Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad is a delightful dish that brings together the classic flavors of mustard, onion, and hard boiled eggs. This potato salad is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, family picnic, or holiday feast, this recipe shines as a perfect side dish. Its creamy texture and tangy taste make it an irresistible addition to your meal lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Flavor: Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad features a perfect blend of ingredients that create a timeless taste loved by many.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip this up in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pairs wonderfully with burgers, hotdogs, and ribs—ideal for barbecues and potlucks.
• Make Ahead Friendly: This salad can be made in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to fit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having these on hand will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Pot
• Colander
• Mixing Bowl
• Small Bowl
• Spoon or Spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: Necessary for boiling the potatoes until tender.
• Colander: Helps strain the potatoes after cooking, ensuring they cool properly.
• Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining all ingredients without spills.

Ingredients

For the Salad Base

• 1½ cups mayonnaise (homemade or store bought, or more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1½ teaspoons kosher salt (more or less to taste)
• 3/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (more or less to taste)
• 5 pounds russet potatoes (peeled and cut into large bitesize chunks)

For the Add-ins

• 6 hard boiled eggs (peeled and coarsely chopped)
• 3 ribs celery (sliced (about heaping 1/2 cup))
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green pepper (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl combine the mayo, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

In a large pot, add the potatoes and fill it with water until covering them by an inch or two. Cover the pot and bring it to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 3: Cool the Potatoes

Once cooked, strain the potatoes using a colander. Allow them to cool down to room temperature before proceeding.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Place the cooled potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Add in the sliced celery, chopped onions, optional green peppers, and coarsely chopped hard boiled eggs.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

Pour in your prepared dressing over the potato mixture. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your potato salad and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

Enjoy Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad as a scrumptious addition to any meal!

How to Serve Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad

Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with many meals. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or a casual dinner, this potato salad will elevate your menu. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to make the most of this classic recipe.

With Grilled Meats

• Burgers – The creamy texture complements the juicy flavors of grilled burgers.
• Hotdogs – A perfect side that adds a refreshing crunch to every bite.
• Ribs – Pairing with tender ribs makes for a satisfying and hearty meal.

As Part of a Picnic

• Sandwiches – Serve alongside sandwiches for a delightful picnic spread.
• Wraps – Adds flavor and substance when included in a wrap meal.
• Charcuterie Boards – A colorful addition that enhances your cheese and meat selections.

At Family Gatherings

• Potlucks – Always a hit at potluck gatherings where everyone can enjoy its classic taste.
• Buffets – Offers guests an easy, tasty side option among various dishes.

How to Perfect Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad

To achieve the best results with Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad, follow these helpful tips. They ensure your dish stands out and tastes amazing every time.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh potatoes, crisp celery, and vibrant onions will enhance the salad’s flavor and texture.
• Chill before serving – Refrigerating the salad for at least an hour allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste before serving; adding more salt or pepper can elevate the dish further.
• Experiment with mustard – Different types of mustard can change the flavor profile; try Dijon for added zest.
• Add herbs – Fresh dill or parsley can introduce a delightful freshness and color to your salad.

Best Side Dishes for Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad

When planning your meal, consider complementary side dishes that pair well with Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad. These options enhance your dining experience while keeping things balanced and delicious.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet, smoky flavors from grilling add perfect contrast to creamy potato salad.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw provides texture and tanginess that complements the salad nicely.
3. Baked Beans – Rich and savory beans are an excellent pairing for summer barbecues.
4. Deviled Eggs – Enhance the egg flavor in the potato salad by serving these classic appetizers alongside it.
5. Fruit Salad – A light, refreshing fruit mix offers a sweet contrast to savory dishes.
6. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread adds another layer of flavor while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using too much mayo: Adding excessive mayonnaise can overwhelm the flavors. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to your taste.
• Not cooling the potatoes properly: If you don’t let the potatoes cool, they may turn mushy when mixed. Allow them to reach room temperature before combining with other ingredients.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste testing is crucial! Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper after mixing in the dressing for optimal flavor.
• Overcooking the potatoes: Cooking them too long makes them fall apart. Boil until fork-tender, but not mushy for the perfect texture.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using old or wilted vegetables can affect taste. Always use fresh ingredients for the best potato salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.
• Keep it in the main compartment of the fridge, not in the door, to maintain a consistent temperature.
• If possible, separate dressing from potatoes if storing for longer, then mix before serving.

Freezing Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad

• It’s generally not recommended to freeze potato salad as it can change texture upon thawing.
• However, if necessary, place in a freezer-safe container and keep for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) stirring between each until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat while stirring frequently. Add a splash of mayo if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad spicier?

You can add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give it some heat. Experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for added flavor.

Can I substitute ingredients in Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad?

Absolutely! You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or add ingredients like pickles or radishes for different flavors and textures.

How long does Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad last in the fridge?

Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad will last for about 3-5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

What should I serve with Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad?

This potato salad pairs well with burgers, hotdogs, ribs, or any grilled meats. It’s a versatile side dish for any barbecue.

Final Thoughts

Aunt Penny’s Potato Salad is a classic recipe that brings comfort and joy to any gathering. Its creamy texture combined with crunchy veggies makes it a delightful side dish. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting seasonings. Give this recipe a try at your next barbecue—you’ll love how easy and delicious it is!