This Easy Creole Potato Salad is a tasty twist on a classic favorite! With creamy potatoes, crunchy celery, and a zesty kick, it’s full of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
I love making this salad for barbecues; it pairs perfectly with grilled meats! Plus, it’s super easy—just boil, mix, and chill. Who doesn’t want a delicious dish that’s so simple? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Potatoes: Red potatoes are my go-to because they have a creamy texture and hold their shape well. If you can’t find them, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great substitute. They also offer a nice buttery flavor!
Hard-Boiled Eggs: These add creaminess and protein. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can use mashed avocado instead for richness, or skip them altogether!
Creole Mustard: This mustard gives the salad a little kick. If you don’t have it, you can use spicy brown mustard or even yellow mustard for a milder taste, but the flavor will change a bit.
Creole Seasoning: This blend adds depth. If you don’t have it, mix equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper as a substitute.
How Do I Boil Potatoes for Perfect Texture?
Boiling potatoes correctly can be tricky! To ensure they’re tender but not mushy, follow these steps:
- Start with cold water: Place potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water. This helps them cook evenly.
- Add salt: Season the water with a good pinch of salt. It flavors the potatoes and aids in cooking.
- Keep an eye on the time: Boil for 12-15 minutes. Test by poking them with a fork; they should be tender but still hold their shape.
- Drain but don’t rinse: After draining, let them cool slightly. This lets them absorb flavors later.
Easy Creole Potato Salad Recipe with Classic Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 pounds red potatoes, washed and cut into bite-sized chunks
- 3 large hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
- 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dill pickle relish
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Creole mustard (or spicy brown mustard)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creole Potato Salad will take about 30 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 2 hours to chill in the refrigerator. That means you’ll have around 2 hours and 30 minutes from start to finish before serving this flavorful dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Potatoes:
Place the cut potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt for flavor, then bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook the potatoes for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender but still firm enough to hold their shape. Once done, drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Veggies and Eggs:
While the potatoes are cooking, chop the hard-boiled eggs, celery, and red onion into small pieces. Set these aside as we’ll be mixing them into the salad later.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Creole mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, Creole seasoning, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until you have a smooth dressing.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Take the warm potatoes and add them to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss the potatoes to coat them evenly with the dressing—this helps the potatoes soak up all those yummy flavors!
5. Add the Extras:
Now it’s time to fold in the chopped eggs, celery, red onion, and dill pickle relish. Be careful to mix it gently so you don’t break up the potatoes too much.
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the potato salad in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling time lets all the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, give the potato salad a gentle stir and garnish it with freshly chopped parsley. You can also sprinkle a little more paprika on top for flair! Serve it cold and enjoy this classic dish that’s perfect for any gathering!
FAQ for Easy Creole Potato Salad
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While red potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can use Yukon Gold or even new potatoes. Just make sure they’re cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Potato Salad?
You can store leftover Creole potato salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as it may thicken up while chilling.
Can I Make This Potato Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative or use mashed avocado for creaminess. You can skip the hard-boiled eggs as well or replace them with diced tofu for protein.
What Should I Pair This Potato Salad With?
This Creole potato salad is versatile! It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or as part of a picnic spread. You can also serve it alongside BBQ dishes or enjoy it on its own for a light lunch!
