Best Easy Potato Salad

Name: Best Easy Potato Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds russet potatoes; 2 cups mayonnaise; 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 ½ teaspoons salt; 2 chopped green onions; 1 diced celery stalk; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar

Published: May 29, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
Versatile Dish: Pair it with grilled meats or serve it at gatherings. It’s perfect for any occasion!
Creamy & Flavorful: The combination of mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar creates a deliciously creamy dressing that enhances the potatoes.
Gluten-Free Option: Made with simple ingredients, this potato salad is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Easily Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients like hard-boiled eggs or pickles for an extra twist.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making the Best Easy Potato Salad, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large stock pot
Colander
Mixing bowl
Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Large stock pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes evenly and thoroughly.
Colander: Helps drain the potatoes efficiently after boiling, ensuring they cool properly before mixing.

Ingredients

Classic American style potato salad with mayonnaise, celery, and green onions.

For the Salad

2 pounds russet potatoes
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (divided)
1 1/2 teaspoon salt (divided)
2 cups mayonnaise
2 chopped green onions
1 celery stalk (diced)
1 tablespoon dijon mustard
1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Best Easy Potato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and dice the potatoes into 1-inch chunks. This size ensures they cook evenly.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Fill a large stock pot with cold water. Add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and diced potatoes to the water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Check for Doneness

Boil the potatoes until soft; they should be easily pierced by a fork. This usually takes about 15–20 minutes.

Step 4: Drain and Cool

Once cooked, drain the potatoes using a colander. Let them cool down while you prepare the dressing.

Step 5: Mix the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of salt, mayonnaise, chopped green onions, diced celery, dijon mustard, and optional sugar. Stir until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Potatoes and Dressing

When the potatoes are cool enough to handle, add them to the dressing mixture. Toss everything together gently until all potatoes are coated evenly.

Step 7: Serve or Chill

You can serve your Best Easy Potato Salad immediately or refrigerate it for an hour to enhance flavors further.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Dish out your creamy potato salad as a side at your next barbecue or family meal!

How to Serve Best Easy Potato Salad

Best Easy Potato Salad is a versatile dish that can complement various meals. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or a casual gathering, it pairs well with many foods.

At a Cookout

Classic Hot Dogs: Serve alongside grilled hot dogs for a traditional summer meal.
Hamburgers: The creamy texture of the salad complements juicy hamburgers perfectly.
Grilled Veggies: Pair with an assortment of grilled vegetables for a fresh, colorful plate.

As a Side Dish

Fried Chicken: The cool potato salad balances the warmth of crispy fried chicken.
Fish Tacos: A refreshing side to offset spicy fish tacos, enhancing your meal experience.
BBQ Ribs: Enjoy with smoky BBQ ribs for a satisfying and hearty feast.

For Picnics

Sandwiches: Ideal alongside any sandwich, adding creaminess to your meal.
Chips and Dips: Offer as part of a platter with chips and dips for variety.

How to Perfect Best Easy Potato Salad

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your potato salad, consider these simple tips.

Boldly Season the Water: Adding salt to the boiling water helps season the potatoes evenly.
Boldly Chill Before Mixing: Allow the potatoes to cool completely before mixing with the dressing for better absorption.
Boldly Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green onions and celery enhance the salad’s crunch and flavor profile.
Boldly Adjust Consistency: If too thick, thin the dressing with a little milk or extra vinegar for desired creaminess.
Boldly Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasoning according to your preference before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Best Easy Potato Salad

This potato salad serves as a great complement to many dishes. Here are some excellent side options that will enhance your meal.

Baked Beans: Sweet and savory beans provide a hearty contrast to the creamy potato salad.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness, perfect for balancing flavors.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness, making it an excellent summer pairing.
Deviled Eggs: Creamy deviled eggs are delightful finger food that pairs well with potato salad.
Macaroni Salad: Another classic side that offers different flavors while maintaining that comforting vibe.
Grilled Sausages: Juicy sausages are great for BBQs; they pair nicely with the chilled potato salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Best Easy Potato Salad can be a breeze, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Overcooking the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes become mushy and lose texture. Boil them just until fork-tender.
Skipping the vinegar: Not adding apple cider vinegar can make your salad taste flat. It adds necessary tanginess, so include it in both cooking and dressing.
Not chilling before serving: Serving immediately can result in a warm salad that lacks flavor depth. Chill it in the refrigerator to let flavors meld.
Using low-quality mayonnaise: The mayonnaise can make or break the flavor. Use a good quality mayo for the best taste.
Ignoring seasoning: Failing to properly season your potato salad can lead to blandness. Taste and adjust salt as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Best consumed within 3–5 days for optimal flavor.

Freezing Best Easy Potato Salad

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of potatoes may not hold up well.
If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Best Easy Potato Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway.
Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat in a pan while stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this the Best Easy Potato Salad?

This potato salad combines creamy mayonnaise with tangy vinegar and crunchy vegetables, making it flavorful and satisfying without complicated steps.

Can I customize the Best Easy Potato Salad recipe?

Yes! You can add ingredients like diced pickles, hard-boiled eggs, or even bacon for added flavor and texture.

How long does the Best Easy Potato Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts about 3–5 days before losing its freshness.

Is this potato salad gluten-free?

Yes! The ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

The Best Easy Potato Salad is a classic dish that’s perfect for any gathering or BBQ. Its creamy texture combined with fresh ingredients makes it enjoyable for everyone. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins or serve it alongside grilled meats. This versatile side dish is sure to be a hit at your next cookout!

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