
This classic American potato salad is a delightful addition to any picnic or barbecue. With its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender potatoes, crunchy celery, and tangy mustard creates a perfect balance of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples. However, you might need to pick up celery and mayonnaise if you don’t typically keep them on hand. Celery adds a nice crunch to the salad, while mayonnaise provides the creamy base that ties everything together. Make sure to get fresh celery and a good quality mayonnaise for the best results.
Ingredients for American Potato Salad Recipe
Potatoes: The base of the salad, providing a hearty and starchy component.
Eggs: Adds protein and a rich, creamy texture.
Mayonnaise: The creamy dressing that binds the salad together.
Mustard: Adds a tangy flavor that complements the mayonnaise.
Celery: Provides a crunchy texture and fresh flavor.
Onion: Adds a sharp, savory note to the salad.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the flavor profile.
Technique Tip for Making Potato Salad
When boiling potatoes, start with cold water and bring it to a boil with the potatoes already in the pot. This ensures even cooking and prevents the potatoes from becoming mushy on the outside while remaining undercooked inside.
Suggested Side Dishes
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Imagine the crispiness of grilled asparagus paired with the zesty brightness of lemon. This side dish adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the American Potato Salad.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory honey-glazed carrots bring a delightful caramelized touch to your meal. The natural sweetness of the carrots complements the tangy mustard in the potato salad.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers: Juicy shrimp marinated in garlic butter and grilled to perfection. These skewers add a touch of seafood elegance and a burst of umami flavor to your picnic spread.
Watermelon Feta Salad: A refreshing watermelon feta salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the salty tang of feta cheese. This fruit salad is a perfect palate cleanser alongside the hearty potato salad.
Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful bready texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy potato salad. The cornmeal adds a rustic charm to your meal.
Alternative Ingredients
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potatoes – Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes add a unique flavor and are naturally gluten-free.
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eggs – Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be used as a plant-based alternative for those avoiding eggs.
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mayonnaise – Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture and is a healthier option.
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mustard – Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard offers a similar tangy flavor and is gluten-free.
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celery – Substitute with cucumber: Cucumber adds a refreshing crunch and is naturally gluten-free.
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onion – Substitute with green onions: Green onions provide a milder flavor and are a good alternative.
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salt – Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt is a natural alternative and enhances the flavor.
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pepper – Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a subtler heat and is a good alternative.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Potato Salad
Classic Coleslaw: Crunchy and refreshing, this coleslaw pairs perfectly with any summer barbecue. Shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing make this a crowd-pleaser.
Deviled Eggs: A timeless appetizer, these deviled eggs are creamy and flavorful. Perfect for parties or as a quick snack, they are a hit with both kids and adults.
Creamy Cucumber Salad: Cool and crisp, this cucumber salad is a refreshing side dish. Sliced cucumbers and onions are tossed in a creamy dill dressing.
Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad: A hearty and flavorful pasta salad that combines crispy bacon, ranch dressing, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Perfect for picnics and potlucks.
Three Bean Salad: This vibrant three bean salad is packed with protein and fiber. A mix of kidney beans, green beans, and garbanzo beans in a tangy vinaigrette.
How To Store / Freeze Your Potato Salad
- To store your American potato salad, transfer it to an airtight container. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents any unwanted odors from seeping in.
- Place the container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the mayonnaise and mustard dressing.
- If you plan to freeze the salad, it’s best to do so without the mayonnaise and mustard dressing. The texture of these ingredients can change when frozen, resulting in a less desirable consistency.
- To freeze, place the potato mixture (potatoes, eggs, celery, and onion) in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents. The potato mixture can be frozen for up to 1 month.
- When ready to use, thaw the potato mixture in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, mix in the mayonnaise and mustard dressing, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- For best results, serve the salad chilled. If the salad seems a bit dry after thawing, you can add a bit more mayonnaise or a splash of milk to achieve the desired consistency.
How To Reheat Leftovers
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For a quick and easy method, use the microwave. Place the potato salad in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
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If you prefer a more even and gentle reheating, use the stovetop. Place the potato salad in a non-stick skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. This method helps maintain the texture of the potatoes and celery.
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For a slightly different twist, consider reheating in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the potato salad evenly in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method can give a slight crisp to the edges, adding a new texture to your dish.
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If you’re in a rush, a double boiler can be a great option. Place the potato salad in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir occasionally until warmed through. This method ensures gentle and even heating without drying out the mayonnaise mixture.
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For a unique approach, try reheating on a grill. Wrap the potato salad in aluminum foil and place it on a preheated grill over medium heat. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. This method can infuse a subtle smoky flavor into the potato salad.
Essential Tools for Making Potato Salad
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Large pot: Used to boil the potatoes until they are tender.
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Colander: Used to drain the boiled potatoes.
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Large mixing bowl: Used to combine the potatoes, eggs, celery, and onion.
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Medium mixing bowl: Used to mix the mayonnaise and mustard together.
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Wooden spoon: Used to stir the potato mixture and the mayonnaise-mustard mixture together.
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Knife: Used to chop the potatoes, eggs, celery, and onion.
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Cutting board: Used as a surface for chopping the ingredients.
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Measuring cups: Used to measure out the mayonnaise and chopped celery and onion.
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Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the mustard.
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Refrigerator: Used to chill the potato salad before serving.
How to Save Time on Making This Potato Salad
Pre-cook the potatoes: Boil the potatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This way, they are ready to use when you need them.
Use pre-chopped ingredients: Buy pre-chopped celery and onion from the store to save chopping time.
Hard-boil eggs ahead: Prepare the hard-boiled eggs a day before and keep them in the fridge.
Mix dressing separately: Combine mayonnaise and mustard in a small bowl beforehand, so you can quickly add it to the salad.
Chill faster: Spread the potato salad on a baking sheet to cool it faster in the refrigerator.

American Potato Salad Recipe
This recipe is gluten free.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes peeled and diced
- 3 large eggs hard-boiled and chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 cup celery chopped
- 1 cup onion chopped
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
Instructions
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1. Boil the potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let cool.
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2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the potatoes, eggs, celery, and onion.
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3. In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise and mustard. Add to the potato mixture and stir to combine.
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4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutritional Value
Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 105mg | Sodium: 300mg | Potassium: 500mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 100IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 1mg
FAQ:
How long can I store the potato salad in the refrigerator?
You can store the potato salad in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any type of potato you like. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well and hold their shape nicely.
Can I add other ingredients to this potato salad?
Of course! Feel free to add ingredients like pickles, bacon, or even some fresh herbs like dill or parsley to give it a personal touch.
Is there a way to make this potato salad lighter?
Yes, you can substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a light mayo to reduce the calories and fat content.
Do I need to peel the potatoes before boiling them?
It’s up to you! Peeling the potatoes gives a smoother texture, but leaving the skins on can add a bit of extra flavor and nutrients.
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