Mrs. Cates Potato Salad

Prep: 30 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Creamy and flavorful potato salad with crunchy celery, tangy pickles, and a hint of sweetness, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 5 lb. potatoes
  • 1 large onion
  • small jar sweet gherkin pickles
  • 2 Tbsp. sugar
  • 5 ribs celery
  • 1 pt. Dukes mayonnaise
  • salt

Instructions

  1. Boil potatoes in jackets until tender.
  2. Run cold water over potatoes and peel.
  3. Cut potatoes into small cubes.
  4. Add chopped celery, pickles, and onion.
  5. Add mayonnaise, a little pickle juice, and sugar.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Place in a bowl and cover, then refrigerate overnight or for several hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For the best texture, choose starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. If you're short on time, consider using pre-cooked or canned potatoes, though fresh is ideal. For a tangy twist, substitute the sweet gherkin pickles with dill pickles or add a splash of vinegar. You can also enhance flavor by mixing in some fresh herbs or using My Favorite Salad Dressing instead of mayonnaise.

Serving Suggestions

This potato salad is perfect for summer barbecues and pairs beautifully with grilled meats or sandwiches. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a complete meal. For a fun dessert, follow up with Apple Crumb Squares to round out the meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover potato salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing as it can change the consistency. If you need to reheat it, gently warm it in a microwave, stirring occasionally, but be careful not to overheat as it can make the potatoes mushy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mrs. Cates Potato Salad contains roughly 1646 calories, with 18g protein, 174g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (97% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 768mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).

1646 kcal 82% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 18.4g 37% DV
Total Fat 98.6g 100% DV
Carbs 173.6g 63% DV
Fiber 16.4g 58% DV
Sugar 2.4g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 767.9mg 33% DV
Potassium 4552mg 97% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 16.3mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 68.4mg 76% DV
Calcium 84.4mg 6% DV
Iron 3.8mg 21% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this potato salad ahead of time?

Yes, this potato salad tastes even better after chilling in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a great option for parties or picnics.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

If you're looking for a lighter option or a vegan alternative, consider using Greek yogurt or a plant-based mayo. These substitutions will still provide creaminess while reducing calories or accommodating dietary preferences.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add some heat to your potato salad, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Additionally, you can sprinkle some cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor that complements the dish well.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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