Potato salad is a beloved side dish featuring boiled potatoes mixed with mayonnaise and seasonings. Its origins can be traced back to 16th-century Spain, but it gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century. Today, it's a staple at picnics, barbecues, and potlucks, with variations worldwide.

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs (about 1 kg) potatoes, peeled and diced

- 1 cup mayonnaise

- 2 tablespoons mustard

- 1/2 cup chopped celery

- 1/4 cup chopped red onion

- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

- Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

- Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and let cool.

- In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, mustard, celery, red onion, and parsley.

- Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl and gently toss to coat them with the dressing.

- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy!

Nutrition Value:

Potatoes (2 lbs, diced):

  - Calories: Approximately 440 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Around 100 grams

  - Protein: About 10 grams

  - Fat: Nearly 1 gram

  - Sodium: Minimal

  - Cholesterol: Zero

  - Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Potassium, and Fiber. Provides energy, supports immune function, and aids digestion.

Mayonnaise (1 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 1440 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Minimal (typically less than 2 grams)

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Around 160 grams

  - Sodium: Varies depending on brand, typically around 1200-1600 mg

  - Cholesterol: Varies depending on ingredients, typically around 60-80 mg

  - Vitamins & Minerals: Contains Vitamin K and E. Provides energy but should be consumed in moderation due to high fat and calorie content.

Mustard (2 tablespoons):

  - Calories: Approximately 15 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Around 1 gram

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: About 120-200 mg

  - Cholesterol: Zero

  - Vitamins & Minerals: Contains small amounts of Vitamin C and Iron. Low in calories and fat, adds flavor without significant nutritional impact.

Celery (1/2 cup, chopped):

  - Calories: Approximately 8 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Around 1.5 grams

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: About 35 mg

  - Cholesterol: Zero

  - Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in Vitamin K and Vitamin C. Contains fiber and antioxidants, supports hydration and digestion.

Red Onion (1/4 cup, chopped):

  - Calories: Approximately 16 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Around 3.5 grams

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: About 2 mg

  - Cholesterol: Zero

  - Vitamins & Minerals: Contains Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and Folate. Provides flavor and antioxidants, supports immune function and heart health.

Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped):

  - Calories: Approximately 2 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram

  - Protein: Less than 1 gram

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: About 3 mg

  - Cholesterol: Zero

  - Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and Folate. Contains antioxidants and may support bone health and immune function.

Salt and Pepper:

  - Calories: Zero

  - Carbohydrates: Zero

  - Protein: Zero

  - Fat: Zero

  - Sodium: Depends on the amount added

  - Cholesterol: Zero

  - Vitamins & Minerals: None. Used for seasoning, enhances flavor. Should be used in moderation, especially salt, to manage sodium intake.