SIMPLE SOUTHERN POTATO SALAD

There’s something deeply comforting about the classic Southern potato salad. It’s a dish that evokes memories of family gatherings, summer picnics, and backyard barbecues. This simple Southern potato salad is creamy and flavorful, featuring a blend of mayonnaise, a touch of mustard, and the sweetness of pickles or relish. It’s incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time, making it a perfect addition to any potluck or family meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This potato salad is a staple for any occasion, offering a delightful balance of creamy and tangy flavors. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up, and you can customize it to suit your taste. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or dill pickles, this recipe can be adjusted to match your preferences. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with any main course.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Strainer
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 3 pounds Russet, Yukon gold, or red potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• ¼ cup sweet pickles, chopped, or sweet relish
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 5 hard-boiled eggs, shelled and diced
• 4 green onions, finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Add the potatoes to a large pot and cover with cold water. Set over high heat and cook until fork tender. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking and becoming mushy.
2. Drain the potatoes in a strainer and let them cool while you prepare the other salad ingredients.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, yellow mustard, chopped pickles, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder. Whisk together until smooth.
4. Add the cooled potatoes to the mixing bowl along with the diced hard-boiled eggs, green onions, and celery. Stir gently to combine.
5. Taste and season with kosher salt and black pepper according to your preference.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the potatoes are cooked just right—fork tender but not mushy.
• Let the potatoes cool completely before mixing them with the other ingredients to avoid a watery salad.

Additional Tips and Variations

• This salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Swap out sweet pickles for dill pickles for a tangier taste.
• If you prefer a stronger flavor, consider adding sweet white onion instead of green onions.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 250 | Protein: 6g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use other types of potatoes? Yes, Russet, Yukon gold, or red potatoes work best, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.

How long can I store this potato salad? It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This simple Southern potato salad is a must-try for anyone seeking a classic, comforting dish. It’s perfect for gatherings and easy to make ahead of time. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience with us! We’d love to hear how it turns out or any tweaks you make to the recipe.