French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad

If you’re looking for a light, refreshing dish that captures the essence of a sunny day, then this French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad is just what you need! It’s a delightful combination of tender potatoes, crisp green beans, and a zesty vinaigrette that brings everything together. This salad is not only perfect for family gatherings or potlucks but also makes for a wonderful lunch on warm afternoons. Trust me; once you make it, it will quickly become a favorite in your home!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple and wholesome the ingredients are. Plus, the flavors get even better after sitting for a bit, making it an ideal make-ahead option. You can serve it at room temperature or chilled—either way, it’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have this delicious salad ready in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: The bright colors and fresh flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it ahead of time to save yourself stress before gatherings or busy weeknights.
• Delicious flavor: The zippy vinaigrette perfectly complements the earthy potatoes and fresh beans.
• Versatile side dish: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or your favorite main course.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything you need:

For the Salad

• 2 eggs, hard-boiled (instructions below)
• 2 lbs (900g) new potatoes, scrubbed and halved
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 lb (450g) green beans, trimmed and cut into thirds
• 12 black olives, dry cured
• 4-5 sprigs fresh flat parsley, stemmed and chopped
• 4-5 sprigs chives, chopped

For the Vinaigrette

• 1/3 cup (75ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 tbsp (30ml) lemon juice
• 2 tbsp (30ml) white grape juice vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp chopped capers
• 1 tbsp chopped black olives, dry cured
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are some great ideas to switch things up:

• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in some diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and crunch.
• Swap the protein: Instead of eggs, try adding chickpeas or white beans for a plant-based protein boost.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil to give the salad a unique twist.
• Make it grain-based: Add cooked quinoa or farro to make it heartier—perfect for meal prep!

How to Make French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad

Step 1: Make the Hard-Boiled Eggs

Start by hard-boiling your eggs. Place them in a saucepan and cover with water by one inch. Bring to a rapid boil, then boil for just one minute. Remove from heat, cover, and let rest for 10 minutes. Once cooled under running cold water, peel and slice them into quarters. This step adds protein and makes the salad even more satisfying!

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes and Green Beans

Slice the new potatoes in half (or quarters if they are larger). Put them in a large pot, cover with water by an inch, add salt, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. After boiling for about 12 minutes until tender but not fully cooked, toss in the green beans. Boil everything together for another 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender. Immediately drain into a colander and transfer to ice-cold water—this helps keep those vibrant green colors intact!

Step 3: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a jar, combine olive oil, lemon juice, white grape juice vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, chopped capers, chopped olives, salt, and pepper. Shake well to mix everything together! The vinaigrette is where all those zesty flavors come alive.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a serving bowl, mix the herbs with about half of your vinaigrette first. Then gently add the cooked potatoes, green beans, olives, and toss to combine everything nicely. Top with your egg quarters and drizzle any remaining dressing over top—feel free to adjust based on your taste.

Letting this salad sit for at least 24 hours enhances its flavors beautifully! Enjoy it at room temperature or straight from the fridge; either way will be delicious!

Pro Tips for Making French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad

This salad is as delightful to prepare as it is to eat, so here are some handy tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for small new potatoes or waxy varieties, as they hold their shape better during cooking and provide a creamy texture.

• Don’t skip the ice bath: After boiling, transferring the potatoes and green beans to an ice bath halts cooking immediately. This process preserves their vibrant colors and crisp textures.

• Customize your vinaigrette: Feel free to adjust the acidity in the vinaigrette by adding more lemon juice or vinegar according to your taste. A balanced dressing enhances the overall flavor of the salad.

• Let it marinate: Allowing the salad to rest for at least 30 minutes (or ideally overnight) lets the flavors meld beautifully. It’s a great make-ahead dish!

• Add seasonal veggies: Mix in other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor. This keeps the salad fresh and exciting throughout different seasons.

How to Serve French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad

Presenting this salad beautifully can elevate your meal experience! Here are some ideas on how to serve it with flair.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle additional chopped parsley or chives over the top just before serving for a burst of color and a fresh flavor boost.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side; a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before eating can brighten up all those lovely flavors.
• Toasted nuts: Add some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a crunchy texture that complements the tender veggies.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned with herbs make a protein-packed companion that pairs wonderfully with this light salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf with sautéed onions and garlic provides a hearty side that’s rich in nutrients and complements the salad’s freshness.
• Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and lemon zest adds an elegant touch that harmonizes perfectly with Mediterranean flavors.
• Crispy Baguette Slices: Serve with freshly sliced baguette brushed with olive oil and garlic. It’s perfect for sopping up any leftover vinaigrette!

Now you’re all set to enjoy this vibrant French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad at your next gathering or cozy dinner at home! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad is not only delicious but also a fantastic choice for meal prep! It gets better as it sits, making it perfect for making ahead of time for lunches or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you have leftover vinaigrette, keep it separate to maintain the salad’s crispness.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the potatoes and beans may suffer once thawed.
• Instead, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

• If desired, you can serve this salad at room temperature or lightly warmed.
• To reheat, gently warm in a microwave for 30 seconds; avoid overheating to preserve texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about the French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad.

Can I make French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad without olives?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of olives, feel free to omit them or substitute with capers for a similar briny flavor.

How long will French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad last in the fridge?

The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It actually tastes even better after a day or two as it absorbs the flavors of the vinaigrette!

Can I use different types of potatoes in this salad?

Yes! While new potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, feel free to use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes that hold their shape well when cooked.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This salad is ideal for meal prep as it keeps well in the refrigerator and improves in flavor over time. Just add the vinaigrette right before serving!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful French-Style Potato and Green Bean Salad as much as I do! It’s a refreshing dish that brings bright Mediterranean flavors to your table. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe allows you to savor every bite while enjoying quality time with loved ones. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations on this recipe—I’d love to hear from you!