Ina Garten French Potato Salad
Ina Garten Recipes

Ina Garten French Potato Salad Recipe 

Ina Garten’s French Potato Salad is a refreshing and tangy take on the traditional potato salad. Instead of the usual mayonnaise, this version features a light vinaigrette that perfectly complements the tender potatoes. The addition of fresh herbs and a touch of Dijon mustard gives it a sophisticated flavor that’s ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish to your favorite grilled meats. This guide will walk you through the steps to create this delicious and elegant salad at home.

What is Ina Garten French Potato Salad?

Ina Garten’s French Potato Salad is a light and flavorful dish made with boiled potatoes, a zesty vinaigrette, and fresh herbs. Unlike the creamy American potato salad, this version is tossed in a mustard-based dressing, making it a healthier and more refreshing option. The salad is served at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Ina Garten French Potato Salad

Other Ina Garten Salad Recipes

Why You Should Try This Recipe

  • Light and Healthy: The vinaigrette dressing makes this salad a healthier alternative to traditional potato salad.
  • Sophisticated Flavor: Fresh herbs and Dijon mustard add a refined taste to this simple dish.
  • Versatile: This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this salad is quick and easy to prepare.
  • Perfect for Gatherings: The elegant presentation and delicious flavor make it a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten French Potato Salad

  • 3 pounds small white potatoes
  • 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons good Dijon mustard
  • 10 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions to Make Ina Garten French Potato Salad

  1. Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 20-30 minutes, until tender.
  2. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Slowly add the olive oil, whisking constantly until the dressing is emulsified.
  3. Slice the Potatoes: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
  4. Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the warm potatoes with the vinaigrette. Toss gently to coat.
  5. Add Fresh Herbs: Fold in the dill, parsley, basil, and green onions (if using). Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Serve: Let the salad sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve as a side dish.
Ina Garten French Potato Salad Recipe

What Goes Well With Ina Garten French Potato Salad

  • Grilled Meats: Complements the smoky flavors of grilled chicken, steak, or lamb.
  • Fish: Pairs beautifully with grilled or baked fish, such as salmon or trout.
  • Barbecue: A perfect side for BBQ ribs or pulled pork.
  • Vegetarian Dishes: This goes well with a variety of vegetarian main courses, such as stuffed peppers or grilled vegetables.
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty French bread to soak up the delicious vinaigrette.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Ina Garten French Potato Salad

  • Use Waxy Potatoes: Waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds hold their shape better in the salad.
  • Slice While Warm: Slice the potatoes while they’re still warm to absorb more of the vinaigrette.
  • Fresh Herbs: Always use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
  • Balance the Dressing: Adjust the vinaigrette to your taste by adding more vinegar or mustard as needed.
  • Serve at Room Temperature: This salad tastes best at room temperature, so don’t serve it straight from the fridge.
  • Gently Toss: Be gentle when tossing the potatoes to avoid breaking them.

Variations of Ina Garten French Potato Salad

  • Add Capers: For a briny twist, add a tablespoon of capers to the salad.
  • Roasted Garlic: Incorporate roasted garlic into the vinaigrette for a deeper flavor.
  • Different Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like tarragon or chives for a different flavor profile.
  • Lemon Zest: Add a touch of lemon zest to the vinaigrette for a citrusy note.
  • Red Onions: Substitute green onions with thinly sliced red onions for a sharper taste.

Storing Ina Garten French Potato Salad: Best Practices

  • Airtight Container: Store the salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
  • Refrigerate: Keep the salad in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Bring to Room Temperature: Before serving, let the salad come to room temperature for the best flavor.
  • Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the potatoes.
  • Refresh the Salad: Before serving leftovers, give the salad a gentle toss and add fresh herbs if needed.

Reheating Ina Garten French Potato Salad: Best Practices

  • No Reheating Needed: This salad is best served at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary.
  • Room Temperature: If the salad has been refrigerated, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
  • Gently Toss: Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing and herbs.
  • Fresh Herbs: Add a handful of fresh herbs to brighten up the flavors just before serving.
  • Quick Refresh: If the salad seems dry, drizzle with a little extra olive oil and toss.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 5g

FAQs

How do I keep the potatoes from falling apart in Ina Garten’s French Potato Salad?

To keep the potatoes from falling apart, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Golds or fingerlings, which hold their shape better when boiled. Be sure to cook the potatoes just until tender, and let them cool slightly before slicing. Toss the salad gently to avoid breaking the potato slices.

Can I make Ina Garten’s French Potato Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Ina Garten’s French Potato Salad ahead of time. Prepare the salad up to a day in advance, and store it in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, let the salad come to room temperature before serving, and give it a gentle toss to refresh the dressing.

What can I substitute for Dijon mustard in Ina Garten’s French Potato Salad?

If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with whole-grain mustard or yellow mustard. Keep in mind that these substitutes will slightly alter the flavor, but they will still provide the tangy taste that complements the salad.

How do I adjust the vinaigrette if my Ina Garten French Potato Salad is too tangy?

If your salad is too tangy, you can balance the vinaigrette by adding a little more olive oil or a pinch of sugar. Taste as you adjust, and add salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s French Potato Salad is a delightful and elegant dish that elevates any meal with its fresh herbs and tangy vinaigrette. Its light, refreshing flavor makes it a perfect side dish for a wide range of main courses.

Related Recipes By Garin:

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Ina Garten French Potato Salad

Ina Garten French Potato Salad Recipe 

  • Author: Garin Elwood
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 20
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: French

Description

Ina Garten’s French Potato Salad is a light and flavorful dish made with boiled potatoes, a zesty vinaigrette, and fresh herbs. Unlike the creamy American potato salad, this version is tossed in a mustard-based dressing, making it a healthier and more refreshing option. The salad is served at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds small white potatoes
  • 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons good Dijon mustard
  • 10 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 20-30 minutes, until tender.
  2. Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Slowly add the olive oil, whisking constantly until the dressing is emulsified.
  3. Slice the Potatoes: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
  4. Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the warm potatoes with the vinaigrette. Toss gently to coat.
  5. Add Fresh Herbs: Fold in the dill, parsley, basil, and green onions (if using). Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Serve: Let the salad sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve as a side dish.

AboutGarin Elwood

I'm Chef Garin Elwood, excited to have you here! With over ten years of culinary experience, I’m here to make gourmet cooking easy for everyone.

At Garin Cooking Recipes, you’ll find a wide range of simple yet delicious recipes that are perfect for any home cook. From quick dinners to special occasion meals, every recipe is designed to be both enjoyable to make and great to eat.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating