This French Style Potato Salad is light and tasty, perfect for any meal. It features tender potatoes mixed with fresh herbs, tangy mustard, and a splash of vinegar for that special zing!
You can serve it warm or cold, making it super versatile. I enjoy packing it for picnics or barbecues. Just a scoop brings smiles all around! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Small red or yellow potatoes are ideal as they hold their shape well. If you can’t find them, any waxy potato will work. Avoid starchy potatoes, like Russets, as they may break apart.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely flavor. If you prefer a lighter taste, you can use canola oil or avocado oil instead.
Dijon Mustard: This mustard provides a nice tang. If you want something milder, yellow mustard works fine. For a unique twist, try whole grain mustard!
Vinegar: White wine vinegar adds acidity. You can swap it with apple cider vinegar or even lemon juice if you want a fresh zest.
Shallots & Garlic: Shallots give a mild onion flavor, but finely chopped red onion is a great substitute. Fresh garlic is a must for flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
How Can I Make Sure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking potatoes correctly is key for this salad. You want them tender but not mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with cold water in the pot; this helps cook the potatoes evenly.
- Add a pinch of salt to the water; it seasons the potatoes as they cook.
- Once boiling, keep an eye on the clock. Test them with a fork after about 12 minutes.
- If they’re just tender and still hold their shape, drain them quickly to avoid overcooking.
Cooking them this way ensures your salad has the perfect texture!
French Style Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds small red or yellow potatoes, halved or quartered
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This French Style Potato Salad takes about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking, and then you can enjoy it right away or let it chill in the fridge for a bit. Perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by rinsing the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, but there’s no need to peel them. Their skins add great flavor and texture!
2. Cook the Potatoes:
Put the cut potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Sprinkle in a pinch of salt to season. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and let the potatoes cook for 12-15 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. After they are cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
3. Make the Dressing:
While the potatoes are cooking, grab a large bowl to make the dressing. Whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, minced shallot, minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This mixture will give the salad its delicious flavor!
4. Combine Potatoes and Dressing:
Add the warm, drained potatoes to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss the potatoes to coat them evenly with the dressing—using warm potatoes helps them soak up all those tasty flavors!
5. Add Fresh Herbs:
Once the potatoes are coated, fold in the freshly chopped parsley and dill (if you’re using it). Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if you like.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
This French Style Potato Salad can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any meal. You can also chill it in the fridge if you prefer it cold. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful potato salad!
This light and vibrant dish is perfect as a side for any entrée, and I hope it brings joy to your dining table!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While small red or yellow potatoes work best for their creamy texture, you can also use fingerling potatoes or even baby Yukon Golds. Just ensure they’re waxy rather than starchy to maintain their shape in the salad.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it doesn’t contain any animal products. Just ensure to check your Dijon mustard for vegan certification, as some brands may include non-vegan ingredients.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle toss before serving again as the dressing may settle.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your potato salad. You can add chopped bell peppers, green onions, or even crumbled vegan feta cheese for extra flavor. Just keep an eye on the proportions to maintain a balanced taste!
