Name: French Potato Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 3 lb red potatoes; ⅓ cup olive oil; 3 tbsp lemon juice; 3 small garlic cloves; 2 tsp dijon mustard; 1 tsp fine sea salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 shallot; ⅓ cup Fresh Parsley; 3 tsbp fresh French herbs

Indulge in the delightful flavors of French cuisine with this refreshing and tangy potato salad. This recipe combines tender red potatoes with a zesty lemon and Dijon mustard dressing, complemented by aromatic herbs and a hint of garlic. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for any meal, this French potato salad is sure to impress.

Photos of French Potato Salad Recipe

When preparing this recipe, take note that fresh French herbs and shallots might not be staples in every household. Fresh French herbs often include a mix of tarragon, chervil, and chives, which bring a distinct flavor to the salad. Shallots are milder and sweeter than regular onions, adding a subtle depth to the dish. Make sure to pick these up during your supermarket visit.

Ingredients For French Potato Salad

Red potatoes: These are waxy potatoes that hold their shape well during cooking and have a lovely creamy texture.

Olive oil: A staple in Mediterranean cooking, it serves as the base for the dressing, providing a rich and robust flavor.

Lemon juice: This adds a bright, zesty tang to the dressing, balancing the richness of the olive oil.

Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic infuses the dressing with a pungent, aromatic flavor.

Dijon mustard: This type of mustard is creamy and has a sharp, tangy taste, which enhances the dressing.

Fine sea salt: Used to season the salad, bringing out all the flavors of the ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and spiciness to the salad.

Shallot: A milder onion that provides a subtle sweetness and depth to the salad.

Fresh parsley: Adds a burst of freshness and color to the salad.

Fresh French herbs: Typically a mix of tarragon, chervil, and chives, these herbs add a unique and aromatic flavor to the dish.

One reader, Harli Koehler says:

This French potato salad recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The fresh herbs and tangy dressing elevate the flavors beautifully. It's easy to make and perfect for any gathering. Highly recommend!

Harli Koehler

Key Techniques for French Potato Salad Recipe

How to dice potatoes: Cut the potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. How to whisk a dressing: Combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl and whisk until the mixture is emulsified and evenly combined. How to pierce potatoes with a fork: Gently insert a fork into the potatoes to check for tenderness; they should be easily pierced without resistance. How to chop shallots: Finely chop the shallots to ensure they blend well with the other ingredients. How to chop fresh herbs: Finely chop the fresh parsley and French herbs to evenly distribute their flavors throughout the salad.

How To Make French Potato Salad

A hearty and filling dinner always works to satisfy the hungry bellies that await the evening’s meal. Here, we give you a simple French potato salad that only takes 30 minutes to make.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3lbred potatoescut into ¾-inch cubes
⅓cupolive oil
3tbsplemon juicefreshly-squeezed
3smallgarlic clovespressed or minced
2tspdijon mustard
1tspfine sea salt
½tspblack pepperfreshly-cracked
1shallotpeeled and finely chopped
⅓cupfresh parsleyfinely-chopped
3tsbpfresh French herbsfinely-chopped, (rosemary, chives, tarragon, thyme, dill, or a combo)

Instructions

Place the diced potatoes in a large stockpot and add enough water so that the potatoes are covered by 1 inch. Cook over medium-high heat until the water reaches a boil. Then reduce heat to medium to maintain the simmer, and continue cooking the potatoes for 5 to 8 minutes or until the potatoes pierce easily with a fork.
Drain the potatoes in a colander and let cool for 20 to 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, mustard, salt and pepper in a bowl until evenly combined.
Once the potatoes are ready to go, combine them in a large serving bowl with the dressing, shallot and fresh herbs. Toss gently until evenly combined.
Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed, to taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to chill.
Serve chilled, or refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 216.02kcal
Fat: 9.53g
Saturated Fat: 1.39g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.62g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.10g
Carbohydrates: 31.03g
Fiber: 4.34g
Sugar: 3.01g
Protein: 3.86g
Sodium: 339.29mg
Calcium: 77.95mg
Potassium: 848.18mg
Iron: 4.93mg
Vitamin A: 15.77µg
Vitamin C: 22.37mg

Crucial Technique Tip for French Potato Salad Recipe

To enhance the flavor of your potatoes, consider adding a splash of vinegar to the boiling water. This will help the potatoes retain their shape and add a subtle tanginess that complements the dressing.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing French Potato Salad

Prepare ingredients in advance: Dice the potatoes and chop the herbs the night before to save time on the day of preparation.

Use a food processor: Mince the garlic and shallot quickly using a food processor instead of chopping by hand.

