Potato salad is one of those dishes everyone thinks they’ve mastered… until you start making Ina’s versions back to back and realize how much range there actually is. Creamy, herby, vinaigrette-heavy, lobster-loaded – some are instant classics, some surprised me, and a few I’d tweak next time. Here’s how they stack up.
1. Old-Fashioned Potato Salad – Barefoot Contessa at Home, page 86 (Recipe)
Also known as “Best Potato Salad” on Food Network, and I couldn’t agree more. This is the classic for a reason. It’s simple, balanced, and a total crowd-pleaser. The buttermilk makes it extra creamy without feeling heavy, and the dill is non-negotiable. This is also where Ina drilled into me: dress the potatoes while they’re still warm so they actually absorb the flavor. It’s a total game changer.
2. Lobster & Potato Salad – Barefoot Contessa: Foolproof, page 98 (Recipe)
I’m usually not reaching for a vinaigrette-based potato salad, but this one works. It lets the lobster shine instead of drowning it in mayo. This feels special without being fussy, and easily works as a main.
3. Tarragon Potato Salad – How Easy Is That? , page 112 (Recipe)
This is a pretty straightforward recipe, but the tarragon gives it just enough edge to feel different. Fresh, slightly unexpected, and worth making. Also, I say skip peeling the potatoes – it’s a pain for not much gain!
4. Sandy’s Potato Salad – Food Network (Recipe)
This is the one that tastes like every backyard cookout in the best way. Classic, nostalgic, no surprises. If you want that traditional deli-style potato salad, this is it.
5. Potato Salad a la Julia Child – Go-To Dinners, page 116 (Recipe not online)
Supremely creamy rendition thanks to a tip from Julia Child.
6. Provençal Potato Salad – The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook, page 98 (Recipe not online)
As I mentioned, I’m not a huge fan of vinegar-based potato salads, but Ina loads this one up with haricot verts, tuna, capers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, olives and eggs. It reminded me of a dish my grandma made for me when I was growing up.
7. French Potato Salad – The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook, page 96 (Recipe)
So I don’t have a photo of just the French Potato Salad as it’s the base for the Provencal Potato Salad above. I did try it before adding all the other goodies in and it didn’t thrill me. Might be one I need to revisit!
More Best of Ina here.
