American potato salad , also known as American-style potato salad, is a classic American dish that you've surely heard mentioned countless times in TV shows and movies. If you don't live in North America, you might be surprised by the importance and popularity of potato salad in that region, when in the rest of the countries it's simply a side dish. And prepare to be even more surprised because it even has its own holiday... Just like you read!
cold potato salad is believed to have its roots in German cuisine. German immigrants brought with them a similar recipe called "kartoffelsalat," consisting of boiled potatoes with vinaigrette and herbs. Whether this is true or not, American potato salad is considered a typical American dish.
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Potato salad, an American family classic
American potato salad is a very common dish at American events and celebrations , such as Independence Day (July 4), barbecues, picnics, and outdoor family gatherings.
This is because this salad is a very versatile side dish. It can be served alongside grilled meat dishes, sandwiches, burgers, or even as part of a salad bar alongside coleslaw , Waldorf salad , Caesar salad, and others.
National Potato Salad Day
June 30th is National Potato Salad Day in the United States. What does it mean and how is it celebrated?
- At the government level, the promotion and recognition of this iconic dish is encouraged through various related activities and events. Many people take advantage of the occasion to share their favorite recipes, exchange culinary tips, and enjoy potato salad with friends and family.
- During this celebration, it's common for people to share and discover new potato salad recipes and variations. You can explore options that include different ingredients, dressings, and seasonings to add a personal touch to this classic dish.
- In some communities, events and competitions related to this preparation are organized. These events may include recipe competitions, tastings, presentation contests, and more, providing an opportunity to showcase participants' creativity and culinary skills.
- With the rise of social media, many people share photos, recipes, and experiences related to potato salad on this day. Hashtags like #NationalPotatoSaladDay and #NationalPotatoSaladDay to join the conversation and share their love for this dish.
What's in this salad?
The main ingredients of American potato salad are usually potatoes, eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, onion, celery, vinegar, salt, and pepper. However, recipes may vary depending on regional and personal preferences.
There are many regional variations of this salad. For example, in some regions of the Southern United States, chopped dill pickles are added, while in the Northeast, chopped sweet pickles may be added. Some recipes also incorporate crispy bacon, bell peppers, dill, or other herbs and spices.
Different varieties of potatoes can be used to make the salad, such as red potatoes, russet potatoes, or yellow potatoes. Each type of potato can add a slightly different texture and flavor to the salad.
The dressing: mayonnaise versus vinaigrette
There's a debate about whether American potato salad should be made with mayonnaise or vinaigrette. In different regions of the United States, you can find both versions, and each has its own following.
Fans of dressing salads with mayonnaise should keep one thing in mind: It's important to keep potato salad refrigerated to avoid the risk of food poisoning. It's recommended to store it in the refrigerator and consume it within 3-4 days of preparation.
American potato salad recipe
American potato salad is a very popular dish, especially during the summer months . It's a common side dish at outdoor meals and is served cold or at room temperature.
Yield : 8 portions
Preparation time : 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg of red or yellow potatoes
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup sliced green olives
- 2 tablespoons of white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How to make American potato salad easily
- Wash and cut the potatoes into approximately 2 cm cubes. Place them in a large pot with cold, salted water. Cook over medium heat until tender but still firm, 10 to 15 minutes.
- Boil the eggs in a separate pot. Then peel them, chop them into small pieces, and set aside. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain and let them cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, chopped onion, celery, olives, vinegar, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well. Add the cooked potatoes and chopped eggs to the mixture. Stir gently.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the potato salad for at least 1 hour. Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or garnish with fresh basil leaves (optional).
