Dive Into Tradition: A Southern 'Tater Salad Recipe for All Occasions!

Photo byAngie Bright

There’s something about a Southern ‘Tater Salad that brings a sense of comfort to any table. This iconic dish is a staple of Southern gatherings, from family picnics to church potlucks. The creamy, tangy flavors of mayonnaise and mustard mixed with tender potatoes make this recipe a go-to side dish across the South. It’s simple but rich in flavor, and like many Southern dishes, everyone has their own twist on it. Whether you grew up enjoying it at barbecues or are just discovering it, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.

A Southern ‘Tater Salad is more than just a side; it’s a tradition that connects generations. Potatoes, eggs, and a mix of condiments like mustard and pickle relish are blended to create a creamy salad that packs a punch with every bite. This dish embodies Southern hospitality, offering a taste of home and warmth with each spoonful. Whether served alongside fried chicken, ribs, or grilled burgers, ‘Tater Salad always feels like a necessary part of any Southern meal.

The Recipe: Southern ‘Tater Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
• 7 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 1 cup salad spread or mayonnaise
• 1 1/2 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 4 tablespoons sweet pickle relish & juice
• A small amount of finely chopped onion
• Salt, pepper, and sugar to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil the Eggs: Place the eggs in a pan and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil, then let them cook until they are hard-boiled. Peel and chop them once cooled.
2. Cook the Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Cover them with water in a large pot and bring to a boil. Cook for about 25 minutes, uncovered, or until the potatoes are tender but not mushy. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to avoid crumbling when mixing.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the salad spread or mayonnaise, mustard, pickle relish, and chopped onions. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar to taste. For extra flavor, you can also add optional ingredients like celery powder, paprika, or chopped bell pepper.
4. Combine and Serve: Once the potatoes are cool, gently mix them with the prepared dressing. Add the chopped eggs and stir everything together gently to maintain the texture of the potatoes. Refrigerate for a bit to let the flavors meld, or serve immediately if you prefer it warm.

The Perfect Accompaniment to Any Meal

This Southern ‘Tater Salad pairs perfectly with almost any Southern-style dish. It’s an essential at any barbecue, offering a creamy contrast to the smoky flavors of grilled meats. The tangy bite of mustard and pickle relish, combined with the hearty texture of potatoes, makes it both refreshing and satisfying. Some people like to personalize the recipe further, adding crunchy vegetables like celery or bell peppers, or topping it with paprika for a pop of color. However you choose to make it, this dish is guaranteed to bring a taste of the South to your table.

Beyond its versatility, this dish is cherished for how easily it brings people together. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a holiday feast, this Southern ‘Tater Salad is the kind of dish that encourages sharing and enjoying good company. Its simplicity makes it accessible for any home cook, and the balance of flavors makes it stand out as a timeless classic.

1. Southern Bite offers a classic Southern potato salad recipe, focusing on the basics like russet potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and relish, with optional add-ins like celery and paprika to enhance the flavor​Southern Bite.
2. Southern Living describes a quintessential Southern-style potato salad, with ingredients such as Russet potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and a blend of mayonnaise and mustard. This recipe emphasizes the importance of adding ingredients like sweet pickle relish and celery for texture​Southern Living​Southern Living.
3. I Heart Recipes provides a soul food version of Southern potato salad, featuring both dill and sweet relish, celery, onion, and pickle juice for a flavorful balance. It also includes some seasoning options like garlic powder and paprika​I Heart Recipes.
4. Allrecipes highlights a variation that incorporates garlic and mustard along with the traditional mayonnaise and relish. This recipe ensures a balance of creaminess and tang with ingredients like celery and hard-boiled eggs​Allrecipes.

These sources will give you a comprehensive view of different Southern potato salad variations, allowing you to find the perfect recipe or tweak one to your liking.