As the warm breeze and sunny days of summer arrive, it’s time to dust off the picnic basket and fire up the grill. And what’s a picnic without a hearty serving of old-fashioned potato salad? In this blog post, we’ll share a beloved classic: Old-Fashioned Potato Salad with Buttermilk. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of tender potatoes, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing into a side dish that’s perfect for any outdoor gathering.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a family reunion, or just craving a nostalgic side dish, this potato salad is a must-have. The addition of buttermilk to the dressing gives it a delightful tang that sets it apart from the rest. If you’re ready to master this timeless favorite, keep reading for a step-by-step guide and tips to ensure you make the Best Old-Fashioned Potato Salad with Buttermilk.
Ingredient
For the Potato Salad:
- 2 lbs (900g) red potatoes: Perfect for their waxy texture.
- 3 large eggs: For a classic potato salad touch.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Creates a rich and creamy base.
- 1/4 cup buttermilk: Adds a tangy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Enhances the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar: For a touch of acidity.
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped: Adds a refreshing crunch.
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped: Provides a mild onion flavor.
- 1/4 cup sweet pickles, finely chopped: Offers a touch of sweetness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Season your salad to perfection.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Start by scrubbing the red potatoes to remove any dirt. Leave the skin on for added texture and flavor.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover them with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender but not mushy.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool. Once they’re cool enough to handle, cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Hard-Boil the Eggs
- In a separate pot, cover the eggs with water. Bring to a rolling boil and then remove from heat.
- Let the eggs sit in the hot water for 12-14 minutes.
- Drain the hot water and transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool rapidly. Once cooled, peel and chop the eggs.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well-mixed.
Step 4: Assemble the Potato Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooked and diced potatoes, chopped eggs, celery, red onion, and sweet pickles.
- Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the potato salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your Best Old-Fashioned Potato Salad with Buttermilk as a side dish at your next picnic or summer gathering.
- This potato salad is even better when chilled, so don’t be afraid to make it in advance.
Cook’s Notes
- Be careful not to overcook the potatoes; they should be fork-tender, not mushy.
- If you’re not a fan of sweet pickles, feel free to substitute dill pickles for a tangy twist.
Variations
Loaded Potato Salad
For a heartier version, you can add crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions to your potato salad. It becomes a loaded baked potato salad that’s perfect for those who love extra toppings.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions (Approx. 600 words):
Creating a keto-friendly version of potato salad involves substituting cauliflower for the potatoes. Boil cauliflower florets until tender, then proceed with the recipe, replacing sweet pickles with dill pickles to reduce the carb content.
Old-Fashioned Potato Salad with Buttermilk is the ultimate picnic or barbecue side dish. Its creamy buttermilk dressing, combined with perfectly cooked potatoes and crunchy vegetables, is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This classic recipe captures the essence of summer and is the perfect accompaniment to grilled burgers, hot dogs, or any other outdoor favorite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a casual family dinner, this potato salad will become your go-to recipe for years to come.
