This Spicy Ingredient Will Revolutionize Your Potato Salad

Potato salad is that classic dish that makes us think of simple backyard barbecues or those relaxing seaside picnics that are too far and few between. What is it about those boiled, waxy-skinned potatoes, mixed with mayo or mustard, bacon, chives, perhaps a bit of dill, and throw in some finely chopped carrots and celery for texture, that get our taste buds going? If you are a fan of this favored summertime food, then you know what we mean. According to NPR we have German immigrants to thank for those first written recipes that detailed this starchy, vinegary dish making its way to American shores. 

What about that creamy version of this staple? NPR notes that mayo in potato salad is actually a relatively new development that arrived with the advent of commercial mayonnaise in the 19th century. But NPR also relates that the real beauty of potato salad is that you can put your own style stamp on this dish. Whether you opt for one with Asian flavors that taste and smell of lemongrass, or go for more of an Italian take on this traditional recipe, you were bound to come up with a delicious salad. But if you really want to revolutionize this dish, there is one ingredient that will not only spice it up, but will put a whole new spin on your potato salad. 

According to Readers Digest, if you want to bring a little nose-clearing heat to your next gathering, add some prepared horseradish sauce to your potato salad. Per The Spruce Eats, horseradish is a root vegetable that is part of the wasabi and mustard family that can ignite a fiesta of fireworks on your tongue with each bite. It is often used to make sauces and dressings and can up the game of many recipes, especially potato salad. 

Prepared horseradish sauce is generally made with grated horseradish, vinegar, and salt, and can add just the right amount of zest and spice to your potato salad. Some people prefer to make their own, to maintain that zingy horseradish taste that can be watered down when purchased already prepared. However, The Spruce Eats warns that if you do use fresh horseradish to make your own, you may want to open a window, because the smell can be overpowering and can take over every crevice of your kitchen.

But don't let that scare you. If you need some inspiration, check out Valerie Bertinelli's horseradish potato salad recipe on the Food Network website, and don't be afraid to play away round with your ingredients. Creating your own signature potato salad recipe is part of the fun of making this dish.