Name: French Style Potato and Green Bean Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 pound baby potatoes (red or yellow), halved; 8 ounces green beans, trimmed; 1 small shallot, finely chopped; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 tablespoon of vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Fresh herbs (parsley or dill), chopped for garnish; (Tip: You can add extra ingredients like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese to make the salad more filling.)

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This French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and light dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick side to pair with a main course or a light lunch, this salad combines tender baby potatoes, crisp green beans, and a tangy Dijon vinaigrette. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and can be prepared in just 35 minutes. Plus, with fresh herbs and a light vinaigrette, this salad is not only delicious but also healthy.

French Style Potato and Green Bean Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad has a lot to offer. The creamy texture of the baby potatoes pairs perfectly with the bright, tender green beans, while the Dijon vinaigrette adds a delicious zesty flavor. The addition of fresh herbs like parsley or dill elevates the dish, giving it a beautiful burst of color and flavor. It’s light, fresh, and versatile, making it a great side dish for grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light vegetarian meal. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare with minimal ingredients, so you can enjoy it anytime!

Ingredients (Serves 4)

1 pound baby potatoes (red or yellow), halved
8 ounces green beans, trimmed
1 small shallot, finely chopped
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill), chopped for garnish

(Tip: You can also add extra ingredients like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese to make the salad more filling.)

Directions

1. Boil the Potatoes

In a large pot, add the halved baby potatoes and cover them with water.
Bring to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

2. Add Green Beans

When the potatoes are almost done, add the trimmed green beans to the same pot.
Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the green beans are bright green and tender-crisp.

3. Drain and Cool

Drain the potatoes and green beans in a colander.
Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process, then allow them to cool for a few minutes.

4. Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified and smooth.

5. Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, green beans, and finely chopped shallot.
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.

6. Garnish and Serve

Taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary.
Garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or dill before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or feta cheese for a heartier salad.
Extra Veggies: Add extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or bell peppers for added color and crunch.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh chili to the vinaigrette for a spicy kick.
Herb Swap: Use tarragon, basil, or chives in place of parsley or dill for a different flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: While best served fresh or at room temperature, you can gently warm the salad in the microwave if preferred.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and green beans in advance and store them in the fridge. Toss with the dressing and garnish just before serving.
Can I use a different type of potatoes?
Absolutely! You can use any type of waxy potato, like red-skinned potatoes, for this recipe. The key is to use small, tender potatoes.
Can I use frozen green beans?
While fresh green beans work best for texture, you can use frozen green beans if needed. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for anyone following a gluten-free diet.
Can I serve this warm?
While this salad is traditionally served cold or at room temperature, you can enjoy it warm if you prefer. Just be sure to add the dressing once the salad cools slightly.
How can I make the dressing more tangy?
If you prefer a tangier dressing, simply add a little more vinegar or Dijon mustard to taste.
Can I use a different mustard?
Yes, you can use whole grain mustard or yellow mustard if you prefer, but Dijon provides a smooth and balanced flavor.
Can I add nuts to this salad?
Yes, adding nuts like toasted almonds or walnuts would add a nice crunch to the salad.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time, but wait to add the dressing and garnish just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Can I use a different vinegar?
You can substitute red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a slightly different flavor.

Conclusion

This French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender potatoes, crisp green beans, and a tangy Dijon vinaigrette, it’s the ideal side dish to pair with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a light meal on its own. The best part? It comes together in just 35 minutes and can be customized to suit any dietary preference. Whether you serve it warm, cold, or at room temperature, this salad is sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your recipe rotation.