Can you store your cooked potatoes for potato salad overnight before mixing with other ingredients?

It's generally not recommended to store cooked potatoes overnight before making potato salad.

Here's why:

* Food Safety: Cooked potatoes are a breeding ground for bacteria, especially at room temperature. Storing them overnight, even in the refrigerator, can increase the risk of foodborne illness.

* Texture: Potatoes can dry out and become tough when stored for too long. This can negatively impact the texture of your potato salad.

* Flavor: The flavor of potatoes can change over time, especially when stored in the refrigerator. This can affect the overall taste of your potato salad.

Instead, here's a safer approach:

1. Cook your potatoes the same day you plan to make the salad.

2. Cool them quickly: Place the potatoes in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from becoming mushy.

3. Refrigerate: Once cool, store the potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to make the salad.

This will ensure your potato salad is safe, delicious, and has the best possible texture.