, but make sure to time them to avoid overcooking (the yolk will turn gray when overdone).
  • This potato salad is best served slightly cook so refrigerate them after assembling all the ingredients. This will also allow the flavors to meld together.

Substitions & Alternatives

  • Not a fan of onions? While they provide a nice crunch and color to the finished salad, you can also use shallots or sibuyas Tagalog instead as they’re sweeter compared to red onions.
  • In place of Dijon mustard, you can also use whole-grain mustard to achieve that tangy, mildly spicy note but with a little more texture.

The full list of ingredients and directions can be found in the recipe below.

Storage

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, though potato salad is best consumed within 3 days for maximum freshness.

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Ingredients

  • 3 Pound potatoes, unpeeled, cut into 1/2" pieces
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 Small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1.5 Cup mayonnaise
  • 0.25 Cup finely chopped dill pickles
  • 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 Teaspoon paprika
  • 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 0.25 Cup thinly sliced chives
  • Freshly ground pepper
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Directions

Step 1

In a large pot, cover potatoes with water. Generously season with salt. Bring water to a boil and cook until potatoes are easily pierced with a knife, 12 to 15 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.

Step 2

In a large bowl, mix onion, mayonnaise, pickles, mustard, lemon juice, and paprika until well combined. Fold in potatoes, eggs, and chives. Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

This recipe was originally published in Delish US.

best potato salad
PHOTO: RACHEL VANNI; FOOD STYLING: SIMON ANDREWS

Frequently Asked Questions

The key to perfect texture is boiling your potatoes just until they are fork-tender—usually 12 to 15 minutes. To stop the cooking process immediately and prevent a mealy consistency, drain the potatoes promptly and allow them to cool slightly before folding them into your dressing.

Yes, making this dish ahead is actually recommended because it allows the flavors of the mustard, lemon juice, and paprika to meld. For the best taste and texture, prepare the salad at least 2 to 4 hours before serving and keep it chilled in the refrigerator.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. While it remains safe to eat for seven days, the salad is at its peak freshness and flavor when consumed within the first 3 days of preparation.

Depth of flavor starts in the pot, so ensure you generously salt the boiling water so the potatoes are seasoned from the inside out. If the finished dish lacks punch, add an extra splash of lemon juice or a pinch of salt to brighten the creamy mayonnaise base.

Absolutely; while onions and pickles provide the classic “crunch,” you can substitute them with celery or radishes for a similar texture. If you prefer a sweeter profile over a tangy one, you can swap the dill pickles for bread and butter pickles or sweet relish.

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