Jack’s Potato Salad

Name: Jack’s Potato Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 pounds new red potatoes; 1 cup mayonnaise; 6 uncooked eggs; 3 tablespoons white vinegar; 1½ tablespoons cider vinegar; ¼ cup sugar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 2 teaspoons celery salt

Recipe By:

Alexandra

Posted:

May 25, 2025

Updated:

May 25, 2025

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This is Jack’s Potato Salad, a delightful dish that brings together creamy textures and vibrant flavors. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings, this recipe stands out with its unique blend of ingredients. The combination of fresh potatoes, sweet onions, and savory seasonings makes it a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive in and discover why this potato salad will become your go-to recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredibly Flavorful: The mix of mayonnaise, mustard, and vinegars creates a rich taste that enhances the potatoes beautifully.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this salad quickly.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a holiday feast, Jack’s Potato Salad fits right in.
Great for Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it easy to enjoy the next day.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like herbs or veggies for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make Jack’s Potato Salad successfully, having the right tools is essential. Below are the tools you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Medium pot
Slotted spoon
Cutting board
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Ideal for boiling the potatoes evenly without crowding them.
Slotted spoon: Helps in removing eggs and potatoes without breaking them.
Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

This really IS one of the best potato salad recipes ever!

Ingredients:
– 5 pounds new red potatoes, skin left on
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 6 room-temperature uncooked eggs
– 3 tablespoons white vinegar, divided
– 1 ½ tablespoons cider vinegar
– 1 cup finely minced sweet onion
– 2 teaspoons celery salt
– 1 teaspoon white pepper
– 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
– ¼ cup white sugar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 3 cups mayonnaise (we recommend Hellmann’s or homemade)
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/3 cup canola oil

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Jack’s Potato Salad

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Place washed unpeeled potatoes in a large pot and cover with water to about 6 inches above potatoes. Add one tablespoon salt and bring to a boil. Reduce to a medium boil and cook for about 30 to 40 minutes. Check doneness by pricking with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Eggs

While potatoes are cooking, bring a medium pot of water to boil. Add the 1½ tablespoons of white vinegar. Gently add whole eggs using a slotted spoon. Boil rapidly for five minutes. Turn off heat and let sit in hot water for another 15 minutes.

Step 3: Cool and Chop Eggs

Drain the eggs and shake the pan back and forth to crack the shells. Under running water, peel the eggs carefully. Roughly chop them into large pieces and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl, mix the remaining white vinegar, cider vinegar, minced onions, celery salt, white pepper, poppy seeds, sugar, mustard, and mayonnaise. Set aside in the refrigerator.

Step 5: Mix Oils Together

Combine both oils in a measuring cup or small container until well mixed.

Step 6: Cut Potatoes

Once cooked, leave potatoes in hot water briefly before removing them one at a time with a slotted spoon onto your cutting board. Cut into chunks and place into a large bowl.

Step 7: Combine Oil with Potatoes

As you cut each potato into chunks (about one quarter through), pour one-quarter of the mixed oil over them. Gently combine before proceeding with cutting all remaining potatoes.

Step 8: Add Dressing and Eggs

After all potatoes are cut and oiled, add the dressing mixture from earlier into the bowl with hot oiled potatoes. Mix gently but thoroughly before adding chopped eggs; fold them in gently.

Step 9: Chill Before Serving

Spread content onto a sheet pan evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until chilled below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. After cooling sufficiently, transfer potato salad into your serving container.

Step 10: Serving Tips

If serving outdoors, keep shaded or place ice under your serving bowl to maintain coolness while serving. Store leftovers promptly in the refrigerator after serving.

Enjoy every scoop of Jack’s Potato Salad!

How to Serve Jack’s Potato Salad

Jack’s Potato Salad is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you are hosting a barbecue or a picnic, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

As a Side Dish

Pair it with grilled meats like chicken or burgers for a classic summer feast.
Serve alongside fried fish for a delightful contrast of flavors.

In a Sandwich

Use it as a filling in whole grain bread for a tasty potato salad sandwich.
Spread it on crackers for an easy appetizer option at gatherings.

With Fresh Veggies

Serve Jack’s Potato Salad with crunchy carrot sticks and celery for added texture.
Include cherry tomatoes on the side for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

At Potlucks

Bring it to potlucks in a large bowl and let guests serve themselves.
Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for an eye-catching presentation.

How to Perfect Jack’s Potato Salad

Making Jack’s Potato Salad is simple, but these tips can help you achieve the best results.

Choose the right potatoes: Use new red potatoes for their creamy texture; they hold up well in salads.
Don’t skip the vinegar: Adding vinegar while cooking helps enhance the flavor of the potatoes.
Mix while warm: Combine the oil and potatoes when they are still warm to absorb more flavor.
Chill before serving: Refrigerate after mixing to allow flavors to meld together, enhancing taste.
Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving; add salt or pepper as needed to suit your preference.
Garnish beautifully: Top with fresh herbs or spices right before serving for added freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Jack’s Potato Salad

Jack’s Potato Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some great options to consider.

Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet and smoky, this classic summer side complements the creaminess of potato salad perfectly.
Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of Jack’s Potato Salad.
Baked Beans – The sweetness of baked beans provides a hearty contrast to the savory flavors of the salad.
Deviled Eggs – These classic appetizers echo the egg inclusion in potato salad, creating a cohesive menu theme.
Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad offers refreshing sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory dishes.
Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make for an elegant side that’s easy to prepare and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Jack’s Potato Salad can be easy, but there are common mistakes that many people make. Avoiding these will help you achieve the best results.

Overcooking the potatoes: Boiling potatoes for too long leads to a mushy texture. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness with a fork at the 30-minute mark.
Skipping the oil step: Not adding oil while cutting the potatoes can cause them to become dry. Oil helps keep the potatoes moist and flavorful, so pour it over as you cut.
Not chilling before serving: Serving potato salad warm can diminish its flavor. Always refrigerate until it’s cold; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap mayonnaise or oils can ruin your potato salad’s taste. Opt for high-quality mayonnaise, like Hellmann’s, and fresh oils for the best flavor.
Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Everyone’s taste is different. Don’t hesitate to tweak seasonings like salt, pepper, or mustard according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Jack’s Potato Salad in an airtight container.
It will keep well in the fridge for 3-5 days.
Ensure it is fully chilled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Jack’s Potato Salad

It is not recommended to freeze this potato salad due to its mayonnaise base.
If needed, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, but be aware of texture changes upon thawing.

Reheating Jack’s Potato Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread potato salad in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 30 seconds until warm. Stir occasionally.
Stovetop: Heat gently in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Jack’s Potato Salad special?

Jack’s Potato Salad stands out due to its unique blend of vinegars and oils, which create a delightful flavor profile that elevates traditional recipes.

Can I customize Jack’s Potato Salad?

Yes! You can add ingredients like diced pickles, bell peppers, or herbs to make it your own while maintaining the essence of Jack’s Potato Salad.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe serves approximately 15 people, making it perfect for gatherings or picnics.

Is Jack’s Potato Salad gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients used in Jack’s Potato Salad are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.

How long does it take to prepare Jack’s Potato Salad?

The total time required is about one hour, including prep and cooking time—20 minutes for preparation and around 40 minutes for cooking.

Final Thoughts

Jack’s Potato Salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or a family gathering, this recipe will be a hit! Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for an even more personal touch. Enjoy every bite!