If you're a fan of delicious and easy-to-make side dishes, you'll love old fashioned potato salad. Made with a few simple ingredients and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, and family dinners. With only 180 calories in a 1/2 cup serving, you can enjoy this classic comfort food without any guilt.

To make old fashioned potato salad, you'll need boiled potatoes, eggs, onion, celery, and mayo. While it might not be the healthiest side dish, it's definitely one of the tastiest. And if you're looking for some nutritional information, a 1/2 cup serving of potato salad contains 19 grams of carbs, 2 grams of protein, and 10 grams of fat.

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of potatoes, some different variations of potato salad, and how to make this classic dish at home.

Ingredients and Nutrition Facts

To make old fashioned potato salad, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs. red potatoes, boiled and chopped
• 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup mayo
• 1 tbsp. dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

Keep in mind that the nutritional information for this recipe can vary depending on the ingredients you use. The information below is based on the ingredients listed above:

Calories in Potato Salad

A 1/2 cup serving of old fashioned potato salad contains around 180 calories. However, the exact number of calories can vary depending on the ingredients used. If you're looking to reduce the calorie count of your potato salad, you can try using low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt instead of regular mayo. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes to bulk up the dish without adding too many calories.

The Benefits of Potatoes

Potatoes often get a bad rap for being high in carbs and calories. However, they're actually quite nutritious and can be a great addition to a healthy diet. For starters, potatoes are rich in vitamin C, which helps support a healthy immune system. They're also a good source of potassium, which can help lower blood pressure and support heart health. In addition, potatoes contain fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied after eating.

Potato Salad as a Side Dish

Potato salad is a classic side dish that's perfect for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. It pairs well with a variety of main dishes, from grilled chicken to burgers to hot dogs. One thing to keep in mind is that potato salad can be quite heavy and calorie-dense. To balance out the meal, try pairing it with some lighter sides like fresh fruit or a green salad. You can also try making a healthier version of potato salad by using low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt, and adding more veggies to the dish.

Traditional Potato Salad Recipe

To make traditional old fashioned potato salad, follow these simple steps:

1. Boil 2 lbs. of red potatoes until they're tender. Drain and chop into bite-sized pieces.
2. Add 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped onion, and chopped celery to the potatoes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of mayo, 1 tbsp. dijon mustard, 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/2 tsp. black pepper.
4. Pour the mayo mixture over the potato mixture and mix well to combine.
5. Cover and chill the potato salad in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving.

Potato Salad Variations

While traditional potato salad is delicious, there are many different variations you can try to mix things up. Here are a few ideas:

• Add bacon for a smoky, salty kick.
• Try using sweet potatoes for a unique twist on the classic dish.
• Make a German-style potato salad with a tangy vinegar and bacon dressing.
• Add some heat with chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.

Making Potato Salad at Home

Making potato salad at home is easy and affordable. You can adjust the recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences, and you can make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. When making potato salad, it's important to handle the ingredients carefully to avoid foodborne illness. Be sure to wash your hands before and after handling raw eggs and potatoes, and keep the salad refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

How to Store Potato Salad

If you have leftover potato salad, you can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to prevent other foods from absorbing its flavor. It's important to note that potato salad should always be kept cold to prevent the growth of bacteria. If you're serving the dish at a picnic or outdoor event, be sure to keep it on ice and discard any leftovers that have been sitting at room temperature for more than a few hours.

Health Concerns and Potato Salad

Potato salad is a tasty and comforting side dish, but it's not the healthiest option out there. In addition to being high in calories and fat, it can also be high in sodium and cholesterol depending on the ingredients used. If you're trying to eat a healthier diet, you can still enjoy potato salad in moderation. Try making a lighter version with low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt, and add plenty of veggies to the dish to bulk it up without adding too many calories.

Potato Salad Serving Suggestions

Here are a few ways to enjoy old fashioned potato salad:

• Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or burgers.
• Top with crumbled bacon and chopped chives for added flavor.
• Make a sandwich with leftover potato salad, sliced ham or turkey, and lettuce.
• Try adding some diced avocado for a creamy, nutritious twist on the classic dish.