Growing up, my grandmother’s Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad was a staple at every family gathering. I can still remember the aroma of the creamy dressing, the tender chunks of potatoes, and the satisfying crunch of the celery and onion. It was like a warm hug on a summer day, and I couldn’t get enough of it.
As I got older, I would watch her meticulously prepare the salad, carefully chopping the vegetables and seasoning the dressing just right. She’d always let me taste it before adding the final touches, and I’d nod enthusiastically, knowing it was going to be the hit of the party. When she’d bring that big bowl out to the table, everyone would practically pounce on it, eager to get their share.
Now, as an experienced home cook, I cherish that Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad recipe more than ever. It’s become my go-to dish for barbecues, potlucks, and casual gatherings. And let me tell you, it never fails to impress.
Why This Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad
The secret to this Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy mayonnaise dressing is spiked with the tangy kick of Dijon mustard, while the hard-boiled eggs add a rich, velvety element. The onion and celery provide a satisfying crunch, and the fresh parsley lends a bright, herbal note that ties it all together. It’s a symphony of flavors that simply can’t be beat.
But what really sets this recipe apart is the method. My grandmother always insisted on boiling the potatoes until they were just tender, then letting them cool completely before tossing them with the dressing. This ensures that the potatoes don’t get waterlogged, and the dressing clings to every bite. It’s a small but crucial step that makes all the difference.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes: These buttery, waxy potatoes hold their shape beautifully when cooked and tossed with the dressing.
- 6 hard-boiled eggs, chopped: The eggs add a luxurious creaminess and richness to the salad.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: The base of the dressing, providing a silky, tangy backbone.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: This pungent, tangy ingredient balances the richness of the mayonnaise and eggs.
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar: A touch of acidity brightens up the flavors and cuts through the richness.
- 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the best in the other ingredients.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion and 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery: These crunchy vegetables add textural contrast and a savory complexity.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: The fresh herbal notes lighten up the salad and provide a beautiful finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad Instructions
Preparing Your Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad
Preparing this Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad is a breeze, with a total time of just 27 minutes (15 minutes of prep and 12 minutes of cooking). All you’ll need is a large pot, a sharp knife, and a mixing bowl. Let’s get started!
1- Begin by peeling and cutting the Yukon Gold potatoes into 1-inch cubes. This uniform size will ensure even cooking.
2- Place the potato cubes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender when pierced with a fork.
3- Drain the cooked potatoes in a colander and let them cool completely, about 15 minutes. This cooling step is crucial to prevent the potatoes from getting waterlogged.
4- While the potatoes are cooling, hard-boil the eggs, chop the onion and celery, and chop the fresh parsley.
5- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potato cubes, chopped eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Gently fold everything together until the dressing is evenly distributed.
6- Finish by folding in the chopped onion, celery, and parsley. Give the salad a final gentle stir, then cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Pro Tips for Success
Here are a few pro tips to ensure your Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad turns out perfectly every time:
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their ideal texture and flavor. Russet or red potatoes can work, but the Yukon Golds are the gold standard.
- Be sure to let the cooked potatoes cool completely before adding the dressing. This prevents the potatoes from absorbing too much moisture and getting soggy.
- Adjust the amount of Dijon mustard to your personal taste. Start with 1/4 cup and add more if you want a stronger mustard flavor.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fresh herbs. Dill, chives, or even a combination can add a lovely twist.
Serving and Storing Your Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad
Perfect Pairings for Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad
This Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad is the perfect side dish for all your summer gatherings. It serves 8 generously, making it ideal for barbecues, picnics, and potlucks.
For the main course, it pairs beautifully with grilled burgers, hot dogs, or barbecue chicken. It also makes a delightful accompaniment to fried fish or a crisp green salad.
As for beverages, a cold beer or a refreshing lemonade complement the rich, tangy flavors of the salad perfectly. And don’t forget to have plenty of crusty bread on hand for scooping up every last bite.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad is that it actually gets better with time. The flavors meld together as it chills in the refrigerator, making it a fantastic make-ahead dish.
You can prepare the salad up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, give it a gentle stir to reincorporate the dressing.
If you have leftovers, they’ll keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the salad for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad
Creative Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad Variations
While this classic Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad is a true crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it:
- Add a bit of crumbled bacon or diced ham for a savory twist.
- Swap in diced dill pickles or sweet relish for a tangy, crunchy element.
- Use a blend of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing.
- Stir in some chopped fresh dill or chives for an herbal note.
- For a touch of sweetness, add a tablespoon or two of honey to the dressing.
Making Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad Diet-Friendly
This Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad can easily be adapted to suit various dietary needs:
- For a gluten-free version, simply ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- To make it vegan, substitute plant-based mayonnaise and omit the hard-boiled eggs.
- For a low-carb take, swap the potatoes for riced cauliflower or chopped celery root.
- If you’re watching your sodium intake, reduce the amount of salt or use low-sodium versions of the mayonnaise and mustard.
No matter how you customize it, this Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of potato besides Yukon Gold?
A: While Yukon Gold potatoes are the ideal choice for this recipe, you can substitute other varieties like red or Russet potatoes. Just keep in mind that the texture and cooking times may vary slightly.
Q: How long does it take to prepare this Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad?
A: The total time to make this recipe is 27 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 12 minutes of cook time. The key is to let the cooked potatoes cool completely before tossing them with the dressing.
Q: Can I make this Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This salad actually gets better with time, as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad recipe serves 8 generous portions, making it perfect for larger gatherings or a crowd.
Q: What if the salad turns out too dry or too wet?
A: If the salad seems too dry, simply add a bit more mayonnaise and Dijon mustard to reach the desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too wet, try adding a touch more salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad
- Total Time: 27
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
This Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad is a classic, creamy side dish that’s perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, and family gatherings. Made with tender potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and a tangy dressing of Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and aromatic seasonings, it’s a nostalgic taste of homemade comfort.
Ingredients
– 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 6 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and allow to cool completely.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, chopped eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the dressing is evenly distributed.
3. Fold in the chopped onion, celery, and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For best results, use Yukon Gold potatoes, which have a creamy, waxy texture that holds up well in potato salad. You can also add a sprinkle of paprika or chopped fresh dill on top for extra flavor and presentation.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 12
- Category: Sides
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Old Fashioned Mustard Potato Salad is a true classic that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. The perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and crunchy textures makes it an absolute delight to savor.
Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, a potluck picnic, or just enjoying it as a weeknight side dish, this recipe is sure to become a new go-to in your culinary repertoire. So go ahead, give it a try, and get ready to be transported back to the good old days of homemade comfort food. And don’t forget to let me know what you think – I’d love to hear your feedback!
