Simple Southern Potato Salad Recipe
Prep Time: 24 hours
Cook Time: 1 hour (including boiling potatoes)
Total Time: 24 hours
This Simple Southern Potato Salad is an all-time family favorite, passed down from my mom. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, enjoying a hearty BBQ meal, or simply craving a nostalgic dish that brings everyone together. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility – you can adjust the quantity to suit your needs, making as little or as much as required. With its creamy, tangy, and satisfying flavors, this potato salad is sure to be a hit every time.
Recipe Category
- Low Protein
- Easy
- Beginner Cook
- Inexpensive
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | 8-9 medium |
| Pickles (diced) | 1 cup |
| Onions (finely chopped) | 2 medium |
| Hard-boiled eggs | 5 large |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Mayonnaise | 2 cups |
| Mustard (yellow or Dijon) | 3-4 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 462.9 kcal |
| Fat Content | 18.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.2 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 105.5 mg |
| Sodium Content | 560 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 65.8 g |
| Fiber Content | 7.2 g |
| Sugar Content | 6.8 g |
| Protein Content | 10.1 g |
Instructions
-
Prep the Potatoes
Begin by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into uniform cubes. This ensures that they cook evenly. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Allow the potatoes to cook until tender when pierced with a fork, which should take about 20-25 minutes. Drain the potatoes well, ensuring no excess water remains. -
Prepare the Vegetables and Eggs
While the potatoes are cooking, chop the pickles, onions, and hard-boiled eggs into small pieces. You can adjust the quantity of pickles and onions according to your personal preference for tanginess and crunch. -
Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained potatoes with the diced pickles, onions, and chopped hard-boiled eggs. Stir gently to mix, being careful not to break up the potatoes too much. -
Add the Dressing
Pour the mayonnaise into the mixture and stir until the potatoes are coated to your desired consistency. The creaminess of the mayo is key to achieving that luscious, comforting texture. If you prefer a tangier note, add the mustard at this stage and stir to combine. -
Season to Taste
Taste the potato salad and season with salt and pepper. Adjust to your preference – some might prefer a little more salt or a dash of extra pepper for some added heat. -
Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, let the potato salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving, though it can be made a day ahead. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the salad even more delicious. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Potato Salad
- Potato Selection: Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamy texture. These potatoes hold their shape well when boiled, making them ideal for potato salad.
- Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the amount of mayonnaise or mustard based on your texture and flavor preference. Some like it extra creamy, while others enjoy a sharper mustard kick.
- Make it Ahead: This potato salad keeps well for several days in the fridge, so feel free to make it ahead of time and store it for your next gathering or family meal.
- Add-Ins: For an extra flavor boost, try adding chopped celery, bell peppers, or fresh herbs like dill. These additions can bring a crunchy, refreshing bite that complements the creamy salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Simple Southern Potato Salad is a perfect side dish for BBQs, picnics, and cookouts. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, ribs, fried chicken, or a vegetarian main dish. It’s also a great addition to holiday feasts and family gatherings, where it will surely be a crowd favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The combination of tender potatoes, crunchy pickles, creamy mayo, and tangy mustard makes this potato salad a comforting and satisfying dish. It’s not only simple to prepare but also endlessly customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this recipe will become a go-to for any occasion, large or small.
Enjoy this family recipe that’s been passed down with love, and make it your own. Happy cooking, and I hope this Simple Southern Potato Salad brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine!
