Potato salad is known and loved for its combination of a creamy texture and delicious bite. It is the perfect side dish for many occasions, especially a classic barbecue with family and friends. But while potato salad is a dish full of flavour and one easy to make, there is one thing that can certainly make or break a good one - and that is the potatoes.

A salad that has potatoes which fall apart is one thing you want to avoid when making the family favourite. Yet, it is a mistake that can often happen for many people. Luckily, there is one step home cooks can do to ensure that their potato salad doesn't turn out mushy and completely ruined.

The tip was revealed on cooking blog The Kitchn, and it couldn't be more simple. The blog reads: "Starting the potatoes in cold water ensures that they're perfectly tender and evenly cooked throughout."

And just like that, you can easily say goodbye to potato salad that's no good. The blog also recommends using waxy and all-purpose potatoes for your salad as "they won't fall apart while cooking and will hold their shape when tossed with the mayo-based dressing".

Once you've made the delicious side dish, that is packed with tender and perfectly cooked potatoes, that are mixed with shallots, vinegar, a creamy mayonnaise, and whatever else you fancy, you can choose to save it for a day later by keeping it refrigerated in an airtight container or go ahead and dig in while it's fresh: either way, it will taste just as good.

If you've decided to make and eat it on the day, then you can also refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container and save it for up to five days.

Potato salad can be enjoyed with pretty much anything, which is why it so popular.

Now that you have the secret of how to make sure you never experience a potato salad failure, you can impress your loved ones at the next family function with the simple yet classic dish, that no one will be able to say no to.