Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic dish that brings comfort and joy to every gathering. With its creamy dressing and vibrant vegetables, it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re at a summer barbecue or a holiday feast, this potato salad is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
– 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or red)
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 cup red onion, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 20-25 minutes for the potatoes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1/2 cup) contains about 250 calories, 15g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 4g protein. This is based on one person’s serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by washing the potatoes thoroughly under cold water.
2. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water.
3. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until tender.
5. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
6. While the potatoes cool, prepare the dressing by mixing mayonnaise, mustard, and vinegar in a bowl.
7. Dice the cooled potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
8. In a large bowl, combine the diced potatoes, celery, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
9. Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and gently toss to coat.
10. Season with salt, pepper, and fold in the chopped parsley. Chill before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize your potato salad by substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version. Additionally, feel free to add ingredients like bacon bits, pickles, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Serving and Pairings
Potato salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a side dish at picnics and barbecues. It also complements fried chicken and is a great addition to any summer potluck.
Storage and Reheating
Store the potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served cold and should not be reheated. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the potatoes can make them mushy.
- Not cooling the potatoes before adding the dressing can lead to a runny salad.
- Using too much mayonnaise can overpower the flavors.
- Forget to season properly with salt and pepper.
- Skipping the chilling time can affect the flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Choose waxy potatoes for better texture.
- For added flavor, let the salad sit for a few hours before serving.
- Experiment with different herbs like dill or chives.
- Use a mix of colors in your vegetables for visual appeal.
FAQs
Can I make potato salad ahead of time?
Yes, potato salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
What type of potatoes are best for potato salad?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are ideal as they hold their shape well after cooking and offer a creamy texture.
Is potato salad gluten-free?
Yes, potato salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free ingredients in the dressing.
How long can I keep potato salad in the fridge?
Potato salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I add other vegetables to potato salad?
Absolutely! You can include veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even olives for added crunch and flavor.
What can I serve with potato salad?
Potato salad goes well with grilled meats, sandwiches, and is perfect for summer picnics alongside other salads.
Conclusion
Potato salad is a versatile dish that is sure to impress at any gathering. With its creamy texture and fresh ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make. Customize it to your taste and enjoy this classic dish at your next meal!
Potato Salad
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes Yukon Gold or red
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup celery diced
- 1 cup red onion chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 hard-boiled eggs chopped
Instructions
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold water.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and let cool slightly.
- Mix mayonnaise, mustard, and vinegar in a bowl.
- Dice the cooled potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine diced potatoes, celery, red onion, and cherry tomatoes in a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper, and fold in chopped parsley.
- Chill before serving.
