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Origin of Amazing Southern Potato Salad

Southern Potato Salad Recipe

Origin of Amazing Southern Potato Salad; Southern potato salad holds a cherished place in the heart of American cuisine, particularly in the Southern United States where family gatherings, church picnics, and holiday cookouts wouldn’t feel complete without a bowl of this creamy, tangy, and flavorful side dish.

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes peeled and chopped
  • 4 large eggs
  • ½ cup celery finely diced
  • ¼ cup yellow or white onion finely diced
  • cup sweet pickle relish or chopped bread-and-butter pickles
  • 1 cup mayonnaise preferably Duke’s or Hellmann’s
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sugar optional, for a slightly sweet finish
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Paprika for garnish
  • Optional: dash of garlic powder celery seed, or pickle juice for added flavor

Instructions
 

  • Instructions:
  • Boil the potatoes:
  • Peel and chop the potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Salt the water generously, bring to a boil, then simmer for 10–15 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
  • Boil the eggs:
  • Place eggs in a saucepan, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 12 minutes. Transfer to an ice bath, cool, peel, and chop.
  • Prepare vegetables and relish:
  • While the potatoes and eggs are cooking, dice the celery and onion finely. Measure out the relish.
  • Make the dressing:
  • In a large bowl, mix the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings (e.g., celery seed or garlic powder).
  • Combine ingredients:
  • Add the slightly cooled potatoes to the dressing and gently fold together. Add the chopped eggs, celery, onion, and relish. Mix until evenly combined, being careful not to overmix.
  • Adjust seasoning:
  • Taste the salad and add more salt, pepper, mustard, or mayo as needed. For extra moisture and flavor, a splash of pickle juice can be added.
  • Chill and serve:
  • Transfer to a serving bowl, sprinkle with paprika, and cover. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.