Calories In Potato Salad

Potato salad is a classic dish often enjoyed at barbecues, potlucks, and holiday gatherings. But if you're watching your calorie intake, you might be wondering: how many calories are in potato salad? The answer depends on the ingredients used, as recipes can vary widely.

How Many Calories Are in Potato Salad?

A traditional potato salad made with potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings typically contains around 200-350 calories per cup. Here’s a breakdown of where those calories come from:

• Potatoes: As the base ingredient, potatoes are relatively low in calories at about 110 calories per medium-sized potato.
• Mayonnaise: This is where the calorie count can climb. Just one tablespoon of mayonnaise contains roughly 90 calories, and many recipes use a generous amount.
• Add-ins: Common additions like eggs, bacon, or cheese can significantly increase the calorie count, while lighter ingredients such as celery or herbs add flavor without many additional calories.

If you're looking for a lower-calorie alternative, try swapping out mayo for Greek yogurt or using a mix of light mayonnaise and mustard. These substitutions can cut down on the overall calorie content without compromising on taste.

Mind Your Portion Sizes

One of the easiest ways to manage your calorie intake is by controlling portion sizes. A half-cup serving of traditional potato salad contains roughly 150-180 calories, making it a more moderate option if you're trying to stay within a daily limit.

Keeping track of calories in homemade recipes can feel daunting, but there’s an easy way to simplify the process. Use PowerDreamer’s AI Calorie Counter to quickly monitor your daily intake of calories and nutrients like protein, carbs, and fats. You can even snap a photo of your food or food labels for effortless tracking!