This Million Dollar Potato Salad is the epitome of comfort food with its rich and creamy dressing enveloping tender potatoes. The addition of sour cream, mustard, and vinegar provides a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors, while the crunch from celery and pickles adds a delightful texture to every bite. It’s a side dish that shines at any gathering, whether it’s a casual family BBQ, a summer picnic, or a holiday potluck.
The beauty of this potato salad lies in its simplicity and the way it combines classic ingredients to create a dish that feels both familiar and luxurious. The smooth, creamy texture paired with the fresh bite of vegetables and the subtle seasoning makes it an irresistible addition to your meal. Garnished with paprika and fresh parsley, this salad not only tastes delicious but also looks stunning on the table. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with everyone.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- Paprika for garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Drain and allow them to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Add the cooked potatoes, celery, red onion, pickles, and eggs to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together until the potatoes are well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, sprinkle with paprika and garnish with fresh parsley.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 servings
Nutritional Information:
Each serving of this potato salad is approximately 290 kcal. It’s a hearty side dish that combines carbohydrates from the potatoes with healthy fats and a moderate amount of protein. The addition of eggs increases the protein content, while the mayonnaise and sour cream contribute to the creamy texture and richness. This potato salad also provides vitamins and minerals like potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, primarily from the potatoes and vegetables.
Tips for Making the Perfect Potato Salad:
- Choosing the Potatoes: Waxy potatoes like red or Yukon Gold are the best options for potato salad because they hold their shape well when boiled. Their firm texture ensures the salad doesn’t turn mushy and retains a pleasant bite.
- Cooking the Potatoes: To ensure evenly cooked potatoes, start by placing them in cold, salted water and bring it to a boil. This helps cook the potatoes evenly without the outer layers becoming too soft.
- Cooling the Potatoes: Allow the potatoes to cool slightly after boiling before mixing them with the dressing. Warm potatoes will absorb more of the dressing, enhancing the flavor and creaminess of the salad.
Variations:
- Lightened-Up Version: For a lighter version of this potato salad, you can substitute some of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This reduces the fat content and adds a slight tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Vegan Option: To make this potato salad vegan, replace the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative and the sour cream with a plant-based yogurt. Skip the eggs or use vegan egg substitutes.
- Add-ins: Customize this salad by adding extras like crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor and texture. You can also mix in some fresh herbs like dill or chives for a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dish Pairings: This potato salad is a versatile side dish that pairs well with various mains. It’s perfect alongside grilled meats like chicken, steak, or burgers. It also complements barbecue dishes, sandwiches, and even fried chicken.
- Make-Ahead: This salad tastes even better after it has had time to sit and let the flavors meld together. Make it a few hours or even a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.
Storage and Shelf Life:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to stir the salad before serving again to redistribute the dressing evenly.
- Freezing: Potato salad is not recommended for freezing as the texture of the potatoes and the creamy dressing can change upon thawing.
Health Benefits:
- Potatoes: Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. They provide energy and are relatively low in calories when not fried or smothered in butter.
- Eggs: Adding eggs to the salad provides a source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D, B12, and choline, which are beneficial for brain health.
- Celery and Onions: These vegetables add crunch and freshness while providing additional fiber and vitamins like vitamin K and antioxidants.
Flavor Profile:
This Million Dollar Potato Salad is all about balancing creaminess with tanginess and crunch. The dressing combines mayonnaise and sour cream for a luscious texture, while yellow mustard and white vinegar add a tangy punch that brightens the dish. The celery and red onion introduce a fresh, crisp bite that contrasts nicely with the soft potatoes, and the dill pickles give it a subtle hint of acidity and zest.
Cooking with Kids:
This recipe is a fantastic way to get kids involved in the kitchen. They can help by peeling and cutting the potatoes (with supervision), mixing the dressing, and folding the salad ingredients together. It’s a great opportunity to teach them about basic cooking skills and the importance of tasting and adjusting seasonings.
Common Questions:
Q: Can I use other types of potatoes?
A: Yes, while waxy potatoes like red or Yukon Gold are preferred, you can also use russet potatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Just be aware that russets tend to break down more easily, so handle them gently to maintain some texture.
Q: How do I prevent the potato salad from becoming watery?
A: Be sure to drain the potatoes thoroughly after boiling and allow them to cool slightly before mixing with the dressing. If the potatoes are too hot or have excess moisture, the salad may become watery.
Q: Can I make this salad without eggs?
A: Absolutely. If you prefer to skip the eggs, the potato salad will still be delicious. You can add more vegetables like chopped bell peppers or olives for extra flavor and texture.
Occasion Suggestions:
- Barbecues and Picnics: This potato salad is a classic choice for summer barbecues, picnics, and potlucks. It’s easy to transport and pairs well with grilled dishes.
- Holiday Gatherings: Serve this creamy potato salad as part of a festive holiday spread. Its comforting and familiar flavors make it a crowd-pleaser during family gatherings and celebrations.
Conclusion:
The Million Dollar Potato Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a flavorful and satisfying addition to any meal that brings both comfort and a touch of indulgence. Its creamy, tangy dressing, combined with tender potatoes, crunchy vegetables, and savory eggs, creates a dish that’s both familiar and elevated. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual family dinner, a summer barbecue, or a festive holiday gathering, this potato salad is sure to be a hit.
With its versatility and ease of preparation, this recipe allows you to customize and adapt it to fit any occasion and dietary preference. From classic to lightened-up versions, it’s a crowd-pleaser that resonates with a wide range of tastes. The balance of textures and flavors in every bite makes this potato salad truly live up to its “Million Dollar” name, making it a must-have recipe for your culinary repertoire.