Leon’s Potato Salad isn’t your everyday creamy potato salad. It stands out with a unique twist that gives it a slightly sweet, smooth texture you won’t find in most mayonnaise-based recipes. The secret is in the addition of whipping cream, which adds both creaminess and a subtle sweetness that sets it apart. 🥔🍴
This recipe mixes finely chopped celery, red onion, red bell pepper, and parsley for fresh, crunchy bites throughout. Unlike typical potato salads heavy on mayo, Leon’s uses a combo of Miracle Whip and whipping cream to create a light but flavorful dressing, perfect for those who like their salads creamy but not overpowering.
Fans of classic potato salad will notice that this recipe is both comforting and a bit different—it’s a nod to old Michigan traditions with a straightforward approach that’s easy to follow. If you’ve ever wondered how to make a potato salad that’s creamy, sweet, and fresh all at once, this is the one to try. 😋🥗
Ingredients List & Step-By-Step Instructions For Leon’s Potato Salad Recipe
This recipe is all about creating that creamy, slightly sweet potato salad with a hint of celery and red pepper. The mix of fresh veggies and the special dressing, featuring whipping cream and salad dressing, brings the classic taste to life.
Step 1
Start by washing 2 to 3 lbs of waxy new potatoes (red or fingerling work well). Cover them with cold water in a pan and bring to a boil. Then, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until the potatoes are just fork-tender—don’t overcook or they’ll fall apart. 🍲 Once cool enough to handle, peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Pour ¼ to ⅓ cup of whipping cream over the potatoes and mix gently to keep them creamy. Next, finely chop ¼ to 1/3 red onion, 3 stalks celery, ¼ red bell pepper (or jarred pimentos), and ¼ bunch fresh parsley. Fold these into the potatoes for that crunchy, fresh veggie pop. 🥔🥒🍅
Step 2
Now, the dressing. Set aside about ⅓ cup whipping cream from the original cup. Mix the remaining cream with ½ cup of salad dressing—preferably a Miracle Whip-style dressing for that balance of tang and sweetness. Add 2 tablespoons sugar, 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon ground celery seed, ½ teaspoon whole celery seeds, and a scant ½ teaspoon onion powder. Stir well until everything blends and chill for a few hours. 🥄❄️
This dressing is the secret weapon—it’s not mayonnaise-heavy but creamy and smooth with a touch of sweetness and a celery hit. The cider vinegar brings brightness, and the celery seeds add a subtle earthy crunch.
Step 3
Finally, toss the chopped veggies and cubed potatoes with the chilled dressing. Mix gently so you don’t break up the potatoes. Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow all those flavors to marry perfectly—truly the hardest part is waiting! 🕛
Before serving, give it a gentle stir and, if you want, sprinkle a little paprika or fresh chopped parsley on top for color and a hint of extra flavor. This salad is best served cold and pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a hearty side. Enjoy! 🥗🍴
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| New potatoes (waxy, red or fingerling) | 2 to 3 lbs |
| Whipping cream | 1 cup (divided) |
| Salad dressing (Miracle Whip style) | ½ cup |
| Red onion (finely chopped) | ¼ to 1/3 cup |
| Celery stalks (finely chopped) | 3 stalks |
| Red bell pepper or jarred pimentos (finely chopped) | ¼ cup |
| Fresh parsley (finely chopped) | ¼ bunch |
| Sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Apple cider vinegar | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt (kosher or regular) | ½ teaspoon |
| Onion powder | ½ teaspoon (scant) |
| Ground celery seed | ¼ teaspoon (scant) |
| Whole celery seeds | ½ teaspoon |
Trained in classic French technique but raised on slow-cooked ribs and spicy rubs, she blends culinary skill with smoke and soul.
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