The Ina Garten French Potato Salad Recipe is creamy, tangy and full of flavor. It is perfect for family meals, picnics or potlucks.
This potato salad is easy to make at home. It uses simple ingredients like potatoes, Dijon mustard and herbs. The texture is soft with a little bite from vinegar and seasoning.
The Ina Garten French Potato Salad Recipe is perfect for those who love classic French flavors. Today, I will show How to make Ina Garten French Potato Salad step by step.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first made this potato salad for a summer picnic. I wanted something different from regular creamy salads. I followed Ina Garten’s method carefully.
The potatoes were tender but firm, not mushy. The dressing was tangy, smooth and flavorful. Everyone loved it instantly.
It became a hit at the picnic. Now, I make it often for family gatherings. It is simple, elegant and delicious every time.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Ina Garten French Potato Salad
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Course: Side Dish
- Cuisine: French / American
- Calories: 250 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Medium saucepan
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Whisk
- Spoon or spatula
- Colander
Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten French Potato Salad
- Yukon Gold potatoes – 2 pounds, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- Eggs – 4, hard-boiled and chopped
- Green onions – 3, sliced thin
- Dijon mustard – 2 tablespoons
- Red wine vinegar – 3 tablespoons
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Chives – 1 tablespoon, chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Boil the Potatoes
Place peeled, cut potatoes in a medium saucepan. Cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Boil until tender but not mushy, about 12–15 minutes.
2. Drain and Cool
Drain the potatoes in a colander. Let them cool slightly. You want them warm, not hot, for the dressing to absorb flavors.
3. Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Add Potatoes to Dressing
Gently toss warm potatoes in the dressing. Stir carefully to avoid breaking the potatoes. Ensure each piece is coated evenly.
5. Add Eggs and Onions
Fold in chopped hard-boiled eggs and green onions. Mix lightly. Eggs add creaminess and onions add a fresh bite.
6. Add Herbs
Add fresh parsley and chives. Stir gently to combine. Herbs give color and extra flavor.
7. Taste and Adjust
Taste the salad. Add more salt, pepper or vinegar if needed. The flavor should be tangy, creamy and balanced.
8. Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. This allows flavors to blend well.
Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten French Potato Salad
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creamy texture.
- Do not overcook potatoes to avoid mushiness.
- Whisk the dressing well for smooth consistency.
- Toss potatoes gently to maintain shape.
- Chill before serving for best flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using starchy potatoes like Russets (they break easily).
- Adding dressing while potatoes are too hot (makes salad oily).
- Overmixing the salad (breaks potatoes).
- Skipping herbs (reduces freshness and flavor).
- Not chilling (flavors won’t fully develop).
Serving Suggestions
Serve this French potato salad alongside grilled meats or roasted chicken. It pairs well with sandwiches or seafood. Garnish with extra herbs for color. Perfect for picnics or holiday meals.
Variations You Can Try
- Add cooked bacon for smoky flavor.
- Use white wine vinegar instead of red wine vinegar.
- Mix in diced celery for crunch.
- Add Dijon and whole-grain mustard for texture.
- Include roasted garlic for deeper flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Keeps well for 2–3 days.
- Do not freeze (eggs and potatoes lose texture).
- Stir gently before serving if chilled.
- Add fresh herbs before serving for brightness.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbs | 26 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
Health Benefits
This salad contains protein from eggs and vitamins from potatoes and herbs. Olive oil provides healthy fats. Using fresh herbs boosts antioxidants. It is lighter than mayonnaise-based potato salads.
Ina Garten’s French Potato Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- Yukon Gold potatoes – 2 pounds peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- Eggs – 4 hard-boiled and chopped
- Green onions – 3 sliced thin
- Dijon mustard – 2 tablespoons
- Red wine vinegar – 3 tablespoons
- Olive oil – ¼ cup
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons chopped
- Chives – 1 tablespoon chopped (optional)
Instructions
Boil the Potatoes
- Place peeled, cut potatoes in a medium saucepan. Cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Boil until tender but not mushy, about 12–15 minutes.
Drain and Cool
- Drain the potatoes in a colander. Let them cool slightly. You want them warm, not hot, for the dressing to absorb flavors.
Prepare the Dressing
- In a large bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Add Potatoes to Dressing
- Gently toss warm potatoes in the dressing. Stir carefully to avoid breaking the potatoes. Ensure each piece is coated evenly.
Add Eggs and Onions
- Fold in chopped hard-boiled eggs and green onions. Mix lightly. Eggs add creaminess and onions add a fresh bite.
Add Herbs
- Add fresh parsley and chives. Stir gently to combine. Herbs give color and extra flavor.
Taste and Adjust
- Taste the salad. Add more salt, pepper or vinegar if needed. The flavor should be tangy, creamy and balanced.
Chill Before Serving
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. This allows flavors to blend well.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creamy texture.
- Do not overcook potatoes to avoid mushiness.
- Whisk the dressing well for smooth consistency.
- Toss potatoes gently to maintain shape.
- Chill before serving for best flavor.
FAQs about Ina Garten French Potato Salad Recipe
Can I use red potatoes instead of Yukon Gold?
Yes, red potatoes work well. They hold shape and have a slightly sweet flavor. Avoid starchy potatoes that break easily.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for smooth texture. You can leave the skin for a rustic version if desired.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a few hours in advance. Refrigerate for flavors to develop. Add herbs before serving.
Is this salad served cold or warm?
It is best served chilled. Warm potatoes can be used to absorb the dressing better before chilling.
Can I add mayonnaise to this recipe?
Traditional Ina Garten French Potato Salad does not use mayo. You can add a small amount if you like creamier texture.
Final Thoughts
The Ina Garten French Potato Salad Recipe is simple, flavorful and elegant. It is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks and family meals.
Using fresh ingredients and following steps ensures tender, tangy and creamy potatoes. Once you try this recipe, it will become a favorite.
It is easy, classic and always delicious. Serve chilled, garnish with herbs and enjoy a French-inspired potato salad at home.
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!