Name: Delicious Italian Potato Salad: Light, Vegan, and Tangy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Baby Red New Potatoes (Feel free to swap with Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Adjust according to your taste preferences.); 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 3 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar (Can substitute with champagne or white wine vinegar.); 1 whole Lemon (zest and juice) (Use zest for aroma, adjust juice for tartness.); 1 clove Garlic (minced) (Garlic powder can be used for a milder touch.); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Pepper (Adjust to your personal spice level.); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) (Fresh basil or mint can be great alternatives.); 1/4 cup Fresh Chives (chopped) (Consider using green onions.); 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 3 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar

Last summer, at a sun-soaked picnic with friends, I stumbled upon a vibrant dish that quickly became a crowd favorite: Classic Italian Potato Salad with Red Wine Vinaigrette. As I tossed the tender baby potatoes with the tangy dressing, bursts of flavor from fresh herbs filled the air, making it impossible to resist. This no-mayo salad is not only a healthy choice but also a delightful vegan and gluten-free option, perfect for potlucks and warm gatherings. The best part? It only gets better as it marinates, allowing the ingredients to meld into a symphony of taste. Are you ready to elevate your summer side dishes with this easy and delectable recipe?

Why is this potato salad irresistible?

Freshness is at the heart of this Italian Potato Salad, featuring vibrant ingredients that burst with flavor. No-Mayo & Light: Ditch the heaviness of traditional salads for a vegan, gluten-free delight that’s equally satisfying. Versatile Flavor: Customize with herbs or add-ins like bell peppers for a unique twist. Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a stunning dish ready for any gathering. Perfect as a side for grilled meats or just to spice up your weeknight dinners, it’s a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress!

Italian Potato Salad Ingredients

• Discover the vibrant flavors!

For the Salad
• Baby Red New Potatoes – The starchy base that gives the salad a delightful texture; feel free to swap them with Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes for a different taste.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances all the natural flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and a smooth texture to the vinaigrette.
• Red Wine Vinegar – Provides a tangy acidity that perfectly balances the dish; you can substitute it with champagne or white wine vinegar if needed.
• Lemon (zest and juice) – Introduces a refreshing brightness; the zest enhances aroma, while juice can be adjusted for desired tartness.
• Garlic (minced) – Delivers depth of flavor; garlic powder can be used for a milder touch.
• Ground Pepper – A seasoning element that adds a hint of heat; adjust to your personal spice level.
• Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Brightens the salad with its herbal notes; fresh basil or mint can be great alternatives.
• Fresh Chives (chopped) – Adds a mild onion flavor; consider using green onions for a subtle twist.

For the Vinaigrette
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Forms the base of the dressing, creating a rich, luscious coating for the potatoes.
• Red Wine Vinegar – Key for adding that tangy punch, complementing the no-mayo theme of the Italian Potato Salad.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Italian Potato Salad

Step 1: Prepare Potatoes
Start by washing the baby red new potatoes thoroughly under cold water. Slice each potato into “fat” quarters to ensure even cooking. Aim for consistent size for uniform tenderness. Set them aside while you prep for the boiling step, and get ready for that vibrant Italian Potato Salad!

Step 2: Boil
Place the quartered potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water, adding a generous pinch of kosher salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook the potatoes for 8-10 minutes, until they are tender but still firm. You should be able to pierce them easily with a fork without them falling apart.

Step 3: Make Vinaigrette
While the potatoes are cooking, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, the juice and zest of 1 lemon, and 1 minced garlic clove. Add in the chopped parsley and chives. Whisk until the mixture is well emulsified and fragrant, creating a tangy dressing that beautifully complements the Italian Potato Salad.

Step 4: Drain and Dry Potatoes
Once tender, carefully drain the cooked potatoes in a colander. Return the potatoes to the hot pot for a few minutes to allow remaining moisture to evaporate. This step ensures the potatoes absorb the vinaigrette fully, enhancing the flavor of your Italian Potato Salad.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the warm potatoes to a large salad bowl and pour the vinaigrette over them. Gently toss the mixture until every piece is well coated with that aromatic dressing. Adjust the seasoning with a sprinkle of salt and ground pepper to taste, allowing the flavors to shine in your Italian Potato Salad.

Step 6: Marinate
Let the salad sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour before serving, giving it a chance for the flavors to meld together and deepen. Ideally, the Italian Potato Salad becomes even more delightful if you can marinate it longer, so plan ahead if possible for those summer gatherings!

How to Store and Freeze Italian Potato Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover Italian Potato Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This allows the flavors to continue to develop even after serving.

Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the salad for up to 1 month. However, the texture of the potatoes may change once thawed.

