French Potato Salad With Mustard Vinaigrette

Name: French Potato Salad With Mustard Vinaigrette
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 10 - 12 serving(s)
Ingredients: 2 large shallots, thinly sliced; 1/3 c. white wine vinegar; 1 tsp. sugar; 1 tsp. kosher salt, plus more to taste; 3 1/2 lb. small Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 3/4-inch chunks; 2 tbsp. whole-grain mustard; Black pepper, to taste; 2/3 c. olive oil; 1 1/2 c. fresh parsley, chopped

Pickled shallots and plenty of fresh parsley give this potato salad a light, bright flavor.

By Ree DrummondPublished: Jun 5, 2026

1 Rating

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French potato salad with mustard vinaigrette

Con Poulos

Yields:

10 - 12 serving(s)

Prep Time:

20 mins

Cook Time:

10 mins

Total Time:

30 mins

I think it’s illegal in all 50 states to have a cookout and not have a big bowl of potato salad on the table. This version is what’s known as a French potato salad, and it’s light, herby, and extremely tasty. Instead of the creamy, mayonnaise-based dressing you find on many potato salads, this one is tossed in a tangy mustard vinaigrette filled with shallots and lots of fresh parsley. That vinaigrette-style dressing is what makes it a French potato salad, giving it a fresh, bright flavor. It’s also traditionally served warm or at room temperature rather than chilled. Put it on your list of potato salad recipes to try this summer! You won’t be disappointed.

Can you make French potato salad ahead of time?

Yes! If you want to serve the salad warm, get a head start by pickling the shallots and making the dressing up to 1 day ahead. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Then, cook the potatoes and toss everything together just before serving while the potatoes are still warm.

If you’d rather make the whole thing ahead, you certainly can. Toss it together up to 1 day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving so it can come to room temperature.

What goes with French potato salad?

This salad is an easy side dish for all kinds of simple mains, especially anything grilled. It’s excellent with grilled salmon, grilled shrimp skewers, or just about any of these grilled chicken recipes. It’s also delicious alongside burgers!

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Ingredients

Directions

1. Step 1Combine the shallots in a large bowl with the vinegar, sugar, and salt. Set aside so they pickle slightly while you cook the potatoes.
2. Step 2Put the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water by 1 inch. Season with salt. Bring to a simmer and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain well and let sit in the colander about 10 minutes to cool slightly.
3. Step 3Whisk the mustard into the shallot mixture. Season with pepper. Whisk in the olive oil in a slow, steady stream to make a slightly thick dressing. Add the warm potatoes and toss well. Add the parsley and toss again. Season with more salt and pepper, if needed.