How to Make French Potato Salad (Salade de Pommes de Terre)

French Potato Salad, or Salade de Pommes de Terre, is a delightful dish that showcases the simplicity and freshness of ingredients. Unlike typical American potato salad, the French version is usually made without mayonnaise, opting for a lighter dressing that highlights the flavors of the potatoes and herbs. Here’s how to make this delicious and refreshing dish that is perfect for picnics, summer gatherings, or as a side for any meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds of new potatoes or baby potatoes
  • 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt (to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
  • 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
  • 2-3 green onions, finely sliced
  • 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • 2-3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. If you’re using larger potatoes, you can cut them into halves or quarters. New or baby potatoes can be left whole. Place the potatoes in a large pot, cover them with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as you want them to hold their shape.

2. Drain and Cool:

Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and let them cool for a few minutes. You can also run cold water over them to speed up the cooling process. When they are cool enough to handle, slice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.

3. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference. This dressing is what gives the salad its distinct flavor, so make sure to taste it before pouring it over the potatoes.

4. Combine the Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm potatoes with the dressing. Gently toss to coat the potatoes evenly. It’s best to do this while the potatoes are still warm, as they absorb the dressing better.

5. Add Fresh Ingredients:

Next, fold in the chopped parsley, sliced green onions, and if desired, halved cherry tomatoes and chopped hard-boiled eggs. Gently mix to incorporate all the ingredients without breaking the potatoes.

6. Chill and Serve:

Cover the salad with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss, and taste one last time for seasoning adjustments.

Serving Suggestions

French Potato Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or as a light vegetarian option by itself. It’s also an excellent dish to bring to a barbecue or picnic, where it can complement various mains and sides.

Storage

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier on the second day!

Enjoy your homemade Salade de Pommes de Terre, a fresh and flavorful addition to any meal that brings a touch of French countryside charm to your table!