Welcome to a journey into the heart of French cuisine, where simplicity meets elegance, and every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor. Today, we’re exploring a classic with a twist: a French-Style Potato Salad dressed in a delectably tangy Dijon mustard vinaigrette, bursting with fresh herbs. This recipe is a testament to the beauty of combining simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both sophisticated and comforting. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure.
Ingredients:
- Potatoes: 1 1/2 pounds, diced. Feel free to peel them if that’s your preference, but leaving the skin on adds a lovely texture.
- Fresh Herbs: 3 tablespoons each of chopped parsley and dill, adding vibrancy and depth to the salad.
- Green Onions & Shallot: 3 green onions, thinly sliced, and 1 shallot, finely diced (optional), provide a subtle sharpness.
- Cornichons or Dill Pickles: 1/4 cup diced, introducing a pickle’s delightful crunch and tang.
- For the Vinaigrette:
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, the base of our dressing.
- Red Wine Vinegar or Sherry Vinegar: 2 tablespoons, for that essential acidity.
- Dijon Mustard & Grainy Mustard: 1 tablespoon each, for complexity and a hint of spice.
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced/grated (optional), for a touch of warmth.
- Cornichon (Pickle) Juice: 1 tablespoon (optional), to enhance the pickled flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
Directions:
- Cook the Potatoes: Place diced potatoes in a large pot, covering them with water. Bring to a boil, then simmer until tender but firm (about 10-15 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Vinaigrette: Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustards, garlic (if using), and pickle juice (if using) in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, fresh herbs, green onions, shallot, and cornichons.
- Serve: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the potato mixture, tossing gently to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This salad can be enjoyed warm or chilled. For a chilled salad, marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with additional herbs before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
This salad shines as both a standalone dish or as a companion to grilled meats, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or a summer BBQ, this French-style potato salad promises to be a refreshing and flavorful addition to your table.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approx. 180 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4
Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes, totaling 35 minutes plus chilling time if you prefer it cold.
This French-Style Potato Salad with Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette brings a touch of elegance to your dining table, proving that the most memorable dishes often come from the simplest ingredients. Bon appétit!
