This Easy Southern-Style Potato Salad is creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor. With ingredients like potatoes, mayo, mustard, and a touch of celery, it’s a crowd-pleaser for every picnic!
I love how simple it is to make—just boil the potatoes, mix everything together, and chill. It’s the perfect side dish to go with burgers or fried chicken, and it always gets devoured!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These potatoes give a fluffy texture that’s just right for potato salad. If you can’t find them, Yukon Golds work well too as they hold their shape after boiling.
Mayonnaise: Classic mayo gives a creamy base. For a lighter version, you could substitute half with Greek yogurt, which also adds protein.
Yellow Mustard: This adds a tangy flavor. If you want something a bit different, try Dijon mustard for a zesty kick.
Sweet Pickle Relish: Adds sweetness and crunch. If needed, you can use chopped pickles or even dill relish for a more tart flavor.
Celery and Onion: Both bring crunch and freshness. If you’re not a fan of onions, green onions are a milder alternative.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Texture for My Potato Salad?
Getting the potatoes just right is key to a great potato salad. Here’s how you can ensure they’re cooked perfectly:
- Start the potatoes in cold water. This helps them cook evenly.
- Cook them until just fork-tender—about 10-12 minutes. You don’t want them too soft or mushy.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly before mixing. This keeps them from breaking apart.
Mix gently when combining the ingredients. The goal is to coat the potatoes, not mash them! Enjoy your delicious Southern-style potato salad with friends and family!
Easy Southern-Style Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- Paprika, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
To prepare this delicious potato salad, you’ll need about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. Additionally, allow at least 2 hours for chilling in the refrigerator so the flavors can meld beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by placing the peeled and chunked potatoes into a large pot. Cover them with cold water and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook the potatoes for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender but still firm. You don’t want them mushy!
Once cooked, drain the potatoes and transfer them to a large bowl. Allow them to cool slightly while you prepare the eggs.
2. Cook the Eggs:
In a separate saucepan, add the eggs and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then cover the pan, turn off the heat, and let the eggs sit for 12 minutes. After that, drain the hot water and rinse the eggs under cold water to cool them down. Peel and finely chop 3 of the eggs, saving one to slice for garnish.
3. Mix Ingredients:
Now, add the chopped eggs to the bowl with the potatoes. Pour in the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and sweet pickle relish, then add the finely chopped celery and onion. Stir gently so the potatoes get evenly coated without mashing them.
4. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper, adjusting according to your taste. Mix lightly to combine.
5. Serve It Up:
Transfer the potato salad to a serving bowl and give it a nice final touch. Sprinkle paprika over the top for color and flavor. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley and the sliced egg for a lovely presentation!
6. Chill:
Finally, refrigerate the potato salad for at least 2 hours before serving to allow all those lovely flavors to meld together.
This classic Southern potato salad is creamy, tangy, and the perfect addition to any summertime gathering! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Southern-Style Potato Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While russet potatoes are recommended for their fluffy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes, which hold their shape well and have a buttery flavor.
Can I Make This Potato Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or a creamy plant-based yogurt. You can skip the eggs or use a plant-based egg substitute for similar texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Potato Salad?
Leftover potato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again!
Can I Add Other Ingredients for Extra Flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your potato salad with additions like diced bell peppers, green onions, bacon bits, or hard-boiled eggs for extra flavor and texture. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly!
