Description
This Garden Basil Pesto Potato Salad combines tender new potatoes with a vibrant homemade basil pesto, enhanced by toasted pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of fresh lemon juice. Perfect as a refreshing side dish, this salad is both flavorful and easy to prepare, ideal for spring and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 1 lb new potatoes (Yukon Gold or red)
Basil Pesto
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Seasoning
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Wash and cut the new potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Boil them in salted water for 10-15 minutes until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and allow them to cool slightly.
- Make Basil Pesto: In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves. Blend until the mixture is coarse, then gradually pour in the extra virgin olive oil while continuing to process until the pesto is smooth.
- Combine Potatoes and Pesto: In a large bowl, toss the warm potatoes with the prepared basil pesto, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated with the vibrant sauce.
- Add Lemon and Season: Squeeze freshly squeezed lemon juice over the coated potatoes and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix gently to combine.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the potato salad and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a delicious and refreshing salad.
Notes
- To toast pine nuts, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant.
- For a nuttier flavor, you can substitute walnuts or almonds for pine nuts.
- This salad is best served chilled but can be enjoyed at room temperature as well.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning accordingly.
