Are you ready to experience potato salad perfection? Forget bland, boring side dishes – this recipe is about to elevate your picnic, barbecue, or weeknight dinner to legendary status. Ezell's Potato Salad isn't just a side; it's a celebration of creamy, tangy, and perfectly seasoned potatoes. It's the kind of dish that gets people talking, and asking for seconds (and thirds!). Get ready to impress your family and friends with this incredibly easy yet unbelievably delicious recipe. This is homemade cooking at its finest, a quick dinner idea that's also a healthy meal option when you make smart ingredient choices.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite brand!)
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (optional, but adds a nice bite!)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional, for extra protein and color)
Instructions:
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. Don't overcook; you want them tender but not mushy.
Step 2: Drain and Cool
Drain the potatoes well and spread them out on a baking sheet to cool completely. This step is crucial; hot potatoes will melt the mayonnaise.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, relish, vinegar, sugar, celery seed, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Combine and Mix
Once the potatoes are completely cool, add them to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold in the celery and red onion (if using). If using hard-boiled eggs, add them now as well. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to overmix and mash the potatoes.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. The flavors will meld beautifully, creating an even more delicious potato salad. Serve cold and enjoy!
Tips for Potato Salad Perfection:
- Potato Choice: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture and flavor.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing will result in mushy potatoes. Gentle folding is key.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the seasonings to your preference. Some people prefer more vinegar or mustard.
- Make it Ahead: This potato salad tastes even better the next day!
Variations:
- Bacon Potato Salad: Add 1/2 cup of crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
- Dill Potato Salad: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh dill for a bright, herbaceous touch.
- Spicy Potato Salad: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Ezell's potato salad recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. It's one of the best recipes for easy and delicious homemade cooking. Enjoy!