Mom’s Potato Salad

If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly captures summer nostalgia and brings everyone to the table with smiles, you can’t go wrong with Mom’s Potato Salad. This classic recipe is delightfully creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of crunchy, making it a timeless favorite that you’ll revisit all season long. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, potluck, or a simple family dinner, Mom’s Potato Salad delivers warm, comforting flavors that feel like a big hug from the inside.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Mom’s Potato Salad lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each element adds its own unique touch, from the creamy tang of the dressing to the fresh crunch of celery and the subtle bite of spring onions. Let’s break down these essentials that come together to create pure potato salad perfection.

• Mayonnaise: The creamy base that makes this salad irresistibly smooth and rich.
• Sour cream: Adds a light tang to balance the richness of the mayo.
• Yellow mustard: Brings a gentle zing to brighten the flavor.
• Relish (sweet or dill): Offers a sweet or savory pop that livens up the dressing.
• Sugar: Just a touch to mellow and round out the flavors.
• Celery seed: Provides an earthy note looking back to classic deli potato salads.
• Salt and cracked black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance every bite.
• Russet potatoes: The sturdy, fluffy potato that holds shape and soaks up dressing.
• Celery heart and leaves: Adds crisp texture and fresh green vibrance.
• Spring onions: A mild, oniony crunch to keep things interesting.
• Hard-cooked eggs: Classic addition delivering creaminess and a fun, rustic touch.
• Paprika: For dusting on top, giving just the right dash of color and subtle warmth.

How to Make Mom’s Potato Salad

Step 1: Make the dressing

Start by whisking together the mayonnaise, sour cream, yellow mustard, relish, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper. This creamy dressing is the soul of Mom’s Potato Salad, tying all the flavors together with its bright and tangy personality. Be sure to taste and tweak the balance, because this is your flavor foundation.

Step 2: Prepare the potatoes

Peel your russet potatoes and halve them lengthwise. Place the pieces in cold water to prevent browning while you prep everything else. Next, drain and boil the potatoes in salted water until tender when pierced with a knife, usually about 20 to 25 minutes once boiling. It’s important to check early and often, so you don’t overcook them into mush.

Step 3: Combine potatoes and dressing

Drain the cooked potatoes and cut into chunks. Transfer them gently to a large bowl using a bench scraper to avoid breaking them up too much. Toss the warm potatoes immediately with some of the dressing—this step is pure magic because the hot potatoes soak up those flavors deeply.

Step 4: Add the crunch and finishing touches

Now, fold in the thinly sliced celery, spring onions (white and green parts), and roughly chopped hard-cooked eggs. Add more dressing, adjusting to your preference, and toss everything carefully. Remember, depending on your potato size, you might not need all the dressing—just be generous enough to coat every bite.

Step 5: Chill and season

Cover the potato salad and chill it before serving. Just before you bring it to the table, sprinkle a pinch of paprika on top. This welcoming touch adds both gorgeous color and a mild warmth that makes Mom’s Potato Salad look as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Mom’s Potato Salad

Garnishes

To elevate your Mom’s Potato Salad, consider fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill for a fragrant boost. Crispy bacon bits or thin slices of radish can add an unexpected crunch, while a few extra chopped hard-boiled eggs on top make the salad feel even more homey and inviting.

Side Dishes

Mom’s Potato Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as barbecue chicken, burgers, or smoky sausages. It also complements lighter fare like fresh garden salads or corn on the cob, creating a well-rounded summer feast full of contrasts and complementary flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Serve Mom’s Potato Salad in individual mason jars or mini bowls for a charming picnic or party presentation. You can also scoop it onto lettuce leaves for bite-sized lettuce wraps that surprise and delight guests, making it a standout at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Mom’s Potato Salad keeps wonderfully for up to a week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen with time, so leftovers might be even better after a day or two. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before serving again.

Freezing

This potato salad is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated; freezing is not recommended as it can cause the potatoes and dressing to become watery and separate upon thawing, altering the texture and flavor you love.

Reheating

Since this salad shines cold or at room temperature, reheating is unnecessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to bring out the flavors without compromising its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for Mom’s Potato Salad?

Yes! While russet potatoes are traditional for their fluffy texture, Yukon Golds work beautifully too, offering a slightly creamier consistency that holds up well in salads.

Is there a way to make Mom’s Potato Salad healthier?

Absolutely. You can use Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the mayonnaise and sour cream to reduce fat while keeping creaminess. Adding extra celery and spring onions also boosts the salad’s freshness and crunch.

Can I prepare Mom’s Potato Salad the day before?

Definitely! In fact, making it a day ahead helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just keep it covered in the fridge, and give it a quick stir right before serving.

What if I don’t have relish on hand?

If you’re out of relish, finely chopped pickles or a small spoonful of pickle juice can provide a similar tangy pop that keeps the dressing lively and flavorful.

How do I know when the potatoes are perfectly cooked?

Use a sharp knife or fork to pierce the potatoes gently. They should be tender enough to slide off easily but still hold their shape without breaking apart into mush.

Final Thoughts

Mom’s Potato Salad is one of those timeless dishes that brings simple ingredients and familiar flavors together into something truly special. Whether you’re new to potato salad or a longtime fan, this recipe promises a comforting, crowd-pleasing side that’s perfect all summer long. Give it a try and get ready to enjoy a little taste of home in every bite.