Hold the mayo: A potato salad recipe thats perfect for picnics

Published: Friday, August 8, 2025 at 8:30 pm

Picnic-Ready Potato Salad: A Refreshing Summer Staple

Potato salad, a quintessential summer dish, is a versatile creation, with variations as diverse as its makers. This recipe offers a refreshing alternative to traditional mayonnaise-based versions, perfect for outdoor gatherings. The key to a successful potato salad lies in a few fundamental steps.

The recipe emphasizes the importance of selecting the right potatoes. Waxy varieties like fingerling, Yukon gold, or mixed baby potatoes are recommended for their ability to hold their shape during cooking. Russet potatoes, known for their floury texture, are best avoided. Potatoes should be cut to a uniform size before cooking to ensure even doneness.

The cooking process involves boiling the potatoes in heavily salted water, similar to the salinity of the sea. This allows the potatoes to absorb salt early on. The potatoes should be cooked until tender but not mushy, typically around 10 minutes. Once cooked, the potatoes are drained and tossed with vinegar while still hot to absorb the tangy flavor.

The dressing is a sharp vinaigrette, made with white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and extra-virgin olive oil. Once the potatoes have cooled, the vinaigrette is added generously, followed by green onions, olives, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, spinach, basil, and parsley. Seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes is crucial for balancing the flavors. The salad should be made in advance, allowing the flavors to meld for at least an hour, or even overnight in the refrigerator.

BNN's Perspective: This recipe provides a welcome lighter take on a classic summer dish. The focus on fresh ingredients and a bright vinaigrette offers a healthier and potentially more appealing option for those seeking to avoid heavy mayonnaise-based salads. The emphasis on preparation and allowing flavors to develop highlights the importance of mindful cooking.

Keywords: potato salad, picnic recipe, summer salad, vinaigrette, waxy potatoes, easy recipe, no mayo, fresh ingredients, potato salad recipe, summer food

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