This creamy and flavorful potato salad is a classic Southern comfort dish. Here’s how to make it, along with variations and tips.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs (1.4 kg) russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise (Duke’s recommended for authentic flavor)
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1/3 cup dill pickle relish
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
Construction (Steps to Prepare):
- Cook the Potatoes
- Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, yellow mustard, dill pickle relish, apple cider vinegar, sugar (if using), paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Combine Ingredients
- Gently fold the potatoes, chopped hard-boiled eggs, red onion, and celery into the dressing.
- Chill
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the potato salad for at least 1–2 hours to let the flavors meld.
- Garnish and Serve
- Before serving, sprinkle with additional paprika for color. Serve chilled.
Variations:
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Tangy Version: Substitute some of the mayonnaise with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Herby Flavor: Stir in chopped fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives.
- Bacon Lover’s: Add crumbled cooked bacon for extra richness.
- Sweet Pickles: Swap dill pickle relish with sweet pickle relish for a sweeter profile.
Tips:
- Use Waxy Potatoes for Texture: Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape better than russets if you prefer firmer chunks.
- Don’t Overcook Potatoes: Overcooking leads to a mushy salad; keep an eye on them while boiling.
- Mix While Warm: Fold the dressing into the warm potatoes for better absorption of flavors.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and sweetness after chilling.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance for maximum flavor.
Enjoy your homemade Southern potato salad! Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or family dinners.