Classic Creamy Potato Salad – A Perfectly Creamy Side Dish

Meta Description:

This Classic Creamy Potato Salad recipe is a crowd-pleaser with tender potatoes, a rich and creamy dressing, and crunchy vegetables. It’s the perfect side dish for summer BBQs, picnics, and more!

Introduction:

Potato salad is a classic, and Classic Creamy Potato Salad is the ultimate version of this beloved dish. Made with tender boiled potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and a rich, creamy dressing, this potato salad is perfect for any gathering. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side for BBQs, picnics, or holiday meals.

This recipe is easy to make, simple to customize, and always a crowd favorite. Whether you like it tangy, creamy, or with a bit of crunch, this classic recipe will be sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional for a tangy flavor)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (yellow or red onion)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for garnish, optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

1. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Be careful not to overcook them—they should be firm enough to hold their shape in the salad.
2. Drain the potatoes in a colander and rinse them with cold water to cool them down quickly. Let them sit for a few minutes to drain completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Hard-Boiled Eggs

1. While the potatoes are cooking, hard-boil the eggs. Place the eggs in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 9-10 minutes.
2. After cooking, remove the eggs from the water and place them in a bowl of ice water to cool. Once cooled, peel the eggs and chop them into small pieces.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and creamy.
2. Season the dressing with salt and black pepper to taste. You can adjust the tanginess with more mustard or vinegar, depending on your preference.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

1. Once the potatoes have cooled, add them to the bowl with the dressing.
2. Add the chopped eggs, onion, and celery, then gently fold everything together until the potatoes are well-coated with the creamy dressing.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the potato salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Before serving, garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and a little fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Creamy Potato Salad:

• Rich and Creamy: The creamy mayonnaise-based dressing is perfectly balanced with tangy mustard and vinegar, making it rich yet refreshing.
• Customizable: Add extra ingredients like pickles, bacon, or herbs to make it your own. You can even switch up the mustard or vinegar for different flavor profiles.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy BBQs or picnics.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Potato salad is a classic side dish, and this version will be loved by all your guests, whether it’s for a family meal or a large gathering.

Additional Tips and Variations:

• Bacon Addition: For added flavor, crisp up some bacon and crumble it into the salad for a smoky crunch.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley are a great addition for extra freshness and flavor.
• Pickles: Add chopped pickles or pickle relish to the salad for a tangy and crunchy twist.
• Vegan Version: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative and skip the eggs.
• Spicy Kick: For a little heat, add sriracha or hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy version of potato salad.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 5g
• Carbs: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

(Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

Conclusion:

This Classic Creamy Potato Salad is the perfect addition to any meal or event. It’s easy to make, customizable, and always a hit with guests. With tender potatoes, creamy dressing, and a little crunch from onions and celery, it’s a side dish everyone will love.

Make it ahead of time, refrigerate, and serve it chilled for a refreshing treat at your next gathering. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ, picnic, or holiday dinner, this potato salad will always be a crowd favorite!