Classic Potato Salad with Mustard Dressing – Easy & Delicious
Potato salad is a timeless dish enjoyed worldwide for its creamy texture, delicious flavors, and versatility. Whether served at summer barbecues, family gatherings, or holiday feasts, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. The secret to a great potato salad lies in its dressing, and this Potato Salad with Mustard Dressing Recipe offers a tangy, slightly spicy twist that enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes. Made with a perfect blend of mustard, mayonnaise, and fresh herbs, this recipe delivers a flavorful side dish that complements grilled meats, sandwiches, or even stands alone as a light meal.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Active Time: 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Cuisine: American, European
- Course: Side Dish
- Servings: 6
- Calories per Serving: 250 kcal
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Strainer or colander
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
For the Potato Salad:
- 2 pounds of Yukon Gold or red potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- ⅓ cup dill pickles, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Mustard Dressing:
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey (or sugar)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
- Fill a large pot with water and add 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Add the cubed potatoes and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not mushy.
- Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Mustard Dressing
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to create a smooth, creamy dressing.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Place the cooled potatoes in a large mixing bowl.
- Add chopped celery, red onion, dill pickles, and fresh parsley.
- Pour the mustard dressing over the salad and gently mix to coat the potatoes evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Give the salad a final stir before serving.
- Garnish with extra parsley or paprika for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside your favorite grilled meats or sandwiches.
Tips for the Best Potato Salad
- Use the right potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best because they hold their shape and have a creamy texture.
- Don’t overcook the potatoes: Overcooking can lead to a mushy salad. Keep an eye on them while boiling.
- Let the flavors develop: Chilling the salad for at least 15 minutes (or even overnight) enhances the taste.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the dressing before mixing and adjust salt, mustard, or sweetness to preference.
Variations & Substitutions
- Make it dairy-free: Use a dairy-free mayonnaise alternative.
- Add hard-boiled eggs: Chop 2-3 hard-boiled eggs for extra protein and flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper for a kick.
- Herbal twist: Swap parsley for fresh dill or chives for a different flavor profile.
Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions
- Store leftover potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Avoid freezing as mayonnaise-based dressings tend to separate when thawed.
- If making ahead, stir well before serving as the dressing may settle.
Conclusion
This Potato Salad with Mustard Dressing Recipe is a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors that elevate a classic dish. It’s easy to make, packed with fresh ingredients, and a great addition to any meal. Whether for a picnic, potluck, or a simple family dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit! Try it today and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures.
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.