the potato salad

Instructions:

1. Cook the Potatoes:

• Wash the potatoes thoroughly and cut them into 1-inch cubes. There’s no need to peel them, as the skin adds flavor and texture.
• Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
• Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the potatoes for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but not falling apart.
• Drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly. You can also place them in the fridge to speed up the cooling process.

2. Make the Dressing:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
• Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more mustard for tang, more sugar for sweetness, or more vinegar for acidity, depending on your preference.

3. Combine the Salad:

• Once the potatoes have cooled slightly, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped celery, red onion, and chopped hard-boiled eggs (if using).
• Pour the dressing over the potatoes and vegetables. Gently toss everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

4. Chill the Potato Salad:

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the potato salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill, making it even more refreshing.

5. Serve and Garnish:

• Before serving, give the potato salad a final gentle stir. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh taste.

6. Enjoy:

• Serve the potato salad cold as a side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or any main course of your choice. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, and holiday gatherings!

Tips and Variations:

• Add-ins: Customize your potato salad by adding ingredients like diced pickles, green onions, or crumbled bacon for extra flavor. Some people also like to incorporate sweet relish for a hint of sweetness.
• Use Different Potatoes: While Yukon gold and red potatoes are commonly used for their creamy texture, you can also try russet potatoes for a fluffier salad.
• Creamier Salad: If you prefer an extra-creamy texture, you can add a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the dressing mix.
• Vegan Option: For a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo alternative and skip the hard-boiled eggs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Classic Comfort: This potato salad is a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors that everyone will love.
• Customizable: Feel free to play around with ingredients and make it your own. It’s easy to adjust the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
• Make-Ahead: This dish is ideal for prepping in advance. It tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to blend together.

Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own, this classic potato salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. With its creamy dressing and hearty potatoes, it’s the perfect comfort food that always brings a smile. Make it once, and it will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!