Looking for a light, refreshing side dish that’s bursting with flavor? This Italian Green Beans & Potatoes Salad is a perfect option for any meal. Combining tender potatoes, crisp green beans, and the aromatic flavors of fresh basil and oregano, this salad is a simple yet delicious dish. It’s great for picnics, potlucks, or as a side to your favorite Italian main courses.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to prepare this delightful salad, step by step, and offer tips for the best results.
Ingredients for Italian Green Beans & Potatoes Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful salad:
- 4 cups fresh green beans
- 3 medium potatoes
- 1 red onion (thinly sliced)
- Fresh basil, to taste
- Oregano, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil, for seasoning
Method: How to Make Italian Green Beans & Potatoes Salad
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Start by washing and scrubbing the potatoes to remove any dirt.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot of cold salted water and bring to a boil. Let them cook for about 40 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Prepare the Green Beans:
- While the potatoes are boiling, wash the green beans and trim the tips (and remove the string if necessary).
- In a separate large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the green beans and cook for 10 minutes, ensuring they remain crisp.
3. Cool the Vegetables:
- Once the green beans are cooked, drain them and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color.
- When the potatoes are done, drain them and allow them to cool slightly. Peel the potatoes and cut them into large chunks.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked green beans and potatoes.
- Add the thinly sliced red onion for a burst of sharp flavor and crunch.
5. Season the Salad:
- Drizzle the salad with a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil.
- Season with salt, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of oregano to taste.
- Toss everything gently to combine.
6. Refrigerate and Serve:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing side dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Italian Green Beans & Potatoes Salad
- Keep the Green Beans Crisp: To maintain the crisp texture of the green beans, be sure not to overcook them. Blanching them for about 10 minutes will keep them perfectly tender-crisp.
- Cool the Potatoes: Allow the potatoes to cool slightly before peeling and cutting. This will help them hold their shape when mixed with the other ingredients.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and oregano provide the best flavor for this salad, so try to use fresh herbs when possible.
- Make Ahead: This salad is great when made ahead of time, as the flavors continue to develop while it sits in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Green Beans & Potatoes Salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:
- Pair it with grilled meats or fish for a light and refreshing side dish.
- Serve it as part of an antipasto spread for an Italian-themed meal.
- It’s also great on its own as a light lunch or picnic dish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier after a day or two.
- Do Not Freeze: This salad is best enjoyed fresh and should not be frozen as the texture of the potatoes and green beans may change after thawing.
Conclusion
This Italian Green Beans & Potatoes Salad is a delicious, fresh, and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a fantastic addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, a holiday dinner, or a casual family meal, this salad is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy the delightful combination of fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs!
