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Pesto Potato Salad

A vibrant and heart-healthy salad featuring small red potatoes, fresh green beans, and a creamy pesto dressing, perfect for meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 330

Ingredients
  

Salad Base
  • 2 pounds small red potatoes These tender potatoes hold their shape well and add a creaminess to the salad.
  • 6 ounces fresh green beans Bright and crunchy, they provide a delightful contrast in texture.
  • 4 hard-boiled eggs quarterd For protein-packed goodness, making this salad filling.
Dressing
  • 1/2 cup pesto Choose homemade or store-bought for convenience.
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil Adds heart-healthy fats that enhance the overall flavor.
  • 4 tablespoons mayonnaise Helps to create a creamy dressing; consider Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances the natural flavors and balances the dish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adds a subtle kick.
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese Rich and nutty, it complements the pesto beautifully.
  • 4 tablespoons toasted pine nuts Adds a crunchy texture and richness.

Method
 

Cooking Potatoes
  1. Add the potatoes to a medium pot and fill with enough water to cover by 1 inch. Bring to a boil, then add 1-2 teaspoons salt. Reduce to a simmer and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
Making the Dressing
  1. While the potatoes are cooking, combine the pesto with olive oil, mayonnaise, kosher salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Whisk until well blended, then taste and set aside.
Preparing Green Beans
  1. Add green beans to the reserved potato water, simmering for 1 minute. Drain them, rinse under cold water, and cool in a large bowl.
Preparing Potatoes
  1. Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them into halves or chunks. Drizzle with half the dressing and set aside to absorb flavor.
Assembling the Salad
  1. In the large bowl with green beans, add the potatoes, Parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts. Gently toss with the dressing, adjusting seasoning if needed.
Final Touches
  1. Lightly toss again to incorporate, then serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled. This salad is best if allowed to sit for at least an hour before serving.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve flavor and texture, keep the eggs and salad dressing separate until ready to serve. While freezing is an option, the texture of the potatoes and eggs may change. It's better to store it in the refrigerator and consume fresh for the best taste.