This potato salad is inspired by my dad, who made it for my family when I was a kid. I have many guesses as to why he calls it “hillbilly potato salad”: it could be because he grew up in Virginia, surrounded by hills and valleys. It could be because the simple nature of the preparation is a bit “non-traditional” (to say the least). At the end of the day, it doesn’t really matter, because this stuff is good!! I think it’s the first dish I remember him making as a child. As we have already established, I am a potato junkie, so this potato salad (Hilbilly or not) is right up my alley.
It all starts with leftover mashed potatoes. Please refer to our Amazing Mashed Potatoes for the perfect recipe. Make the mashed potatoes as a side dish for your dinner, and be sure to make extra so you have leftovers to make this salad. Or, if you so desire, make the mashed potatoes just so you can make this dish for your next cookout! I made this for our Memorial Day cookout, and the kids really liked it. The sweet pickles were just what it needed to charge the taste buds. Jackie had the perfect description: “tangy, like deviled eggs.” She was not far off based on the consistency, but there are no eggs in it! We love it at our house, and we are proud that it is dad’s recipe. It is perfect for summer grilling season.