Easy Potato Salad

There are many things to consider when deciding on how to make potato salad. What potatoes to use, hot or cold, the occasion, hearty and satisfying or light or even vegetarian.

When choosing potatoes, consider texture. I’ve found the red and yellow potatoes to be tender and just right for most potato salads. I have used Russet and although they tend to be less moist, when making a creamy potato salad with lots of sour cream, these tend to be my favorite. The most important thing is to be sure not to overcook. Boil the potatoes until tender then remove from the heat immediately. Be sure to let the potatoes cool before you mix with the other ingredients.

Potato salad styles vary by region. European settlers adapted traditional recipes with local ingredients. This should be a factor when deciding how to make potato salad. Use local ingredients as they tend to be fresher and fresher ingredients not only add to the taste, they are full of vitamins and healthier for your family.

When deciding what ingredients to add to your potato salad think about the texture. Are you interested in a soothing soft creamy texture. If so use mayonnaise and even some sour cream and yogurt can add to the texture and makes a rich luxurious potato salad. This is my favorite style of potato salad however in addition I like to add crunch. Many recipes call for the traditional onion and celery however I’ve found sunflower seeds, when combined with vinegar, dill sour cream and yogurt to be excellent.

There are also many varieties of lighter potato salads. For example in addition to the potatoes you could add grated carrots, peas or other vegetables that you like. Lighten up on the mayonnaise and instead add your favorite salad dressing. Some potato salads can be sweet and sour using vinegar and sugar. Hot or cold is also a consideration. British and French recipes favor cold potato salads while the German potato salads are preferred warm with hot vinegar and bacon.

Also think about what is being served with the potato salad. The chilled creamy potato salad is a great compliment to a traditional barbecue menu of burgers, hot dogs and chicken. This usually is a very hearty satisfying meal usually served outdoors. The lighter potato salads might be a better compliment to salmon or a lighter vegetarian meal. However vegetarian or vegan need not be light. Substitute a vegan mayonnaise, vegetarian bacon bits. lots of spices such as dill and paprika and you can create a very satisfying dish.

There really are no rules in How to make Potato salad and it does not even have to be a side dish. By adding sliced chicken or other meats you could easily turn this side dish into a delicious main course. Try adding your favorite variety of nuts. It’s really up to you and your imagination, the tastes of your family and the occasion that might help you determine how to make potato salad..