This French Style Potato Salad is a lovely mix of tender potatoes, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for any meal or picnic!
I love how colorful this salad is with all the herbs. It’s a great side dish and goes well with just about anything. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up—no fancy skills needed!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Red Potatoes: These are perfect for a creamy salad due to their waxy texture. You can substitute them with Yukon gold potatoes, which also hold their shape well, or even fingerling potatoes for a fun twist.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the salad. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. I’ve also mixed half mayo and half sour cream for extra tang!
Dijon Mustard: Adds a zesty flavor. If you don’t have Dijon, regular yellow mustard works in a pinch, though it will taste a bit milder. I love a touch of whole grain mustard for crunch and flavor.
Vinegar: White wine vinegar is great for a classic taste, but apple cider vinegar works well too. For a different flavor, try a splash of lemon juice for brightness!
Fresh Herbs: Dill and parsley are must-haves for that fresh flavor. If you run out of dill, tarragon or cilantro can be delightful substitutes.
How Do You Cook Potatoes Perfectly for Salad?
Cooking the potatoes properly is key to great salad. Follow these steps for perfectly tender potatoes without falling apart:
- Start with cold water in your pot and add a pinch of salt—this helps season the potatoes evenly.
- Bring the water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat to cook evenly.
- Check for doneness with a fork after about 15 minutes. You want them just tender, not mushy.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly before cutting them. Warm potatoes absorb the dressing better!
By following these steps, your potato salad will have that perfect creamy texture and delicious flavor!
French Style Potato Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 pounds baby red potatoes
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook the potatoes, plus 30 minutes of resting time for the flavors to meld. If you prefer it chilled, you can refrigerate it for an hour or more. Overall, you’ll have a delicious salad ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by washing the baby red potatoes thoroughly. Then, place them in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the potatoes until they are tender when pierced with a fork, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them!
2. Cool and Slice:
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and let them cool slightly. Once they are comfortable to handle, slice them into halves or quarters based on their size, so they are bite-sized.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and your choice of vinegar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy dressing will give the salad its lovely flavor!
4. Add Ingredients:
Next, add the finely chopped red onion, dill, parsley, and optional chives to the bowl with the dressing. Stir everything together to combine the flavors nicely.
5. Combine Potatoes and Dressing:
Gently fold the warm, sliced potatoes into the dressing mixture. Carry out this step carefully to evenly coat the potatoes without breaking them. Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Let It Rest:
Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors meld together beautifully. If you prefer, you can also cover the salad and refrigerate it so it’s chilled.
7. Serve:
Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to ensure everything is well combined. If you’d like, feel free to garnish it with additional fresh herbs for a lovely presentation. Enjoy your delightful French style potato salad as a side with grilled meats, fish, or savor it on its own!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can use other waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes if baby red potatoes aren’t available. Just make sure they hold their shape well after cooking!
How Can I Make This Salad Lighter?
If you want a lighter version, try substituting half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a light mayo. This will still give you a creamy texture but with fewer calories.
Can I Make This Potato Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This potato salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve after sitting for a while!
What Are Some Variations I Can Try?
Feel free to mix things up! You can add diced celery for a crunch, cooked bacon for a smoky flavor, or even hard-boiled eggs for extra protein. Tailor it to your taste!
