This Easy Provencal Potato Salad is all about flavor and freshness! With tender potatoes, zesty lemon, and tasty herbs, it’s perfect for a picnic or a cozy dinner at home.
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up! I enjoy adding a sprinkle of extra herbs on top before serving. It’s a crowd-pleaser and always disappears fast! 🌿🥔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yukon Gold Potatoes: These are creamy and flavorful, perfect for salads. If you can’t find them, red potatoes or even baby potatoes work great too!
Olive Oil: Good quality olive oil brings richness to the dressing. In a pinch, you can use avocado oil or even grapeseed oil if you prefer a lighter taste.
Vinegar: White wine or champagne vinegar adds a nice tang. Apple cider vinegar is a good substitute if that’s what you have on hand.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a bit of zing. If you’re avoiding mustard, try using a small amount of mayonnaise for creaminess, but the flavor will change slightly.
Herbs: Fresh flat-leaf parsley and basil are key for that Provencal touch. You can replace them with dill or chives for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Tender Potatoes?
Cooking the potatoes just right is crucial! Start with cold water to promote even cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Place potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water.
- Add salt to the water before heating for extra flavor.
- Simmer until fork-tender, checking after about 15 minutes to prevent overcooking.
- After draining, let them cool slightly before mixing with dressing to absorb flavors better.
This thoughtful approach ensures your potatoes have the perfect texture and absorb all those delicious flavors. Enjoy your salad!
Ina Garten’s Easy Provencal Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons good olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar or champagne vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced into thin ribbons (chiffonade)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 45 minutes, including 20 minutes of cooking time and at least 30 minutes for the salad to sit and allow the flavors to meld. It’s easy to make and perfect for a warm gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes:
Start by placing the peeled and cut Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot. Fill the pot with cold water until it covers the potatoes by 1 inch. Add a good pinch of salt to the water. Bring it to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium. Let it simmer until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, which should take around 15 to 20 minutes.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
While the potatoes are cooking, grab a large bowl and whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar (or champagne vinegar), Dijon mustard, and minced shallot until well combined and slightly emulsified. This will create your flavorful dressing that will coat the potatoes.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Once the potatoes are cooked and tender, drain them in a colander and allow them to cool slightly. Then, while they are still warm, add them directly to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss the potatoes to ensure they are well coated in the dressing, absorbing all those delicious flavors.
4. Add Fresh Herbs:
Next, stir in the chopped flat-leaf parsley and chiffonade basil. This brings a fresh and vibrant flavor to your potato salad. Season it all up with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Let It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving. This rest period is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully together, enhancing the taste of the dish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy your potato salad, serve it at room temperature or slightly chilled. Feel free to garnish with a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs for a lovely presentation.
This Easy Provencal Potato Salad is not only a great side dish, but it also embodies the essence of the French countryside with its bright, tangy dressing and fresh herbs. Perfect for warm weather meals and gatherings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can substitute with red potatoes, fingerling potatoes, or even new potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
How Can I Make This Potato Salad Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! The dressing consists of olive oil, vinegar, and mustard, which are all plant-based. Just ensure that the mustard you choose is free from animal products.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance! Just mix everything together and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually improve overnight, but it’s best to add fresh herbs just before serving for optimal flavor and presentation.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but make sure to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing!
