If you’re searching for a vibrant and comforting side that will steal the show at your next get-together, this Creamy Potato Salad with Eggs, Peas, Carrots, and Spicy Dressing Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, tangy, and with just the right kick of spice, this potato salad brings together tender potatoes, soft-boiled eggs, sweet peas, and carrots coated in a luscious dressing that balances mayonnaise, sour cream, and a bold blend of spices. It’s a warm hug in salad form, made to be shared and savored.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The ingredients themselves are straightforward and familiar, but together they pack a flavorful punch and a beautiful color palette that makes the dish as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
- Potatoes (1 pound): Choose waxy potatoes that hold their shape for that perfect bite without falling apart.
- Salt (2-3 teaspoons per liter): Essential for seasoning the boiling water and bringing out the potatoes’ natural flavors.
- Boiled eggs (2-3): Adds creaminess and protein while boosting richness.
- Peas and carrots (1 cup): Either fresh, frozen, or canned—these bring a nice pop of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Mayonnaise (¼ cup): For creaminess and a smooth base for the dressing.
- Sour cream (¼ cup): Adds tanginess and a silky texture that brightens the salad.
- Heinz salad dressing (¼ cup): This vendor-favorite adds sweetness and a vinegary edge that’s key to balancing flavors.
- Yellow mustard (½ teaspoon): Brings subtle sharpness, but Dijon can be used for an extra zing.
- Smoked paprika (¼ teaspoon): Gives a hint of smoky warmth without overpowering the salad.
- Creole seasoning (½ teaspoon): A spice blend that adds a playful spice and depth.
- Sweet pickle relish (¼ cup): Adds crunch and a sweet-tangy note that keeps every bite exciting.
- Diced onions (¼ cup): Provides crunchy texture and sharpness to contrast the creaminess.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): For final seasoning and seasoning balance.
How to Make Creamy Potato Salad with Eggs, Peas, Carrots, and Spicy Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into bite-sized chunks. Place them in a pot of salted boiling water—crucial for seasoning inside and out—and cook for about 5 to 10 minutes. The key is to get them tender but still firm when you poke them with a fork; overcooked potatoes will turn mushy and blend undesirably with the dressing. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and transfer them to a large bowl to start cooling.
Step 2: Add the Eggs, Peas, and Carrots
Chop the boiled eggs into small, manageable pieces that’ll melt nicely into the potato chunks. Add these along with your peas and carrots to the potatoes. The tender vegetables provide sweetness and a pop of color while making this a hearty and wholesome salad.
Step 3: Mix the Spicy Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Heinz salad dressing, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, and Creole seasoning. Stir in the sweet pickle relish and diced onions. This combination forms the soul of the dish, balancing creamy, tangy, sweet, and spicy notes to perfection.
Step 4: Combine and Chill
Gently fold the dressing into the potato mixture, careful not to mash the potatoes but ensuring everything is evenly coated. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour—this is when the flavors meld beautifully, giving you that authentic Creamy Potato Salad with Eggs, Peas, Carrots, and Spicy Dressing Recipe experience.
How to Serve Creamy Potato Salad with Eggs, Peas, Carrots, and Spicy Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and add even more flavor layers, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the salad right before serving. A dusting of paprika or a few crunchy pickle slices can add a lovely visual and flavor boost as well.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like barbecue chicken, sausages, or ribs. It also complements lighter fare such as sandwiches and deli meats perfectly, making it a versatile companion to many meals.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salad in individual glass jars for picnics or parties for a charming, portable touch. Or plate it on a bed of crunchy lettuce leaves to add texture and freshness on the side. Its vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece on any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Potato Salad with Eggs, Peas, Carrots, and Spicy Dressing Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only improve with a little time, but the texture is best enjoyed within a couple of days to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
Because of the creamy dressing and boiled eggs, this salad is not suitable for freezing. The texture of potatoes and eggs can degrade and separate upon thawing, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
This potato salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. Simply let it sit out for a few minutes if it’s been refrigerated and you want to soften the chill before serving.
FAQs
Can I use different vegetables instead of peas and carrots?
Absolutely! Green beans, corn, or diced bell peppers can all add great color and texture. Just adjust cooking times if you’re using fresh veggies that need softening.
What can I substitute for Heinz salad dressing?
If you don’t have Heinz salad dressing, you can use a mild vinaigrette or a combination of ketchup and vinegar for a similar sweet and tangy flavor.
Is there a dairy-free version of this potato salad?
Yes! Replace mayonnaise and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like vegan mayo and coconut yogurt, and you’ll still get a creamy consistency with plenty of flavor.
How spicy is this salad? Can I adjust the heat?
The spice level is moderate thanks to the Creole seasoning and smoked paprika, but you can tone it down or amp it up by adjusting these spices according to your preference.
Can this salad be made vegan?
To make a vegan version, omit the eggs and swap mayo and sour cream for plant-based alternatives. You might also want to add chickpeas or tofu for extra protein.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Potato Salad with Eggs, Peas, Carrots, and Spicy Dressing Recipe is a timeless classic with a delicious twist that makes every bite feel special. Whether you’re bringing it to a picnic, serving it at a family dinner, or just craving something satisfying and comforting, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites. Don’t hesitate—give it a try and watch it become the star of your table!
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Creamy Potato Salad with Eggs, Peas, Carrots, and Spicy Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A classic and creamy potato salad featuring tender boiled potatoes, peas and carrots, chopped boiled eggs, and a zesty dressing made with mayonnaise, sour cream, Heinz salad dressing, yellow mustard, and flavorful spices. Perfect as a side dish for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Vegetables
- 1 pound (450g) potatoes
- Water (to cover for boiling the potatoes)
- Salt (2-3 teaspoons per liter or quart of water, for boiling)
- 2–3 boiled eggs
- 1 cup (140g) peas and carrots (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Dressing
- ¼ cup (60g) mayonnaise
- ¼ cup (60g) sour cream
- ¼ cup (60g) Heinz salad dressing
- ½ teaspoon (2-3g) yellow mustard (Dijon mustard works as well)
- ¼ teaspoon (1g) smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon (2g) Creole seasoning
- ¼ cup (60g) sweet pickle relish
- ¼ cup (32g) diced onions
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the potatoes and cook until tender but still firm to the touch, about 5-10 minutes. Drain the water and transfer the potatoes to a large bowl.
- Add Eggs and Vegetables: Chop the boiled eggs finely, then add them along with the peas and carrots to the bowl with the potatoes.
- Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Heinz salad dressing, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, Creole seasoning, sweet pickle relish, and diced onions. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to create a well-blended dressing.
- Combine Salad and Dressing: Gently fold the dressing into the potato, egg, and vegetable mixture until everything is thoroughly coated. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper as needed. Refrigerate the potato salad until ready to serve.
Notes
- Boil potatoes just until tender to keep a firmer texture in the salad.
- You can use fresh, frozen, or canned peas and carrots depending on availability.
- Adjust the amount of mustard and Creole seasoning to suit your taste preference for spiciness.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- This salad is best served chilled and consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
