Balsamic Potato Salad is a delightful and refreshing side dish that shines at any gathering. Its unique combination of tender baby potatoes and a tangy balsamic dressing makes it perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or even as a light dinner accompaniment. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, this salad is both visually appealing and delicious. Enjoy the versatility of Balsamic Potato Salad as it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be served on its own as a hearty vegetarian option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: Whip up this salad in just 35 minutes, making it a quick option for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Fresh: The tangy balsamic dressing combined with fresh herbs elevates the taste of simple ingredients.
- Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for any occasion—from casual dinners to festive gatherings—this salad complements a variety of main dishes.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious baby potatoes and fresh veggies, this salad is guilt-free and filling.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins, tailoring the salad to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making Balsamic Potato Salad, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the baby potatoes evenly and efficiently.
- Mixing bowl: Helps in combining all ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: Ensures that the dressing ingredients blend smoothly for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
A refreshing and flavorful side dish that combines tender baby potatoes with a tangy balsamic dressing.
For the Salad
- 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Balsamic Potato Salad
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place the halved baby potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Cook Until Tender
Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly. Let them simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes using a colander and set aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes with finely chopped red onion and halved cherry tomatoes. Pour the dressing over this mixture.
Step 5: Toss Salad Gently
Gently toss everything together until all components are coated in the dressing.
Step 6: Add Fresh Herbs
Fold in the freshly chopped parsley and basil. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve
Serve your Balsamic Potato Salad warm or chilled. For best results, let it sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together beautifully.
How to Serve Balsamic Potato Salad
Balsamic Potato Salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with many meals. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner, this salad can elevate your dining experience.
Pair with Grilled Meats
- Chicken Skewers – Juicy chicken skewers complement the tangy flavors of the salad.
- Grilled Steak – The richness of grilled steak balances the freshness of the potatoes.
Lighten Up with Fish
- Grilled Salmon – The flaky texture and flavor of salmon work wonderfully with balsamic potato salad.
- Shrimp Tacos – Spicy shrimp tacos provide a delightful contrast to the mild salad.
Enjoy as Part of a Picnic Spread
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses offers variety and enhances the salad’s taste.
- Fresh Breads – Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Add to a Brunch Buffet
- Egg Salad Sandwiches – Creamy egg salad complements the crunchy elements in the potato salad.
- Quiche – A slice of quiche pairs nicely, creating an enjoyable brunch experience.
How to Perfect Balsamic Potato Salad
To make your Balsamic Potato Salad truly outstanding, consider these simple tips.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients – Using fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes enhances flavor significantly.
- Let It Chill – Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes lets flavors meld beautifully.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving for optimal flavor.
- Use Quality Olive Oil – A high-quality olive oil adds richness to the dressing.
- Experiment with Add-Ins – Incorporate ingredients like feta cheese or olives for extra depth.
Best Side Dishes for Balsamic Potato Salad
Balsamic Potato Salad pairs well with various side dishes, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Bread – This buttery, garlicky delight complements the tangy notes in your salad perfectly.
- Coleslaw – Crisp coleslaw adds crunch and balances the soft textures in the potato dish.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies enhance your meal with their caramelized sweetness.
- Caprese Salad – The freshness of tomatoes and mozzarella provides an Italian twist alongside your dish.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad contrasts beautifully with savory elements of your meal.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a delightful pop of flavor that pairs wonderfully with balsamic potatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Balsamic Potato Salad can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some to watch out for.
- Skipping the salt in boiling water: Not adding salt while boiling the potatoes can lead to bland flavors. Always season the water generously to enhance taste.
- Overcooking the potatoes: Cooking the potatoes for too long can make them mushy. Aim for fork-tender, usually 15-20 minutes, depending on size.
- Using stale herbs: Fresh herbs are key for flavor. Make sure your parsley and basil are fresh and vibrant to maximize taste.
- Not letting it sit before serving: Serving immediately can miss out on flavor development. Allow at least 30 minutes for the dressing to meld with the ingredients.
- Ignoring texture balance: A good salad should have various textures. Ensure you include crunchy elements like red onion or cherry tomatoes for added interest.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Enjoy within 3-5 days for best flavor and quality.
Freezing Balsamic Potato Salad
- Freezing is not recommended as it may alter potato texture.
- If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container, but consume within 1 month.
Reheating Balsamic Potato Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Balsamic Potato Salad.
Can I make Balsamic Potato Salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better after sitting for a while. Prepare it a few hours before serving to let flavors develop.
What can I add to Balsamic Potato Salad?
You can customize this salad with ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or bell peppers for extra flavor and crunch.
Is Balsamic Potato Salad vegan-friendly?
Yes! All ingredients used in this recipe are plant-based, making it suitable for vegans.
How do I store leftover Balsamic Potato Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to 5 days.
Final Thoughts
Balsamic Potato Salad is a delightful side dish that brings refreshing flavors to any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for gatherings or a simple family dinner. Give it a try today!
Balsamic Potato Salad
Balsamic Potato Salad is a vibrant and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This delightful salad combines tender baby potatoes with a tangy balsamic dressing, making it an ideal companion for summer picnics, barbecues, or light dinners. With its colorful ingredients and bold flavors, this salad not only pleases the palate but also adds visual appeal to your table. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty vegetarian option. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply looking for a nutritious side, Balsamic Potato Salad is a must-try!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby potatoes
- 1/2 cup red onion
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup fresh basil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Boil halved baby potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15-20 minutes). Drain and let cool.
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled potatoes, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Pour dressing over the mixture.
- Toss gently to coat all ingredients in dressing.
- Fold in chopped parsley and basil, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Serve warm or chilled, allowing at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