Boil water first: Start with boiling water before adding the potatoes to speed up the cooking process.

Make dressing ahead: Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, salt, and pepper in advance and store in the fridge.

Quick cool potatoes: Spread the cooked potatoes on a baking sheet to cool faster.

Substitute Ingredients For French Potato Salad Recipe

red potatoes - Substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes have a similar texture and flavor, making them a great alternative.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and similar health benefits, making it a suitable replacement.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar provides a similar acidity and tanginess to lemon juice.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable; adjust the quantity to taste.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard has a similar flavor profile and texture.
fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used in place of fine sea salt; just adjust the quantity slightly.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor, with a slightly different color.
shallot - Substitute with red onion: Red onion has a similar flavor and can be used in place of shallots.
fresh parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can provide a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to parsley.
fresh french herbs - Substitute with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning contains a mix of herbs that can mimic the flavor of fresh French herbs.

Presentation Ideas for French Potato Salad

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the French potato salad in elegant, small portions using a ring mold to create a neat, cylindrical shape on each plate.
Use decoration: Garnish each serving with a sprig of fresh parsley and a light drizzle of olive oil around the plate for a touch of sophistication.
Highlight ingredients: Place a few thin slices of shallot and a sprinkle of fresh French herbs on top of the salad to showcase the fresh ingredients.
Add texture: Include a few crispy potato chips or croutons on the side for added texture and visual appeal.
Use high-quality plates: Serve the salad on pristine white plates to make the colors of the red potatoes and fresh herbs pop, creating a visually stunning presentation.
Incorporate color contrast: Add a small side of mixed greens or microgreens with a light lemon vinaigrette to provide a vibrant color contrast and enhance the overall presentation.
Pay attention to detail: Ensure that each element on the plate is meticulously placed, with no smudges or spills, to maintain a clean and professional appearance.
Serve chilled: Present the salad slightly chilled to maintain its refreshing quality, ensuring that it is served at the optimal temperature for the best taste and texture.

Essential Tools for Making French Potato Salad

Large stockpot: Used to cook the diced potatoes in boiling water.
Colander: Essential for draining the cooked potatoes after boiling.
Mixing bowl: Needed to whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
Whisk: Utilized to mix the dressing ingredients until they are evenly combined.
Serving bowl: Used to combine the cooked potatoes with the dressing, shallot, and fresh herbs.
Knife: Necessary for dicing the potatoes and chopping the shallot and fresh herbs.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for dicing and chopping ingredients.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the olive oil and lemon juice accurately.
Measuring spoons: Needed to measure the dijon mustard, salt, and pepper precisely.
Fork: Handy for checking the doneness of the potatoes by piercing them.
Refrigerator: Used to chill the potato salad for 1 to 2 hours before serving.
Sealed container: Ideal for storing the potato salad in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Storing and Freezing French Potato Salad

To store the french potato salad, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together and intensify over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
If you have leftovers or want to make the salad ahead of time, you can freeze it for longer storage. However, keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly after freezing and thawing.
To freeze the potato salad, place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen potato salad, transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and ingredients.
If the thawed potato salad seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice to refresh the dressing and bring back some moisture.
For best quality, consume the frozen and thawed potato salad within 2-3 months. After that, the texture and flavor may start to deteriorate.
If you plan to make the french potato salad ahead of time for a gathering or event, it's best to prepare it no more than 24 hours in advance to ensure optimal freshness and texture.

How To Reheat Leftover French Potato Salad

Reheat the french potato salad in the microwave: place the desired amount of potato salad in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the potatoes to become mushy and the dressing to separate.
Reheat the french potato salad in a skillet: place the desired amount of potato salad in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Stir the potato salad frequently, until it's heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method will give your leftover potato salad a nice texture and help the flavors meld together.
Reheat the french potato salad in the oven: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the desired amount of potato salad in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat the potato salad in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through. Remove the foil for the last few minutes of reheating to allow the top to crisp up slightly.
Enjoy the french potato salad cold: sometimes, the best way to enjoy leftover potato salad is to simply eat it cold, straight from the refrigerator. The flavors will have had time to meld together, and the cold temperature can be refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Adjust the seasoning and moisture: before reheating or serving, taste the leftover french potato salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the potato salad seems a bit dry, you can add a small amount of olive oil, lemon juice, or dijon mustard to help moisten it and brighten up the flavors.

Interesting Fact About French Potato Salad

A unique aspect of this French potato salad is that it uses dijon mustard and lemon juice in the dressing, which adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor, distinguishing it from traditional potato salads that often use mayonnaise.

