What's a picnic without potato salad?

A picnic, that's what it is. However, if you're going to go the fried chicken route, potato salad is a natural for that old fashioned picnic basket. Of course, you need an old fashioned potato salad to go with it, something that keeps well, and has a unique zip that more modern recipes lack.

In the name of time, modern recipes no longer marinate the potatoes and other ingredients the night before. Try this method, it makes a really special salad, something that could be found at a 1930's Ladies Auxiliary picnic, pridefully served by the finest cook.

Old Fashioned Potato Salad

Main Salad Ingredients--

6 medium potatoes
6 hard cooked eggs
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup minced sweet onion
1/4 cup chopped sweet or dill pickle, or pickle relish

Cook potatoes in jackets in boiling water until tender (approx 30 minutes). Peel while still warm and combine with other main salad ingredients.

The Magic Marinade
4 tablespoons cooking oil, not olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or tarragon vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Combine in a jar with a tight fitting lid and shake well. Pour over main salad ingredients, toss lightly to coat. Cover and refrigerate overnight to let the potatoes and ingredients absorb the sweet tart flavor.

Right before serving, toss salad with 1/2 cup mayonnaise. I prefer real mayo, but whipped type salad dressings or light mayo also work if you prefer. Sprinkle with paprika and serve.