The Classic Southern Potato Salad is a creamy, tangy, and comforting dish that’s a staple at family gatherings, picnics, and barbecues across the South.
This recipe combines tender potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and a flavorful dressing to create a side dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Its balance of mayonnaise, mustard, and dill pickle relish delivers a perfect blend of creaminess and tanginess that defines Southern cuisine.
Ingredients
3 lbs (1.4 kg) russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
1 cup mayonnaise (use Duke’s for authentic Southern 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).
Instructions
Cook the Potatoes:
Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain and let the potatoes cool slightly.
Prepare the Dressing:
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, dill pickle relish, apple cider vinegar, sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until smooth.
Mix the Salad:
Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat.
Fold in the chopped eggs, red onion, and celery. Mix until evenly distributed, but be careful not to mash the potatoes.
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle with a dash of paprika for color. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Variations and Tips for Classic Southern Potato Salad
Variations
Bacon Lovers’ Potato Salad:
Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory twist.
Herb-Infused Potato Salad:
Mix in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives for a vibrant, herbal flavor.
Spicy Potato Salad:
Add a touch of heat with diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Greek Yogurt Swap:
Substitute half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter version.
Loaded Potato Salad:
Incorporate shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and a dollop of sour cream for a loaded baked potato-inspired salad.
Pickle-Free Option:
If you’re not a fan of dill pickle relish, skip it and add a splash of lemon juice or white vinegar for acidity.
Tips for the Best Potato Salad
Flavor the Potatoes While Warm:
Toss the potatoes with a bit of apple cider vinegar or pickle juice while they’re still warm to enhance their flavor.
Chop Ingredients Evenly:
For a consistent texture, dice the potatoes, celery, and onions to a similar size.
Egg Placement:
Mix the eggs gently into the salad to avoid breaking them into small pieces.
Season Generously:
Potatoes absorb seasoning, so taste as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and mustard to your liking.
How to Store Classic Southern Potato Salad
Refrigeration
Short-Term Storage:
Place the potato salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Serving Tip:
If you’re serving it at an outdoor gathering, keep the salad in a cooler or on ice to maintain its freshness.
Freezing
Potato salad is not ideal for freezing due to the separation of mayonnaise and the texture change of potatoes when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Frequently Asked Questions About Classic Southern Potato Salad
1. Can I prepare potato salad in advance?
Yes, potato salad tastes better when made ahead of time. Prepare it the day before serving to let the flavors meld together.
2. What potatoes work best?
Russet potatoes create a creamy salad, while Yukon golds or red potatoes hold their shape better for a chunkier texture.
3. Can I make it healthier?
Swap some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or light mayo. You can also reduce the sugar or skip it entirely.
4. Why is my potato salad watery?
Watery salad can result from under-drained potatoes or excess liquid from added ingredients like onions or pickles. Pat the potatoes and vegetables dry before mixing.
5. Can I leave out the eggs?
Yes, you can skip the eggs if you prefer. Add extra vegetables or other mix-ins like diced bell peppers for more texture.
6. How can I make it vegan?
Use vegan mayonnaise and skip the eggs for a plant-based version.
7. How do I fix bland potato salad?
Enhance the flavor with additional salt, pepper, mustard, or vinegar. A splash of pickle juice or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can also elevate the dish.
With these variations, tips, and answers, you’re fully equipped to create and customize your own perfect version of Classic Southern Potato Salad!
Nutritional Information for Classic Southern Potato Salad
(Approximate values per serving, assuming 8 servings from the recipe provided.)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Sugars: 3 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Potassium: 450 mg
Notes on Nutritional Information:
- Calories may vary slightly depending on the type of mayonnaise and other ingredient brands used. Using a light or vegan mayonnaise will reduce the fat and calorie content.
- Adding extras like bacon, cheese, or additional sugar will increase the calorie count.
- For a lower-sodium version, opt for unsalted potatoes and reduce the added salt.
This nutritional breakdown makes the Classic Southern Potato Salad a hearty and satisfying side dish, perfect for complementing a variety of meals!