Is Making French Potato Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This French potato salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like red potatoes, olive oil, and lemon juice are affordable and readily available. Fresh herbs like parsley and French herbs add a gourmet touch without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is French Potato Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

This French potato salad recipe is relatively healthy compared to traditional potato salads that often use heavy mayonnaise-based dressings. The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the lemon juice and Dijon mustard add flavor without excessive calories. The inclusion of fresh herbs and garlic also enhances the nutritional value of the dish.

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:

Reduce the amount of olive oil to lower the overall calorie content
Include more vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Consider using a mix of red and sweet potatoes for added variety and nutritional benefits
Opt for fresh, organic ingredients whenever possible to minimize exposure to pesticides and maximize nutrient density

To further enhance the healthiness of this French potato salad, you could:

Add some chopped, hard-boiled eggs for an extra boost of protein
Sprinkle in some toasted nuts or seeds, like almonds or pumpkin seeds, for added crunch and healthy fats
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as dill, chives, or smoked paprika, to create exciting flavor combinations without relying on salt
Serve the potato salad over a bed of mixed greens to increase the vegetable content and create a more balanced meal

Editor's Opinion on This French Potato Salad Recipe

This French potato salad recipe is a delightful twist on a classic. The use of red potatoes ensures a firm yet tender texture, while the olive oil and lemon juice dressing adds a refreshing tang. Dijon mustard and garlic provide depth and a subtle kick. The inclusion of shallots and fresh herbs like parsley enhances the flavor profile, making it vibrant and aromatic. Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Overall, it's a sophisticated and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.

Enhance Your French Potato Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Enhance your French Potato Salad with a side of perfectly grilled asparagus drizzled with a hint of lemon zest. The smoky flavor of the asparagus complements the tangy lemon juice in the salad, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Herb-Crusted Salmon: Pair the French Potato Salad with a succulent herb-crusted salmon, baked to perfection. The fresh herbs in the salad will echo the aromatic crust on the salmon, making each bite a delightful experience.

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Add a splash of color and a burst of flavor with a roasted beet and goat cheese salad. The earthy sweetness of the beets and the creamy tang of the goat cheese will provide a delightful contrast to the French Potato Salad.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers: Serve the French Potato Salad alongside garlic butter shrimp skewers. The rich, buttery shrimp with a hint of garlic will elevate the overall dining experience, making it a meal to remember.

Mixed Berry Tart: Finish off your meal with a mixed berry tart. The sweet and tart berries will provide a refreshing contrast to the savory French Potato Salad, leaving your taste buds satisfied and delighted.

Similar Recipes to French Potato Salad

German Potato Salad: Dive into the tangy and savory world of German Potato Salad. This dish features tender potatoes tossed with crispy bacon, onions, and a warm vinegar dressing. Perfect for a hearty side dish that complements any meat entrée.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this quinoa salad. Packed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, feta cheese, and a zesty lemon and olive oil dressing, it's a refreshing and nutritious option.

Greek Orzo Salad: Transport your taste buds to Greece with this delightful Greek Orzo Salad. Combining orzo pasta, kalamata olives, bell peppers, red onions, and crumbled feta, all tossed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette, it's a perfect side or light meal.

Italian Pasta Salad: Savor the classic flavors of Italy with this Italian Pasta Salad. Featuring rotini pasta, salami, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and black olives, all dressed in a robust Italian dressing, it's a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Roasted Vegetable Salad: Enjoy a medley of roasted vegetables in this hearty Roasted Vegetable Salad. With zucchini, bell peppers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes roasted to perfection and tossed with a simple balsamic vinaigrette, it's a delicious way to eat your veggies.

Why trust this French Potato Salad Recipe:

This French potato salad recipe is a must-try for its simplicity and authentic flavors. The combination of red potatoes, olive oil, and lemon juice creates a refreshing and light dish. The addition of dijon mustard and fresh herbs elevates the taste, making it a perfect side for any meal. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and ease of preparation, ensuring a delightful experience every time.

Share your thoughts on this French Potato Salad Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make it even better!

FAQ:

How do I know when the potatoes are done cooking?

You can tell the potatoes are done when they pierce easily with a fork. They should be tender but not falling apart.

Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?

Sure, you can use other types of potatoes like Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes. Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different.

How long can I store the potato salad in the fridge?

You can store the potato salad in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It actually tastes better after it sits for a while.

Can I add other ingredients to this potato salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like capers, olives, or even some chopped hard-boiled eggs to give it your own twist.

Do I have to chill the potato salad before serving?

It's best to chill the potato salad for 1 to 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld together. But if you're in a hurry, you can serve it slightly warm or at room temperature.