The Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad Recipe is fresh, creamy and full of herb flavor. It feels light but still comforting. This salad uses simple ingredients and clear steps.
Many people love this dish for picnics and family meals. If you want to learn how to make Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad, this guide helps you.
The creamy dressing and fresh tarragon work beautifully together. Once you try it, this potato salad becomes a regular side on your table.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first made this potato salad for a summer lunch. I wanted something fresh, not heavy. The smell of warm potatoes and herbs felt comforting.
When I mixed in the dressing, everything looked creamy and bright. My family noticed the fresh tarragon right away.
They said it tasted different, in a good way. Since that day, I make this salad often. It works well for BBQs, potlucks and simple dinners.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Course: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad
- 2 pounds baby potatoes
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh tarragon, chopped
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the Potatoes
Place potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water. Add salt. Boil until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly before cutting.
2. Cut the Potatoes
Cut warm potatoes into bite-size pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl. Warm potatoes absorb dressing better.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Potatoes and Dressing
Pour dressing over warm potatoes. Gently toss to coat without breaking them. Take your time here.
5. Add Herbs and Onions
Add chopped tarragon, green onions and parsley. Gently mix again until evenly combined.
6. Chill and Rest
Cover the bowl and chill for at least one hour. This resting time improves flavor and texture.
Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad
- Use waxy potatoes for best texture.
- Mix dressing while potatoes are warm.
- Chop herbs finely for even flavor.
- Taste and adjust salt before chilling.
- Chill before serving for better taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking potatoes until mushy.
- Using dry potatoes like russets.
- Skipping the resting time.
- Adding herbs too early with hot potatoes.
- Overmixing and breaking potato pieces.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad chilled or slightly cool. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish or burgers. This salad also works well with sandwiches or roasted meats.
The creamy dressing and fresh herbs make it refreshing. It fits casual meals and special gatherings. Guests often ask for seconds because it tastes light and balanced.
Variations You Can Try
- Add chopped celery for extra crunch.
- Use Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
- Add hard-boiled eggs for richness.
- Mix in chopped pickles for tang.
- Use dill instead of tarragon for change.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep refrigerated for up to three days.
- Do not freeze potato salad.
- Stir gently before serving leftovers.
- Serve cold or slightly chilled.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 26 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 410 mg |
Health Benefits
Potatoes provide energy and fiber. Fresh herbs add vitamins and antioxidants. Using moderate mayonnaise keeps the salad satisfying. Tarragon helps digestion and adds fresh flavor.
This recipe balances comfort and freshness. Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad fits well into a balanced meal when enjoyed in proper portions.
Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby potatoes
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh tarragon chopped
- ¼ cup green onions sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Cook the Potatoes
- Place potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water. Add salt. Boil until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly before cutting.
Cut the Potatoes
- Cut warm potatoes into bite-size pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl. Warm potatoes absorb dressing better.
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Combine Potatoes and Dressing
- Pour dressing over warm potatoes. Gently toss to coat without breaking them. Take your time here.
Add Herbs and Onions
- Add chopped tarragon, green onions and parsley. Gently mix again until evenly combined.
Chill and Rest
- Cover the bowl and chill for at least one hour. This resting time improves flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use waxy potatoes for best texture.
- Mix dressing while potatoes are warm.
- Chop herbs finely for even flavor.
- Taste and adjust salt before chilling.
- Chill before serving for better taste.
FAQs about Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad
Can I make Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad tastes better after chilling. You can prepare it one day ahead and store it covered in the fridge.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Baby potatoes or Yukon Gold work best. They hold shape well and absorb dressing nicely without turning mushy.
Can I replace fresh tarragon with dried tarragon?
Fresh tarragon is best for flavor. If needed, use dried tarragon but reduce amount to one tablespoon.
Is this potato salad good for outdoor events?
Yes, but keep it chilled. Use an ice cooler at picnics to keep it safe and fresh.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free mayonnaise. The rest of the ingredients are already dairy-free.
Final Thoughts
The Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad Recipe is simple yet special. Fresh herbs and creamy dressing make it stand out.
If you want to know how to make Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad, follow these easy steps.
The ingredients for Ina Garten Tarragon Potato Salad are easy to find. This recipe brings fresh flavor to any meal. It is a side dish you will make again and again.
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!