Potato salad for a large gathering: how to avoid running out (or overstocking!)
What To Know
- As a general rule of thumb, aim for about 1 pound of potato salad per 5 guests.
- Leftover potato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add a dash of mustard, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to enhance the flavors.
Planning a party for 50 guests? No gathering is complete without a heaping bowl of creamy, tangy potato salad. But how much should you make to ensure everyone gets their fill without a single spud left behind? Here’s your ultimate guide to calculating the perfect potato salad quantity for 50 guests.
How Much Potato Salad Per Person?
As a general rule of thumb, aim for about 1 pound of potato salad per 5 guests. This generous portion allows for seconds and ensures no one goes hungry. For 50 guests, you’ll need approximately **10 pounds of potato salad**.
Considerations for Portion Size
The actual portion size may vary slightly depending on several factors:
- Appetizer or Side Dish: If potato salad is served as an appetizer, plan for about 1/2 pound per person. As a side dish, 1 pound is more appropriate.
- Other Side Dishes: If you’re serving multiple side dishes, you may want to reduce the potato salad portion to 3/4 pound per person.
- Hunger Levels: Consider the appetites of your guests. If you’re expecting hearty eaters, go for the full 1 pound per person.
Potato Salad Ingredients for 50 Guests
To make 10 pounds of potato salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 10 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Making the Potato Salad
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, drain, and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, mayonnaise, sour cream, celery, onion, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Serving Tips
- Chill it: Serve potato salad chilled for the best flavor and texture.
- Garnish it: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, chives, or bacon bits for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Pair it: Potato salad pairs well with grilled meats, burgers, or hot dogs.
Leftovers and Storage
- Storage: Leftover potato salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Potato salad can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
The Ultimate Potato Salad Experience
With this guide, you’ll have the perfect amount of potato salad for your 50 guests, ensuring a satisfying and memorable dining experience. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a formal gathering, your guests will relish every creamy, tangy bite.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: How can I make my potato salad more flavorful?
A: Add a dash of mustard, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to enhance the flavors.
Q: Can I use other types of potatoes for potato salad?
A: Yes, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes for a different texture and flavor.
Q: What if I don’t have mayonnaise?
A: You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a substitute for mayonnaise.
Q: Can I make potato salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, potato salad can be made up to 2 days ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Q: How do I keep potato salad from getting watery?
A: Drain the potatoes thoroughly after boiling to remove excess moisture. You can also add a few celery sticks to the salad to absorb any extra liquid.