Reheating: If serving straight from the fridge, allow the salad to come to room temperature before enjoying to enhance its flavors. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can make the potatoes mushy.

Preparation: For best results, assemble the salad fresh and only store the vinaigrette separately if you want the best flavor and texture when serving later.

Italian Potato Salad Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will brighten up your Italian Potato Salad and make it uniquely yours!

Different Potatoes: Swap baby red potatoes for Yukon Gold or fingerling varieties to add a buttery flavor and creamy texture.
Herb Options: Toss in fresh basil or mint in place of parsley for a refreshing herbal note that complements summer gatherings beautifully.
Veggie Boost: Mix in diced bell peppers or sliced black olives for a vibrant splash of color and a salty kick that elevates every bite.
Spice It Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the vinaigrette.
Garlic Depth: If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of minced for a sweet, caramelized taste throughout the salad.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top just before serving to introduce a delightful crunch and enhance the dish’s texture.
Savory Chives: Substitute fresh chives with green onions for a more pronounced onion flavor that adds complexity to this simple dish.
Creamy Note: For a touch of creaminess without the mayo, try mixing in a dollop of tahini or vegan yogurt as a unique dressing alternative.

Feel inspired? Check out how to add delectable touches to other dishes with this Fryer Mashed Potato or create scrumptious Potato Taco Bowls for a fun twist on traditional recipes!

Expert Tips for Italian Potato Salad

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Baby red new potatoes work beautifully, but feel free to swap with Yukon Gold for a creamier taste.

• Boil Smartly: Always start with cold water when boiling potatoes to ensure even cooking; adding them directly to boiling water can result in uneven tenderness.

• Marination Magic: Let your Italian Potato Salad marinate for at least an hour to deepen the flavors; longer sitting time enhances taste!

• Season to Taste: After tossing everything together, taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper. Fresh ingredients can vary in flavor strength!

• Serve Warm or Room Temp: This salad is best enjoyed at room temperature, allowing the flavors to truly shine through in every bite.

What to Serve with Classic Italian Potato Salad

Elevate your meal with vibrant accompaniments that enhance the flavors of this tangy potato delight.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Juicy, marinated chicken complements the salad’s freshness and adds protein for a hearty meal. The zesty flavors pair beautifully, making for a deliciously balanced plate.
Roasted Asparagus with Garlic: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil and garlic add a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto: Light and refreshing, the herbal notes of the pesto and the noodles’ texture create a delightful counterpoint to the creamy potatoes.
Italian Tomato Bruschetta: A burst of sweet, juicy tomatoes on toasted bread brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the salad while keeping the meal light.
Crunchy Green Salad: A mix of arugula, cucumber, and radishes dressed in vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the tender potatoes, creating a textural contrast.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Enhance your dining experience by serving refreshing sparkling water to cleanse the palate, really allowing the bold flavors of your Italian Potato Salad to shine through.
Chocolate Mousse Dessert: For a sweet finish, a light chocolate mousse offers a rich yet airy end to your meal, wonderfully contrasting the salad’s tanginess.

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Italian Potato Salad preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop the potatoes and store them in a sealed container with a splash of water to prevent browning for up to 24 hours before cooking. Additionally, whip up the red wine vinaigrette in advance and refrigerate it for 3 days to enhance the flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply boil the potatoes, drain them, and toss them with the refrigerated vinaigrette. Let the salad marinate for at least 1 hour at room temperature, and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s just as fresh and vibrant as if made on the spot!

Classic Italian Potato Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right potatoes for this salad?
Absolutely! The best choices for this Italian Potato Salad are baby red new potatoes, which provide a wonderful texture. However, if you want a creamier option, Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes work beautifully too. Look for firm potatoes free from dark spots or blemishes for the best results.

How should I store leftover Italian Potato Salad?
Store your leftover Italian Potato Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This allows the flavors to meld even more. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just let it come to room temperature for the best taste.

Can I freeze Italian Potato Salad?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the salad for up to 1 month. However, let’s be honest: the texture of the potatoes may change after thawing. For the best flavor and texture, I recommend freezing the dressing separately, then combining when ready to serve.

What should I do if my potatoes turn mushy while boiling?
Very! To prevent mushy potatoes, always start boiling them in cold water. This allows them to cook evenly. Keep an eye on the cooking time; they should be tender but still firm enough to hold their shape. Don’t forget to test them with a fork!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, this Italian Potato Salad is vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. If you’re serving it to pets, remember to avoid seasonings and onions, as these can be harmful to them. Always check for allergies related to any fresh herbs or ingredients used.

How long should I let the salad marinate before serving?
For the best flavor, let the Italian Potato Salad marinate at room temperature for at least 1 hour. If time allows, a few hours or even overnight is ideal to really enhance the taste and allow all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully!