Classic Potato Salad - Perfect for BBQs and Picnics
Potato salad is a classic and comforting dish that brings together tender potatoes, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal and a staple at picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. This recipe is simple yet flavorful, with just the right balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this potato salad will be a hit with everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 6 medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Paprika for garnish
Directions
Prepare the Potatoes. Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into bite-sized cubes. Place the cubes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart.
Drain and Cool. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and let them cool completely. This step is crucial to prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy when mixed with the dressing.
Prepare the Dressing. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and sweet pickle relish. Mix well to create a smooth, creamy dressing.
Add Vegetables and Eggs. To the dressing, add the chopped red onion, celery, and hard-boiled eggs. Stir until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
Combine Potatoes and Dressing. Gently fold the cooled potatoes into the dressing mixture. Be careful not to mash the potatoes. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
Season and Garnish. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the potato salad to a serving bowl and sprinkle with chopped parsley and a light dusting of paprika for a pop of color.
Chill Before Serving. For the best flavor, cover the potato salad and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Recipe tips
Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they hold their shape well after cooking. If you prefer a creamier texture, try using Russet potatoes. Make sure the potatoes are completely cooled before mixing with the dressing to avoid a mushy texture. For extra crunch, you can add chopped pickles or a handful of diced bell peppers. Potato salad tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
If you love a classic BLT sandwich, you’re going to enjoy this BLT Salad. It’s everything you love about bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes, but in a fresh, flavorful salad form. Crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, crunchy lettuce, and creamy avocado (optional) are tossed together with a tangy homemade dressing. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner. This salad is simple, fresh, and packed with flavor—great for anyone who loves homemade food.
This fresh and flavorful Brussels Sprout Salad is a delicious, nutrient-packed way to enjoy these little green powerhouses. Thinly sliced Brussels sprouts are tossed with crunchy nuts, sweet dried cranberries, tangy apples, and a light, lemony dressing. This salad pairs well with a variety of main courses or can be enjoyed on its own for a light meal. Perfect for fall or winter, this salad brings brightness and crunch to any table, especially around holiday gatherings.
This Lentil Salad is a vibrant, hearty dish perfect for a light meal or side. Packed with nutritious lentils, fresh vegetables, and a zesty vinaigrette, it’s flavorful and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a refreshing dinner option, this lentil salad will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
This fresh Avocado and Tomato Salad is a vibrant, quick-to-make dish that’s perfect for any meal. With ripe tomatoes, creamy avocado, and a splash of lemon for zest, this salad is both satisfying and incredibly healthy. The colors and flavors are sure to brighten up your table, making it ideal for a light lunch, snack, or a refreshing side at dinner.
Looking for a light, refreshing dish that’s packed with healthy fats, fresh veggies, and a burst of flavor? This avocado salad is perfect for you! It's quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and has a creamy, tangy dressing that pairs perfectly with the natural richness of the avocado. This is your go-to salad for a healthy lunch or as a side dish for dinner.
This Roasted Vegetable Salad is a delightful medley of vibrant, oven-roasted veggies tossed with a light vinaigrette. It's hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor. The natural sweetness of the roasted vegetables, combined with the crunch of fresh greens and a zesty dressing, makes it the perfect side dish or light meal. Whether you serve it warm or at room temperature, this salad is sure to impress with its simplicity and rich, roasted flavors.
Shrimp salad is a refreshing and delicious dish, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The tender shrimp, combined with fresh vegetables and a tangy lemon dressing, makes for a vibrant and healthy meal. You can customize the salad with your favorite greens and add-ons like avocado or cherry tomatoes. This recipe is quick to make, perfect for busy days, and offers a balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a great option for those focusing on nutritious meals.
If you're craving a fresh and flavorful salad that's packed with Italian charm, this Antipasto Salad is your go-to recipe. It’s an effortless blend of savory meats, creamy cheeses, crisp vegetables, and tangy olives, all brought together with a simple vinaigrette. Whether you're serving it as a starter or a light meal, this salad delivers a satisfying bite in every forkful. Perfect for those who love to prepare their own food, this salad is easy to customize and makes a great addition to any meal.
This refreshing cucumber salad is light, crisp, and perfect for a quick, healthy side dish. With the right balance of tangy and sweet, it's ideal for any meal or occasion. The combination of thinly sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a simple vinaigrette dressing creates a dish that's both flavorful and satisfying. Great for summer picnics, barbecues, or a simple weekday lunch, this cucumber salad is as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
This refreshing Pear Salad is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, combining juicy pears, crunchy nuts, creamy cheese, and fresh greens. The light honey and lemon dressing adds a delicate touch of sweetness that complements the salad beautifully. It's an easy-to-make dish that works wonderfully as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, and it's great for impressing guests with its elegance and simplicity.
This vibrant and refreshing Fruit Salad is a delightful blend of seasonal fruits, perfect for any time of day. The natural sweetness of ripe fruits, combined with a light citrus dressing, makes this salad not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, or a light dessert, this fruit salad is a simple yet satisfying choice. The recipe is versatile and can be customized with your favorite fruits or whatever is in season, making it a go-to dish for any occasion.
A Greek Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Bursting with flavors from ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese, this salad is both satisfying and light. It's perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish at dinner, or a nutritious snack. The addition of Kalamata olives and a simple oregano-infused olive oil dressing gives this salad its authentic Greek taste. This recipe is straightforward, using fresh ingredients to create a colorful and flavorful dish that you'll want to make again and again.
These crispy homemade onion rings are a delightfully crunchy snack or side dish that’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re serving them with a burger, enjoying them as a snack, or sharing them at a gathering, these onion rings are sure to be a hit. With a light, golden batter coating each ring, they have the perfect crunch on the outside and a sweet, tender onion on the inside. They’re simple enough for a quick treat but tasty enough to impress your guests.
Turkey gravy is a must-have for any holiday feast, especially on Thanksgiving. Rich, savory, and smooth, it’s the perfect finishing touch for your roast turkey and mashed potatoes. This easy homemade gravy uses drippings from the turkey and a few simple ingredients to create a flavorful sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you step by step to creating a delicious turkey gravy that enhances your holiday meal.
Loaded Tater Tots are a delicious, indulgent snack or side dish that combines crispy tots with all the best toppings like melted cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions. This recipe is perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a casual movie night at home. It's quick, easy to make, and offers a great balance of savory flavors and crispy textures that everyone will love!
A Mint Julep is a classic cocktail that is refreshing and perfect for hot days. Traditionally associated with the Kentucky Derby, this cocktail combines fresh mint, bourbon, simple syrup, and crushed ice for a cool and flavorful drink. Its simplicity allows the mint and bourbon to shine, making it both elegant and easy to prepare at home. Whether you're a seasoned bartender or a beginner, you'll find this recipe easy to follow and even easier to enjoy.
S’mores are the perfect campfire treat! This classic dessert combines toasted marshmallows, melted chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers for a deliciously gooey and sweet treat. Whether you're roasting marshmallows by the fire or making them in the oven, these are sure to be a hit for any outdoor (or indoor!) gathering. Simple to make, S’mores bring nostalgia and flavor in every bite.
If you're craving a quick, bold snack with a kick, these spicy peanuts are perfect for you! Coated with a blend of spices and lightly roasted, they deliver just the right amount of heat and crunch. This recipe is simple to prepare, ideal for parties, movie nights, or as a flavorful snack throughout the day. You can adjust the spice level to your taste and experiment with different seasoning combinations. Get ready for a snack that's both delicious and addictive!
This Crockpot Gravy is a delicious, rich, and savory sauce that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted meats, or veggies. Making gravy in the crockpot is simple and allows you to set it and forget it until it’s time to serve. The slow cooking enhances the flavors and creates a deep, hearty gravy that’s perfect for holidays or comforting family dinners.
Light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet, these homemade glazed donuts are a true treat. With a soft, airy texture and a melt-in-your-mouth vanilla glaze, they’re ideal for breakfast or an indulgent snack. This recipe is simple enough to make at home, with a few key techniques to ensure the best results. Perfectly fried and coated in a classic sugar glaze, these donuts will become your go-to homemade treat.
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a comforting and satisfying dish made with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling of seasoned ground meat, rice, and spices. This classic dish is simmered in a savory tomato sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s a perfect hearty meal for family dinners, especially on cool nights. Let’s get started on making this crowd-pleaser!
Cream of Mushroom Soup is a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly day. Made with fresh mushrooms, garlic, and herbs, this rich and creamy soup is both flavorful and satisfying. It's an ideal choice for a light lunch or dinner starter, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. With a velvety texture and earthy mushroom flavor, this homemade soup beats any canned version by miles. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even as a base for casseroles.
KFC-style gravy is a rich, savory sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over mashed potatoes, chicken, or even biscuits. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate that iconic flavor at home. This recipe is quick and easy, giving you smooth, flavorful gravy just like your favorite fast-food restaurant. Get ready to elevate your meals with this delicious gravy!
These delightful Peach Hand Pies are the perfect treat for a sweet snack or dessert. Made with a buttery, flaky pie crust and filled with juicy, spiced peaches, they are easy to make and perfect for any time of year, especially summer. You can serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoy them as a grab-and-go snack. The individual servings also make them ideal for picnics or parties.
This classic brown gravy is a rich and flavorful addition to any meal. It's made from pan drippings, flour, and broth, creating a smooth and savory sauce that pairs perfectly with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or vegetables. Whether you're preparing a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this brown gravy brings depth and comfort to every dish.
The French 75 is a classic, refreshing cocktail with a delightful combination of gin, lemon juice, and sparkling wine. This bubbly drink is light, citrusy, and ideal for celebrations or a classy evening treat. Simple yet elegant, the French 75 blends sweet, sour, and sparkling notes for a perfect balance.
Potato Leek Soup is a comforting, creamy dish perfect for chilly days or when you crave something warm and soothing. The combination of tender potatoes and mild leeks creates a velvety texture, while a hint of garlic and fresh herbs enhances the flavor. This soup is easy to prepare and makes for a satisfying meal, whether you're serving it as a starter or the main course.
This rich and moist chocolate cake is the ultimate indulgence for any chocolate lover. Made with simple ingredients, it's a classic recipe that never fails to impress. The cake has a tender crumb and a deep chocolate flavor, perfectly paired with a smooth chocolate frosting or your choice of filling. Whether for a celebration or a cozy night in, this chocolate cake is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Kouign-Amann is a decadent, buttery, and caramelized pastry from the Brittany region of France. It has layers of flaky, laminated dough, similar to croissant dough, but with a generous amount of sugar that creates a crispy, golden crust. The combination of rich butter and caramelized sugar makes this pastry both crunchy and soft, with a sweet, irresistible flavor. While it requires time and patience, the reward is well worth it for those who want to bake their own gourmet pastry at home.
The Moscow Mule is a refreshing cocktail with a delightful zing, made from vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. It’s known for its spicy kick and is traditionally served in a copper mug to keep it icy cold. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply unwinding after a long day, this cocktail offers a perfect balance of tangy lime and spicy ginger, making it a crowd favorite. Easy to prepare, this drink is a classic choice for any occasion.
These classic Swedish meatballs are a comfort food favorite, tender and juicy with a rich, creamy gravy. Perfect for any family meal, this recipe features seasoned beef and pork meatballs in a flavorful sauce. Enjoy them with mashed potatoes, lingonberry jam, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an authentic touch. A true taste of Sweden that’s easy to recreate at home!
The Old Fashioned is a timeless classic cocktail that’s simple, yet elegant. Made with just a few ingredients, this drink is rich, smooth, and packs a punch of whiskey flavor balanced by a touch of sweetness and bitterness. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or entertaining guests, the Old Fashioned is the perfect drink for any occasion. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you can recreate this sophisticated cocktail in just a few minutes.