The smell of potatoes boiling can evoke memories of sunny days filled with laughter and family gatherings. Nothing says “Memorial Day” like a heaping spoonful of Memorial Day Classic Potato Salad on your plate. Picture this delightful dish: creamy potatoes mingling with crunchy celery and tangy pickles. It’s an explosion of flavors that will make your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching.
Growing up, my family would whip up this classic dish every summer holiday—whether it was fireworks or cookouts, it was always there. The anticipation built as we gathered around the table; who could resist that creamy goodness? Now it’s your turn to create those unforgettable moments with friends and family while savoring this delicious staple.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Memorial Day classic potato salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a favorite for busy cooks.
- Its rich flavor profile combines creaminess with a hint of tanginess for a refreshing taste.
- The vibrant colors from fresh ingredients make it visually appealing on any picnic table.
- Perfect for barbecues or family picnics, it’s a versatile side dish that pairs well with grilled favorites.
Sharing this dish at our annual neighborhood barbecue brought smiles all around; kids loved it just as much as adults did.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Potatoes: Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for their creamy texture when cooked.
- Mayonnaise: A rich mayonnaise adds creaminess; opt for full-fat for the best flavor.
- Mustard: Yellow mustard lends a zesty kick; feel free to adjust according to taste.
- Celery: Chopped celery provides crunch; select crisp stalks for maximum freshness.
- Onion: Red onion offers a mild sweetness and beautiful color; finely chop it for even distribution.
- Pickles: Dill pickles add tang; you can slice them or chop them according to preference.
- Hard-boiled eggs: Eggs elevate creaminess and add protein; boil them until fully set.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in the dish.
- Fresh Herbs (optional): Chopped dill or parsley brighten up the dish with freshness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepping your Memorial Day Classic Potato Salad is as simple as 1-2-3! Let’s dive into each step that will guide you through creating this culinary masterpiece.
Boil the Potatoes: Begin by washing about two pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into evenly sized chunks—no one enjoys an undercooked bite! Place them in a large pot filled with cold water; add salt generously and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Prepare the Dressing: While the potatoes cook—approximately 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender—whisk together one cup of mayonnaise and two tablespoons of yellow mustard in a separate bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Add Vegetables and Eggs: Once the potatoes are cooked and cooled slightly (you don’t want them steaming hot), fold in half a cup each of chopped celery and red onion along with three chopped hard-boiled eggs into your mayo mixture.
Toss Everything Together: Carefully mix the vegetables with the potatoes in a large mixing bowl until everything is coated evenly. Don’t be too rough; we want those beautiful potato chunks intact!
Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer everything into an airtight container. Refrigerate your masterpiece for at least an hour before serving—the flavors need time to mingle!
Enjoy making this delightful dish that promises laughter and love around every bite!
This Memorial Day Classic Potato Salad brings nostalgia paired with refreshing flavors—the perfect summertime companion. So roll up your sleeves and get cooking because everyone at your gathering will be asking for seconds!
You Must Know
- The Memorial Day Classic Potato Salad is not just a side; it’s a celebration on a plate.
- With its creamy texture and zesty flavor, it’s the perfect companion for any summer BBQ.
- Trust me, your friends will be begging for the recipe!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the potatoes until fork-tender, then let them cool before adding other ingredients. This ensures they absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out mayo for Greek yogurt or add crispy bacon bits for extra crunch. The customization options are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store potato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. No reheating needed—enjoy it chilled!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Choose waxy potatoes like red or Yukon gold for the best texture in your salad.
- Steer clear of overcooking the potatoes to maintain their shape and flavor.
- Adding vinegar while they boil enhances taste and prevents browning.
Sharing this dish at a summer gathering made me realize how simple ingredients can create amazing memories. Everyone loved my potato salad so much that I had to share my secret recipe.
FAQ
What type of potatoes are best for Memorial Day Classic Potato Salad?
Waxy potatoes like red or Yukon gold hold their shape well and enhance flavor.
Can I make Memorial Day Classic Potato Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance for deeper flavors.
How do I prevent my potato salad from being too mushy?
Make sure not to overboil the potatoes; they should be fork-tender but firm.
Memorial Day Classic Potato Salad
Memorial Day Classic Potato Salad is a creamy, tangy delight that’s perfect for summer gatherings and barbecues. This easy-to-make dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- ½ cup chopped celery
- ½ cup finely chopped red onion
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- ¼ cup dill pickles, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Wash and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into even pieces. Place them in a pot with cold salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Once the potatoes are cooled, fold in celery, red onion, hard-boiled eggs, and pickles into the dressing until well-coated.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to let flavors meld.
Notes
- For added creaminess, consider substituting Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise.
- Customize with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor boost.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
