Serves 12

5 pounds white potatoes

1 pound bacon

1 large onion, diced

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

3 tablespoons sugar

2 teaspoons salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

⅔ cup white or apple cider vinegar

1 cup water

⅓ cup green onion, chopped

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

2 teaspoons celery seeds (optional)

• Scrub potatoes and boil, unpeeled, until tender. Drain and set aside until cool enough to handle. Peel potatoes and slice thinly. Place in a large serving dish.

• In a large skillet, fry bacon until crisp. Drain and crumble.

• Add onion to bacon drippings and cook over medium heat until just softened.

• Combine flour, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Add vinegar and water, stirring until smooth. Pour mixture into skillet with bacon drippings and onion. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens slightly. Add crumbled bacon to the pan.

• Pour dressing over potatoes and toss to mix well. Add green onion and parsley, plus celery seeds, if desired.

Thrifty and Nifty

Go to your nearest dollar store to stock up on paper plates, plastic table covers, and cups. Most carry a range of solid colors or seasonal patterns. You'll be able to put together a festive table without breaking the bank.