Classic Southern Potato Salad Recipe: A Creamy and Flavorful Side Dish
When it comes to classic Southern comfort food, potato salad is a dish that never fails to make an impression. This Southern-style potato salad is the epitome of creamy, tangy, and flavorful goodness. With its combination of tender potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and a creamy dressing, it’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. If you’re craving a taste of the South, this recipe will deliver every time.
Ingredients for Classic Southern Potato Salad
To make this mouthwatering Southern potato salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 lbs (1.4 kg) russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed – These potatoes offer the perfect balance of fluffiness and creaminess, making them ideal for potato salad.
- 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped – The eggs add richness and texture, creating that signature Southern potato salad taste.
- 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably Duke’s for an authentic Southern flavor) – A rich and creamy base for the dressing.
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard – Adds a tangy flavor that balances the creaminess of the mayo.
- 1/3 cup dill pickle relish – A sweet-and-sour addition that’s essential for a tangy bite.
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion – For a bit of sharpness and color.
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery – Provides a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the mayo.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (plus extra for garnish) – Adds a mild, smoky flavor and a pop of color.
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) – Enhances all the flavors in the salad.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – For seasoning and a slight kick.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar – Adds acidity to balance the creaminess and gives the salad a refreshing tang.
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional) – For a touch of sweetness that complements the tangy ingredients.
Instructions for Making Classic Southern Potato Salad
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Start by placing the cubed potatoes into a large pot. Fill the pot with water until the potatoes are fully covered. Add a pinch of salt to the water, and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as they should hold their shape when mixed with the dressing.
Once cooked, drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the potatoes are cooling, it’s time to prepare the dressing. In a large bowl, combine:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1/3 cup dill pickle relish
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar (if you prefer a slightly sweeter potato salad)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Stir the ingredients together until the dressing is smooth and well-combined. The mustard and pickle relish will provide that signature tang, while the mayo creates a creamy, luscious base.
Step 3: Mix the Salad
Once the potatoes have cooled slightly, transfer them to the bowl with the prepared dressing. Gently toss the potatoes with the dressing, ensuring that the potatoes are well-coated. Be careful not to mash the potatoes. You want the salad to have a bit of texture, so leave some of the chunks intact for a rustic feel.
Next, fold in the chopped hard-boiled eggs, diced red onion, and diced celery. These ingredients not only add flavor but also contribute to the overall texture and crunchiness of the salad. Continue to gently mix everything until the salad is well distributed.
Step 4: Chill the Salad
For the best flavor, cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together and ensures a creamy and cohesive texture.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Before serving, sprinkle a bit of paprika over the top for garnish and extra color. Serve chilled alongside your favorite Southern dishes like fried chicken, barbecue ribs, or grilled meats. This potato salad is also great with sandwiches or as a side for a picnic.
Tips for Success
- Eggs: If you love extra richness, feel free to add an extra egg or two. It enhances the creamy texture and flavor.
- Texture: For a more rustic texture, leave a few chunks of potato in the salad. If you prefer a smoother salad, you can mash some of the potatoes for extra creaminess.
- Pickles: If you prefer a sweeter potato salad, you can swap the dill relish for sweet pickle relish.
- Customize: You can also customize the potato salad by adding other ingredients like chopped pickles, green onions, or bell peppers for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Why This Southern Potato Salad is a Crowd-Pleaser
1. Perfect Balance of Flavors
This Southern potato salad strikes the perfect balance between creamy, tangy, and sweet. The richness of the mayonnaise is cut by the acidity of the mustard and vinegar, while the pickle relish and eggs add texture and flavor.
2. Easy to Make
This recipe is simple and straightforward, with minimal prep and cooking time. The hardest part is waiting for the salad to chill in the fridge!
3. Great for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, going to a family reunion, or just having a weeknight dinner, this classic Southern potato salad is the perfect side dish. It pairs well with virtually everything, from fried chicken to grilled steaks, and can be made in advance, so it’s perfect for gatherings.
4. A Recipe That Keeps Getting Better
Like most potato salads, this one only gets better the longer it sits. The flavors meld and deepen as the salad chills, making it a great make-ahead dish.
Conclusion
This Classic Southern Potato Salad is a timeless favorite that is sure to impress at any gathering. With its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and hearty ingredients, it’s the ultimate side dish for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re enjoying it with fried chicken or serving it at your next picnic, this potato salad will quickly become a crowd favorite.
Try this recipe today and enjoy the flavors of the South in the comfort of your own home!
Bon Appétit! 🥔✨