Name: Potato and Green Bean Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 3.5 pounds New Potatoes (About 10 peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces.); 1 lb Green Beans (Ends trimmed.); 12.25 oz Sliced Black Olives (Drained.); 0.25 cup Balsamic Vinegar; 0.25 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 3 scallions Chopped Scallions; 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt and Fresh Black Pepper

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The Potato and Green Bean Salad is one of those dishes that brings back fond memories of family gatherings. I remember my grandmother preparing this salad during our spring picnics, her laughter blending with the sound of children playing in the background. The vibrant colors of the fresh green beans and new potatoes always brightened the table, making it the perfect side dish. This salad is incredibly easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor, making it a staple for any occasion. It’s the kind of dish that can stand alone or complement any meal, whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a simple weeknight dinner. I love how the balsamic vinegar marries with the olive oil, creating a dressing that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. Every bite is a reminder of those cherished moments spent with loved ones, and I hope it brings you the same joy.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Chef’s Knife, Peeler, Mixing Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Potato and Green Bean Salad

Fresh Ingredients Make All the Difference

When it comes to the Potato and Green Bean Salad, freshness is key. The combination of tender new potatoes and crisp green beans creates a symphony of textures that’s hard to resist. Using seasonal produce means you’re not just getting better flavor, but also supporting local farmers. Plus, who doesn’t love a salad that tastes like spring?

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the things I adore about this recipe is how quickly you can whip it up. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a vibrant, delicious salad ready to serve. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something healthy but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I often find myself making this salad after a long day, and the ease of preparation is a huge bonus.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive dinner, the Potato and Green Bean Salad fits right in. It’s versatile enough to be served as a side dish or even as a light main course. I’ve brought it to potlucks and gatherings, and it always receives rave reviews. There’s something about the simplicity and freshness that resonates with everyone.

Room Temperature, No Fuss

This salad is fantastic because it can be served at room temperature. You don’t have to worry about serving it immediately or keeping it warm, which makes it ideal for picnics or outdoor gatherings. With this salad, you can prepare it ahead of time and let the flavors meld together, allowing for a more robust taste.

Make It Your Own

While the classic combination of potatoes, green beans, and black olives is delightful, feel free to add your own twist! I love incorporating different herbs or even nuts for added crunch. It’s a recipe that invites creativity and adaptation, making it a personal favorite in my kitchen.

Essential Ingredients for Potato and Green Bean Salad

To create a truly flavorful Potato and Green Bean Salad, you need quality ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Each component plays a crucial role in the overall taste and texture, from the creamy new potatoes to the vibrant green beans. Let’s explore the key players that make this salad a standout.

3 1/2 pounds new potatoes – About 10 peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces. These potatoes are the star of the dish, providing a creamy texture that balances the crispness of the green beans.
1 lb green beans – Ends trimmed. Fresh green beans add a delightful crunch and a pop of color, enhancing both the visual appeal and the flavor.
12.25 oz can sliced black olives – Drained. These olives introduce a savory depth to the salad, making each bite more complex and satisfying.
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar – This vinegar adds a tangy sweetness that brightens the entire dish, tying the flavors together beautifully.
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil – A good quality olive oil will elevate the salad, providing richness and depth.
3 scallions – Chopped. The scallions bring a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients without overwhelming them.
1 teaspoon kosher salt and fresh black pepper – Essential for seasoning. Proper seasoning is key to enhancing the flavors of all the other ingredients.

Step by Step Instructions for Potato and Green Bean Salad

Making the Potato and Green Bean Salad is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these steps for a delicious outcome. Trust me; you’ll want to make this salad over and over again!

First, take a large pot and fill it with water, adding a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the new potatoes. Cook them until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them tender but not mushy. When they are done, drain them and let them cool for a few minutes.
While the potatoes are cooking, grab another pot for the green beans. Fill it with water and bring it to a boil. After the water is boiling, add the trimmed green beans and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes. You want them bright green and crisp-tender; so don’t overcook them! Drain them and immediately run them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Once everything is cooked and cooled, it’s time to prepare the dressing. In a large mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, kosher salt, and fresh black pepper. Whisk together until it’s well blended. The aroma will be amazing!
Now, it’s time to assemble the salad. Add the cooled potatoes to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat them in the mixture, being careful not to break them apart. The goal is to have every piece nicely coated.
Next, add in the green beans, scallions, and black olives. Again, gently mix everything together. You want the green beans and olives to be evenly distributed throughout the salad.
Once everything is well combined, taste the salad. This is where you can adjust the seasoning. If you feel it needs more salt or pepper, go ahead and add it now. I always recommend tasting as you go—it’s one of the best parts of cooking!
Finally, let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. You can serve it at room temperature, which makes it perfect for picnics or potlucks.
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad another gentle toss. Transfer it to a serving dish and enjoy your Potato and Green Bean Salad with family and friends!

Things Worth Knowing

Patience is key: Don’t rush the cooking of the potatoes and green beans. Undercooking will result in a less enjoyable texture.
Quality ingredients matter: Use the freshest potatoes and green beans you can find. The flavor will significantly enhance the dish.
Customize your salad: Feel free to add in other ingredients like cherry tomatoes or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
Cool down: Remember to cool the vegetables quickly after cooking to maintain their bright colors and crisp textures.

Recipe Tips about Potato and Green Bean Salad

This Potato and Green Bean Salad is not only delicious but also versatile! Here are some tips to get the most out of your dish:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days.
Freezing: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the salad. Just be aware that the texture may change a bit after thawing.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or served alongside a simple protein for a light lunch.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just add the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley to give your salad an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Temperature: This salad is best served at room temperature, making it a perfect dish for potlucks and outdoor gatherings.

Serving Options for Potato and Green Bean Salad

When it comes to serving the Potato and Green Bean Salad, the options are plentiful. Here are some ideas to consider:

As a Side Dish: This salad makes a perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken or fish during the spring and summer months.
Picnics and Barbecues: It’s an ideal dish for outdoor events. Its room temperature serving style makes it convenient for gatherings.
Lunch Boxes: Pack this salad in your lunch for a healthy, filling meal that keeps well.
Vegetarian Delight: Serve it as a main course with some crusty bread for a light vegetarian dinner.
Seasonal Occasions: It fits perfectly with spring celebrations, like Easter brunch or springtime gatherings.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

FAQ

Absolutely! The Potato and Green Bean Salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just be sure to add the dressing right before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant. This makes it an ideal dish for gatherings or picnics where you want to save time.

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it a perfect side for barbecues. You can also serve it alongside a light protein for a satisfying lunch. It’s versatile enough to complement a variety of dishes!

Definitely! The Potato and Green Bean Salad is very adaptable. Feel free to include other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or radishes, or even toss in some herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness. Make it your own!

The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember that the green beans might lose some of their crispness over time, but the flavors will still be delicious!

Conclusion

The Potato and Green Bean Salad is truly a delightful dish that combines simplicity with robust flavors. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just looking for a quick, healthy side. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it may just become a cherished staple in your home!