This classic Italian potato salad recipe is a refreshing and flavorful twist on the traditional American potato salad. Made with freshly boiled potatoes, tangy olives, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty dressing, this salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any summer gathering. It's a crowd-pleasing dish that will transport you to the sunny Mediterranean with every bite. Give this Italian potato salad a try and impress your friends and family with a taste of the Old World.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds red potatoes
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly and place them in a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are tender but still firm, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
- Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them into bite-sized pieces and transfer them to a large bowl.
- Add the olives, red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and basil to the bowl with the potatoes.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the potato mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the potato salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the potato salad a final stir and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with additional parsley and serve chilled.
Interesting Facts
In Italy, potato salad is often served as an antipasto or a side dish with grilled meats and fish.
Kalamata olives are a key ingredient in Italian potato salad, adding a briny and tangy flavor to the dish.
Italian potato salad is commonly made with red potatoes, known for their creaminess and ability to hold their shape after boiling.
The dressing for Italian potato salad is typically made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Dijon mustard, giving it a bright and tangy taste.