How to Make French Green Bean and Potato Salad

French green bean and potato salad, or "salade de haricots verts et pommes de terre," is a delightful dish that combines the earthy flavors of fresh green beans and tender potatoes with a tangy vinaigrette. It's a perfect accompaniment for grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own for a light meal. Follow this simple recipe to create a flavorful and visually appealing salad that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

500 grams of fresh green beans
400 grams of new potatoes or waxy potatoes
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
3 tablespoons of olive oil
2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly. If they're small, you can leave them whole; for larger potatoes, cut them into bite-sized pieces. Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water, bring to a boil, and cook for around 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender but not mushy. Drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool.

Step 2: Blanch the Green Beans

While the potatoes are cooling, prepare the green beans. Trim the ends and cut them into manageable lengths, about 2 to 3 inches. Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add the green beans, and blanch them for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and pat dry.

Step 3: Make the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preference. This zesty vinaigrette will brighten the flavors of your salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, blanched green beans, chopped red onion, cherry tomatoes, and fresh parsley. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss until all ingredients are well coated. Be careful not to mush the potatoes.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best results, allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve the salad cold or at room temperature, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Tips for the Best Salad

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use in-season green beans and potatoes for the best flavor and texture.
Add Protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding cooked chicken, hard-boiled eggs, or chickpeas.
Customize Your Salad: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients, such as bell peppers, olives, or feta cheese for added flavor.

This French green bean and potato salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic option for a healthy diet. Enjoy making this light and refreshing dish at your next gathering or as a weekly meal prep item.