Garden Basil Pesto Potato Salad

Name: Garden Basil Pesto Potato Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup pine nuts (toasted); ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves (minced); Salt and pepper to taste

Published: June 2, 2025

by Hailey parker

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Garden Basil Pesto Potato Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The fresh basil adds a burst of flavor that transforms ordinary potatoes into something extraordinary
Its eye-catching colors and textures make it a showstopper at any gathering
Enjoy it warm or cold, as a side dish or a light main course

I remember the first time I made this salad for a barbecue; my friends devoured it within minutes and begged for the recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Yukon Gold Potatoes: These creamy potatoes are perfect for salads due to their buttery texture and rich flavor.
Fresh Basil: Use bright green leaves for maximum flavor; they should smell fragrant and earthy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds savory depth; avoid pre-grated versions for better taste.
Pine Nuts: Lightly toast them before adding to enhance their nutty flavor and crunch.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness; opt for high-quality oil for best results.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens flavors and balances richness.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic provides bold flavor; adjust according to your preference.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the other flavors in the salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes: Begin by placing your Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot filled with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and add salt. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Pesto: While the potatoes cook, combine fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, and Parmesan cheese in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.

Step 3: Blend in Olive Oil and Lemon Juice: Gradually pour olive oil into the food processor while blending until you achieve a smooth consistency. Add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Drain and Cool Potatoes: Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them cool slightly. This helps improve texture when mixing with pesto.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together: In a large bowl, cut the cooled potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Add pesto sauce over them and gently stir until well coated without mashing them.

Step 6: Serve or Chill Before Enjoying: You can serve this delicious Garden Basil Pesto Potato Salad right away or refrigerate for an hour to let flavors meld together even more beautifully. dill pickle potato salad.

With each step infused with love and laughter, this recipe not only fills plates but also hearts around your table. Enjoy making this charming dish that encapsulates summer’s essence!

You Must Know

This delightful Garden Basil Pesto Potato Salad blends freshness with comfort
The vibrant colors and aromas will brighten any table, making it an unforgettable dish for gatherings or picnics
You can adjust the ingredients to fit your taste, ensuring a personal touch every time

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the potatoes until tender, then prepare the pesto while they cool. Combine everything just before serving for optimal freshness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different herbs like parsley or cilantro, or add nuts for crunch. Customize it to suit your flavor preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy cold as a refreshing side dish.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve creamy perfection, choose waxy potatoes for this salad
Avoid overcooking them to maintain their shape
Adding lemon juice brightens flavors and keeps the pesto vibrant; don’t skip this step!

Sharing this recipe with friends at a picnic was a moment of sheer joy when they raved about how delicious it was, definitely a keeper!

FAQ

What type of potatoes are best for Garden Basil Pesto Potato Salad?

corn and avocado pasta salad. You might also enjoy this Grilled Corn Avocado Pasta Salad recipe.

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold hold their shape and texture perfectly in salads.

Can I make Garden Basil Pesto Potato Salad ahead of time?

For more inspiration, check out this Mediterranean Mezze Platter recipe.

Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead; just add the pesto right before serving.

How do I store leftover potato salad?

Keep it sealed in the fridge for up to three days for best quality.

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📖 Recipe Card