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Classic potato salad with creamy dressing, tender potatoes, celery, onions, and herbs served in a bowl, garnished with paprika and parsley.

Potato Salad Recipe – Easy Summer Side Dish Idea

This potato salad recipe is a timeless classic, featuring tender potatoes tossed in a creamy dressing with celery, onions, and herbs. Garnished with paprika and parsley, it’s the perfect side dish for summer BBQs, picnics, or family dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American, European-inspired
Servings 8
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowls
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold or red potatoes (cut into chunks)
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp yellow mustard
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • ½ cup celery, diced
  • ½ cup onion, finely chopped
  • 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • ¼ cup dill pickles or relish
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • Paprika for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Boil potatoes: Place potato chunks in salted water. Boil until fork-tender (15–20 minutes). Drain and cool slightly.
  • Prepare dressing: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  • Add vegetables & eggs: Stir in celery, onion, pickles, and chopped eggs.
  • Combine: Gently fold warm potatoes into dressing mixture. Add herbs.
  • Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight for best flavor).
  • Serve: Garnish with paprika and extra herbs before serving.

Notes

  • Potato choice: Waxy potatoes hold shape best; starchy potatoes absorb dressing more.
  • Seasoning tip: Toss potatoes with vinegar or salt while warm for maximum flavor.
  • Make-ahead: Potato salad tastes better the next day as flavors meld.
  • Variations: Try German-style with vinegar and bacon, Mediterranean with olive oil and lemon, or healthier versions with Greek yogurt or avocado.
  • Serving tip: Always keep chilled until ready to serve, especially outdoors.
Keyword BBQ classic, creamy potato salad, easy potato salad recipe, picnic side dish, Potato salad