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Potato salad, hot or cold, is a dish that has been around for a very long time. Although there many variations of this recipe, it is quite easy to make. With a few tips and techniques, potato salad recipes will always come out perfect and full of flavor.
The Potatoes
New, also known as baby or small, potatoes are the best choice for this dish. However, if they are not available then boiling potatoes will also be fine. With over 5,000 types of potatoes growing around the world, many people go by size when selecting potatoes for recipes. Also, in international markets the potatoes are generally not labeled with names like "Yukon Gold".
The reason large varieties are not good choices for potato salad is due to the fact that they have more starch, and they tend to fall apart. Using large potatoes will leave any the dish mushy and visually unappealing. Upon placing potatoes in boiling water, always add salt to enhance and bring out the flavor of the potatoes.
The Dressing
Since potatoes absorb more dressing when hot, marinate them in vinegar and olive oil while they are still warm. This is also the time to add other ingredients like mustard or mayonnaise. Once the potatoes have been fully mixed, chill the salad in the refrigerator until it is cooled completely. This will infuse and add a lot of flavor to the dish. If preparing the German style recipe, all ingredients will be added while potatoes are steaming hot so that it can be served warm.
Extra Ingredients
From bacon and onions to sweet relish and boiled eggs, the additions to potato salad are endless. When adding bacon, the drippings of grease can be combined with the vinegar to add a savory flavor. In the southern states of America, cold potato salads are prepared often. Usually mustard or mayonnaise based, these creamy recipes are packed with additions like sweet pickles and boiled eggs. When choosing to add these ingredients, do so once the salad has cooled.
It is important to note that cold potato salad, especially those with mayonnaise, should not be left out in warm weather for more than 2 hours. Left unrefrigerated, the dish can cause food poisoning. By using the above tips and techniques, potato salad recipes will always be simple to prepare. Once you have mastered some basic techniques and sampled a few recipes you can begin experimenting with your own creations and produce new family favorites.
Potato salad is a favorite dish found in cuisines around the world. Hot or cold, mellow or tangy, creamy or chunky, it is the perfect dish for picnics, patio parties, and potlucks. Browse and select a traditional or contemporary potato salad recipe and find a delicious accompaniment to your favorite entrees.