If you’re searching for a dish that combines comfort and simplicity with a tangy twist, this Classic Potato Salad Recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite. Packed with tender baby potatoes, crunchy celery, and a creamy, flavorful dressing made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a touch of buttermilk, this salad is the perfect companion for any gathering. It’s easy to make, vibrant in texture, and every bite bursts with the nostalgic flavors that make classic potato salad such a beloved staple.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Classic Potato Salad Recipe are straightforward but essential to creating the perfect balance of creaminess, crunch, and zest. Each item plays a critical role—from the baby potatoes that provide that soft, buttery base to the dill pickles that add bursts of acidity and brightness.
- 2 pounds baby potatoes: Choose waxy potatoes for the best texture, as they hold their shape after boiling.
- ½ cup chopped celery: Adds refreshing crunch and a subtle earthiness.
- ⅓ cup chopped dill pickles or relish: Brings a tangy, slightly sour note that wakes up the flavors.
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion (red or yellow): Provides a mild sharpness and extra bite.
- 5 tablespoons mayonnaise: Forms the creamy foundation that holds everything together beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk (or natural yogurt): Adds slight tartness and lightens the dressing’s richness.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Infuses a gentle, sophisticated kick of flavor.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance all the ingredients.
How to Make Classic Potato Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Begin by boiling the baby potatoes in salted water for about 7 to 8 minutes or until they are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. This cooking time ensures that the potatoes remain firm yet soft enough to soak up the flavors of the dressing. Once done, drain them carefully and let them cool slightly, then cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and eating.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the potatoes cool, get the dressing ready. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, Dijon mustard, a splash of vinegar (if you want a touch of extra tang), salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until you have a smooth, creamy dressing that perfectly balances tang, richness, and a little sharpness.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
In a large bowl, gently toss the cooled potato pieces with the chopped celery, dill pickles or relish, finely chopped onion, and if you like, a bit of fresh herb such as parsley or dill for added fragrance. Pour your freshly made dressing over the bowl and carefully fold everything together with a spatula to ensure every potato piece is generously coated without breaking them.
Step 4: Chill and Let Flavors Meld
Pop the potato salad into the refrigerator and chill it for at least a few hours, ideally overnight. This resting period allows the ingredients to marry beautifully, blending the creamy dressing with the savory crunch and tartness for an unforgettable flavor combination well worth the wait.
How to Serve Classic Potato Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped chives, parsley, or dill on top adds a burst of color and fresh aroma that elevates this classic potato salad recipe from simple to special. For a bit of extra texture, consider adding a few crunchy radish slices or a dusting of paprika for a subtle smoky touch.
Side Dishes
This potato salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It’s a stellar match for grilled meats like BBQ chicken, juicy burgers, or sausages, and it complements seafood superbly, especially when you’re aiming for a light, summer meal. You can also serve it alongside fresh green salads or roasted vegetables for a balanced feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve this classic potato salad in individual glass jars for a charming picnic or buffet option. Alternatively, layer it in a trifle dish with alternating layers of paprika and fresh herbs to create a visual feast that invites people to dig right in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This classic potato salad recipe keeps very well in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. Before serving leftovers, give it a gentle stir to refresh the texture and redistribute the dressing evenly.
Freezing
Freezing potato salad is generally not recommended because mayonnaise-based dressings can separate and turn watery. For best results, enjoy this recipe fresh or within a few days refrigerated.
Reheating
This dish is best served chilled or at room temperature. If it feels too cold, allow it to sit out for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can disrupt the creamy texture and flavor balance.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, you can use regular potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just cut them into uniform chunks and adjust boiling time accordingly, making sure they stay firm enough to hold their shape in the salad.
Is there a way to make this Classic Potato Salad Recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free or vegan mayonnaise, and use plant-based yogurt instead of buttermilk to keep it creamy and delicious without animal products.
How long should I chill the potato salad before serving?
Ideally, chill the salad for at least 2 to 4 hours or overnight. This resting time helps the flavors fully develop and makes the salad taste even better.
Can I add boiled eggs to this recipe?
Yes, adding chopped boiled eggs is a classic variation that adds richness and extra protein. Mix them in gently in step 3 for a traditional twist.
What’s the best way to make the potatoes stay firm?
Use waxy potatoes and avoid overcooking. Cooking just until tender with a fork ensures they won’t turn mushy when mixed with the creamy dressing.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Potato Salad Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that never goes out of style. It’s wonderfully simple but packed with flavors that can brighten any meal or gathering. Whether you’re making it for a casual family lunch or a big BBQ party, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. So go ahead, try it out, and enjoy every creamy, tangy bite!
Print
Classic Potato Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Classic Potato Salad is a creamy, tangy side dish featuring tender baby potatoes mixed with crunchy celery, dill pickles, and onion, all brought together with a flavorful mayonnaise and mustard dressing. Perfectly chilled, it makes a refreshing accompaniment for any meal or picnic.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds baby potatoes
Vegetables & Herbs
- ½ cup chopped celery
- ⅓ cup chopped dill pickles or relish
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion (red or yellow)
Dressing
- 5 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk (or natural yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil Potatoes: Boil the baby potatoes in salted water for 7–8 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and cool slightly before cutting into pieces to ensure they hold their shape and have the perfect texture.
- Prepare Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, buttermilk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create a smooth, tangy dressing that complements the potatoes and vegetables.
- Mix Salad: In a large bowl, gently mix the cooled, cut potatoes with chopped celery, dill pickles, and onion. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and fold gently to coat everything evenly without mashing the potatoes.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the potato salad for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld and develop fully, resulting in a refreshing and delicious dish ready to serve.
Notes
- Use baby potatoes for quicker cooking and better texture retention.
- Buttermilk can be substituted with natural yogurt for a similar tangy flavor.
- Chilling the salad enhances the flavor and firms up the dressing.
- This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste.
