This Classic French Potato Salad is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. It features tender potatoes, zesty mustard, and fresh herbs to brighten up your plate!
Making it is a breeze! I love serving it on warm days with grilled meats. Plus, it’s such a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make it again and again. Who can resist that creamy goodness? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Waxy Potatoes: I recommend small waxy potatoes like Charlotte or Yukon Gold. They’re creamy and hold their shape well. If you can’t find these, try any small potatoes like red or fingerling varieties instead.
Dijon Mustard: This mustard gives a nice tang to the salad. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, you could use yellow mustard. For a twist, whole grain mustard adds texture and a bit more depth.
White Wine Vinegar: This vinegar provides a light acidity. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar works great too. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Chives and parsley are traditional here. You can substitute with dill for a different flavor. Fresh herbs really brighten the dish!
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Potatoes?
Cooking the potatoes just right is a key step for the perfect French potato salad. Here’s how to get them tender without falling apart:
- Start with cold water: Place potatoes in a pot and cover them with cold, salted water. This helps them cook evenly.
- Watch the time: Boil and then simmer until they’re just tender when poked with a fork, usually around 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them!
- Cool and cut: Once drained, let them cool slightly before cutting. This step is important as the warm potatoes will absorb the dressing beautifully.
Taking these steps ensures your potatoes are perfectly cooked and ready to soak up that delicious dressing!
Classic French Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds (900g) small waxy potatoes (such as Charlotte or Yukon Gold)
- Salt, to taste
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) good quality olive oil
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Classic French Potato Salad takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook the potatoes, plus an additional 30 minutes for the flavors to meld together before serving. In total, you’re looking at under an hour for a delicious, creamy salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Start by placing the small waxy potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold salted water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce it to a simmer. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until they are just tender when pierced with a fork. Be careful not to overcook them!
2. Cool and Cut:
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and allow them to cool slightly. If you wish to peel them, now is the time! Cut the potatoes into bite-sized chunks while they are still warm so they can soak up the dressing better.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt. This will create a flavorful base for your salad. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to create a creamy, emulsified dressing.
4. Add Shallots:
Once the dressing is smooth, add the finely minced shallot to the mixture and stir to combine. This will add a nice crunch and extra flavor to your potato salad.
5. Combine Potatoes and Dressing:
Gently toss the warm potato chunks with the dressing in the bowl. A light touch helps avoid breaking up the potatoes too much! Make sure they are evenly coated with that delicious dressing.
6. Add Fresh Herbs:
Next, fold in the chopped chives and parsley for a fresh green touch. Finally, season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. This adds just the right finishing touch!
7. Let It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully. It can also be served slightly chilled—perfect for picnics or outdoor meals!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Classic French Potato Salad is now ready to be enjoyed! It’s a perfect side dish for grilled meats or can be a delightful standalone dish. Enjoy the fresh and creamy flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can! While small waxy potatoes like Charlotte or Yukon Gold are preferred for their creamy texture and ability to hold shape, any small potatoes such as red or fingerling can be used as substitutes.
Can I Make This Potato Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature or refrigerate for up to a day. If refrigerated, allow it to come to room temperature before serving to enhance the flavors.
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for up to 3 days. Before serving, give the salad a good stir and add a splash of olive oil or vinegar to refresh the flavors.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like diced celery for crunch, capers for extra tang, or even hard-boiled eggs for added protein. Just keep in mind that these additions may change the flavor profile!
