Imagine a vibrant, sun-kissed potato salad that captures the essence of Southern French cuisine in just one forkful. This isn't your ordinary potato salad – it's a culinary journey that combines crisp green beans, tangy olives, and a zesty vinaigrette that will make your mouth water. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or when you're craving a taste of Mediterranean elegance, this Southern French Potato Salad is about to become your new favorite dish that will impress both family and friends!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs small potatoes, boiled and diced
- 1/2 cup green beans, blanched
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the small potatoes thoroughly, ensuring all dirt is removed from the skin.
- Place potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- While potatoes are cooking, prepare an ice water bath in a large bowl to stop the cooking process for the green beans.
- Blanch green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender, then immediately transfer to the ice water bath to preserve color and texture.
- Drain potatoes and let cool for 10 minutes. Cut into bite-sized cubes while still slightly warm.
- Dice red onion finely and slice black olives into thin rings.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm potato cubes, blanched green beans, diced red onion, and sliced black olives.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the potato mixture and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Let the salad rest for 10-15 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar to preference.
- Serve at room temperature as a delightful side dish or light lunch.
Tips
- Choose the right potatoes: Small, waxy potatoes work best as they hold their shape and absorb the dressing beautifully.
- Salt your boiling water: This helps season the potatoes from the inside out, creating more flavor.
- Don't overcook the green beans: They should remain bright green and crisp-tender to maintain their texture and nutritional value.
- Let the salad rest: Allowing the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes helps the flavors meld together and develop a more complex taste.
- Serve at room temperature: This potato salad is best enjoyed slightly warm or at room temperature, which allows the flavors to shine.
- Optional enhancement: For an extra touch of authenticity, consider adding some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme to the dressing.
- Make ahead friendly: This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
