This herbed Dijon potato salad is a delightful and zesty twist on a classic dish. Made with tender baby potatoes and tossed in a vibrant mustard-garlic vinaigrette, it’s ideal for picnics, summer barbecues, or any gathering. The combination of fresh herbs elevates the flavors, making it a standout side dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Twist: The herbed Dijon potato salad combines familiar ingredients with bold flavors, creating an exciting dish that surprises your taste buds.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this salad warm, at room temperature, or chilled—perfect for any occasion.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is suitable for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this potato salad is not only delicious but also nutritious.
- Great for Leftovers: This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
To make your herbed Dijon potato salad, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Medium pot
- Small bowl
- Parchment-lined baking sheet
- Large serving bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Medium pot: Ideal for boiling potatoes evenly without overcrowding.
- Small bowl: Perfect for mixing the dressing thoroughly to combine flavors.
- Parchment-lined baking sheet: Helps cool potatoes quickly and prevents sticking.
- Large serving bowl: Provides ample space to mix all ingredients without spilling.
Ingredients
To create the perfect herbed Dijon potato salad, gather the following ingredients:
For the Salad
- 3 lb. baby red or purple potatoes, quartered
- ¼ cup plus 2 tsp. kosher salt, divided (or more to taste)
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
For the Dressing
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, or more to taste
- 6 Tbsp. white wine vinegar or Champagne vinegar, divided
For Garnish
- 4 scallions, thinly sliced
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup chopped fresh dill
- ¼ cup chopped fresh tarragon
How to Make Herbed Dijon Potato Salad
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place quartered potatoes in a medium pot and cover them with water by at least 1 inch.
1. Add ¼ cup salt and bring to a boil.
2. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until tender but still holding their shape.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:
1. 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2. ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
3. ¼ cup Dijon mustard
4. 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
5. ¼ cup white wine vinegar or Champagne vinegar
6. Add 2 tsp. salt until well combined.
Step 3: Cool the Potatoes
Drain the cooked potatoes and spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
1. Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of vinegar.
2. Let cool for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Transfer the cooled potatoes to a large serving bowl.
1. Add the mustard dressing you made earlier.
2. Incorporate scallions, parsley, dill, and tarragon.
3. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste your herbed Dijon potato salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
– Serve at room temperature or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Enjoy your delicious herbed Dijon potato salad as a flavorful side dish!
How to Serve Herbed Dijon Potato Salad
Herbed Dijon potato salad is a versatile dish that complements many meals. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or enjoying a picnic, here are some creative ways to serve this delicious salad.
At Room Temperature
- Serve it as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats, allowing the flavors to shine.
- Pair with a chilled white wine for a delightful summer meal.
Chilled for Picnics
- Pack it in a cooler with fresh veggies and dips for an easy picnic spread.
- Add some crackers or breadsticks for extra crunch.
As Part of a Buffet
- Include in buffet-style dining alongside other salads and sides for variety.
- Garnish with extra herbs for an appealing presentation.
Warm Option
- Serve warm as a comforting side during colder months.
- Top with crispy bacon bits for added flavor.
With Grilled Seafood
- Complement grilled shrimp or fish to enhance the meal’s freshness.
- Drizzle with lemon juice before serving for an extra zing.
How to Perfect Herbed Dijon Potato Salad
To ensure your herbed Dijon potato salad is absolutely perfect, consider these helpful tips:
- Choose Quality Potatoes: Use fresh baby red or purple potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- Properly Salt Water: Make sure to add enough salt to the boiling water; it enhances the potatoes’ taste.
- Cool Down Quickly: Spread cooked potatoes on a baking sheet to cool evenly and prevent mushiness.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use freshly chopped herbs like parsley, dill, and tarragon for vibrant taste and aroma.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; every batch may need different amounts of salt and pepper.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the salad ahead of time; letting it sit in the fridge allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Herbed Dijon Potato Salad
Herbed Dijon potato salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, making your meal even more delightful. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn adds a smoky flavor that complements the salad perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized brings out natural sweetness.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the tangy potato salad.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances out the creaminess of the potato salad.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice or quinoa make a hearty pairing that is visually appealing.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch alongside this flavorful side dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making herbed Dijon potato salad, it’s easy to slip up on some details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking Potatoes: Cooking the potatoes too long can make them mushy. Aim for tender potatoes that still hold their shape.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Not allowing the potatoes to cool before adding dressing can lead to a soggy salad. Spread them out and let them cool for at least 5 minutes.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland flavors. Always taste your salad before serving and tweak it as needed.
- Using Fresh Herbs Sparingly: Fresh herbs add vibrancy and flavor. Don’t skimp on parsley, dill, or tarragon; they are key to this dish!
- Choosing the Wrong Vinegar: Substituting vinegar types without considering flavor can change the salad’s profile. Stick with white wine or Champagne vinegar for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the salad refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Freezing Herbed Dijon Potato Salad
- Freezing is not recommended as potatoes may become mushy upon thawing.
- If you must freeze, consider omitting fresh herbs before freezing.
Reheating Herbed Dijon Potato Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short increments of 30 seconds, stirring between each until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make herbed Dijon potato salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What type of potatoes work best for herbed Dijon potato salad?
Baby red or purple potatoes are ideal due to their size and texture, but feel free to use any waxy potato variety.
How do I customize my herbed Dijon potato salad?
You can add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, olives, or even bacon for extra flavor. Just remember not to overpower the herbed dressing.
Is herbed Dijon potato salad gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products.
What should I serve with herbed Dijon potato salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as part of a picnic spread.
Final Thoughts
Herbed Dijon potato salad is a delightful twist on a classic side dish that offers both flavor and versatility. Perfect for summer gatherings or casual dinners, this recipe allows room for customization based on your preferences. Try adding your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it uniquely yours!
Herbed Dijon Potato Salad
Herbed Dijon potato salad is a vibrant and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. This refreshing side dish features tender baby potatoes tossed in a zesty mustard-garlic vinaigrette, complemented by an array of fresh herbs. Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings, this potato salad will elevate any meal with its delightful taste and appealing presentation. Easy to prepare, it’s perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks alike, and it even improves in flavor after chilling overnight.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately eight people 1x
Ingredients
- 3 lb baby red or purple potatoes, quartered
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tsp kosher salt
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 6 tbsp white wine vinegar or Champagne vinegar
- 4 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh tarragon
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes: Place quartered potatoes in a medium pot, cover with water by at least an inch, add 1/4 cup salt, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 10 minutes until tender.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, Dijon mustard, black pepper, remaining vinegar, and salt to combine.
- Cool the Potatoes: Drain cooked potatoes and spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with remaining vinegar and let cool for about 5 minutes.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooled potatoes with dressing and toss with scallions, parsley, dill, and tarragon.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning if needed and serve at room temperature or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg