Potato salad – the quintessential summer side dish that’s a staple at barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. While making potato salad from scratch can be a labor of love, sometimes it’s just easier to buy it pre-made from the store. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled this comprehensive guide to help you find the best potato salad to buy.
The Rise of Store-Bought Potato Salad
In recent years, the popularity of store-bought potato salad has skyrocketed. According to a survey by the National Potato Board, 63% of Americans prefer to buy pre-made potato salad instead of making it from scratch. This trend can be attributed to the increasing demand for convenience foods that are quick, easy, and affordable.
What to Look for in a Store-Bought Potato Salad
When selecting a store-bought potato salad, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key things to look for:
Ingredients: Check the ingredient list to ensure it’s made with wholesome ingredients such as potatoes, mayonnaise, and spices. Avoid potato salads with artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors.
Taste and Texture: Opt for a potato salad with a creamy, tangy flavor and a firm, yet tender texture.
Convenience: Consider the packaging and storage requirements. Look for potato salads that are easy to transport, store, and serve.
Price: Set a budget and stick to it. Store-bought potato salads can range from a few dollars to over $10, depending on the quality and quantity.
Types of Potato Salad
Before we dive into our top picks, it’s essential to understand the different types of potato salad available in stores. Here are some common varieties:
- Classic potato salad: Made with diced potatoes, mayonnaise, and spices, this is the most traditional type of potato salad.
- Dill pickle potato salad: Infused with the tangy flavor of dill pickles, this variety adds a unique twist to the classic recipe.
- Bacon ranch potato salad: For a smoky, savory flavor, look for potato salads with crispy bacon and ranch seasoning.
- Vegan potato salad: Made with plant-based mayonnaise and dairy-free milk, this option is perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
<h2OUR Top Picks for the Best Potato Salad to Buy
After exhaustively researching and tasting various store-bought potato salads, we’ve narrowed down our top picks to the following:
1. Ore-Ida Potato Salad
Ore-Ida’s potato salad is a classic take on the traditional recipe. Made with diced potatoes, mayonnaise, and a hint of mustard, this potato salad is creamy, tangy, and utterly delicious. It’s also affordable, priced around $3-$4 per container.
2. Reser’s Fine Foods Potato Salad
Reser’s Fine Foods offers a range of potato salad flavors, including a classic, dill pickle, and bacon ranch option. Their potato salads are made with high-quality ingredients and have a firm, yet tender texture. Expect to pay around $5-$7 per container.
3. Costco’s Kirkland Signature Potato Salad
If you’re looking for a bulk option, Costco’s Kirkland Signature potato salad is an excellent choice. This 5-pound container is perfect for large gatherings or events and is priced around $15-$20.
4. Walmart’s Great Value Potato Salad
For an affordable option, Walmart’s Great Value potato salad is a great choice. Made with a simple recipe of potatoes, mayonnaise, and spices, this potato salad is a great alternative to homemade. It’s priced around $2-$3 per container.
5. Whole Foods Market’s 365 Everyday Value Potato Salad
If you’re looking for an organic or natural option, Whole Foods Market’s 365 Everyday Value potato salad is a great choice. Made with non-GMO potatoes and natural mayonnaise, this potato salad is a healthier alternative to traditional options. Expect to pay around $5-$7 per container.
Tips for Serving Store-Bought Potato Salad
To elevate your store-bought potato salad, follow these simple tips:
Add Some Fresh Herbs
Chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives add a bright, fresh flavor to store-bought potato salad.
Mix in Some Crunch
Add some crunch by mixing in chopped nuts, seeds, or crispy bacon bits.
Serve at Room Temperature
For the best flavor and texture, serve store-bought potato salad at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld together and the potatoes to retain their firmness.
Get Creative with Toppings
Add some personality to your potato salad by topping it with diced onions, hard-boiled eggs, or grated cheese.
Conclusion
Buying store-bought potato salad can be a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this summer staple. By considering the ingredients, taste, texture, and price, you can find the perfect potato salad for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a classic, dill pickle, or bacon ranch flavor, our top picks have got you covered. So go ahead, grab a container, and enjoy the perfect side dish for your next gathering or event!
What makes a great potato salad?
A great potato salad is one that perfectly balances the flavors and textures of its ingredients. It should have a creamy dressing that complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes, along with some crunchy elements like onions or hard-boiled eggs to add depth. The potatoes themselves should be cooked to a perfect doneness, neither too hard nor too soft.
Ultimately, a great potato salad is one that is made with love and care, using high-quality ingredients and a attention to detail. Whether you’re making it from scratch or buying it from a store, a great potato salad should be a crowd-pleaser that leaves you wanting more.
What are the key ingredients in a classic potato salad?
The key ingredients in a classic potato salad typically include boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, onions, and hard-boiled eggs. Some recipes may also include diced pickles, capers, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill. The ingredients are usually mixed together with a creamy dressing made from the mayonnaise and mustard, and then seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes paprika.
The quality of the ingredients can make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the potato salad. For example, using farm-fresh potatoes and high-quality mayonnaise can give the salad a richer, more complex flavor. Similarly, using freshly chopped herbs can add a bright, freshness to the dish.
What are some popular variations of potato salad?
There are many popular variations of potato salad, each with its own unique flavors and ingredients. Some common variations include German-style potato salad, which is made with bacon and vinegar; mustard-based potato salad, which is popular in the Southern United States; and dill pickle potato salad, which adds a tangy, salty flavor to the classic recipe.
Other variations may include adding different vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or chopped celery, or using different types of potatoes, like sweet potatoes or Yukon golds. Some recipes may also use alternative ingredients, like Greek yogurt or sour cream, to give the salad a lighter, more refreshing flavor.
Can I make potato salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make potato salad ahead of time, but it’s usually best to make it no more than a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld together and the potatoes to absorb the dressing, but it also prevents the salad from becoming soggy or bland.
If you’re making potato salad ahead of time, it’s a good idea to keep it refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below to prevent bacterial growth. You can also make the individual components of the salad, like the cooked potatoes and chopped onions, ahead of time and then assemble the salad just before serving.
How do I store leftover potato salad?
Leftover potato salad should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It’s best to consume it within 3 to 5 days of making it, although it may last longer if stored properly.
When storing leftover potato salad, make sure to press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad to prevent it from drying out. You can also add a layer of parchment paper on top of the plastic wrap to help keep the salad fresh.
Can I freeze potato salad?
While it’s technically possible to freeze potato salad, it’s not usually the best idea. The mayonnaise in the salad can separate and become watery when thawed, and the potatoes can become mushy and unappetizing.
If you do need to freeze potato salad, it’s best to do so before adding the mayonnaise or other creamy ingredients. You can then thaw the frozen salad and add the dressing just before serving. However, even in this case, the texture and flavor of the salad may not be as good as when it was first made.
What are some popular brands of store-bought potato salad?
There are many popular brands of store-bought potato salad, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Some common brands include Reser’s, Mrs. Gerry’s, and Trader Joe’s.
These brands offer a range of different styles and flavors, from classic creamy potato salad to more innovative recipes with added ingredients like bacon or chipotle peppers. Some brands may also offer organic or gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions.