Garden Basil Pesto Potato Salad is a delightful twist on the classic potato salad that will have your taste buds dancing in delight. Imagine tender, fluffy potatoes coated in a vibrant, aromatic basil pesto that bursts with fresh flavor and color. savory basil beef wraps fresh green salad wrap This dish is perfect for summer picnics, family barbecues, or even just a casual weeknight dinner.
I remember the first time I made this Garden Basil Pesto Potato Salad for a potluck. The look on my friends’ faces as they took their first bites was priceless, like they had uncovered some hidden culinary treasure. zucchini boats with pesto The combination of the creamy potatoes with the zesty, herbal notes of the pesto creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love! For more inspiration, check out this chicken sausages with zucchini recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This garden basil pesto potato salad is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy days
- The fresh flavors will transport you straight to an Italian herb garden
- Its beautiful colors make it a showstopper at any gathering
- Plus, it pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal
Friends still rave about how delicious it was and how they couldn’t stop eating it until the bowl was empty.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
New Potatoes: Choose small, waxy potatoes for a creamy texture that holds up well in salads.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Select vibrant green leaves; they impart the freshest flavor to your pesto.
Pine Nuts: Opt for lightly toasted pine nuts for added depth and nuttiness in your pesto.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for superior flavor; it makes all the difference!
Garlic Cloves: Use fresh garlic for a pungent kick; roasted garlic also works beautifully if you prefer milder flavors.
Olive Oil: Go for high-quality extra virgin olive oil; it enhances the richness of the pesto.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances out flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; these staples are essential for bringing out all the wonderful flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Potatoes: Start by washing and cutting your new potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a pot filled with salted water and bring to a boil over medium heat until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes.
Prepare the Pesto: While your potatoes are cooking, blend together fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic cloves in a food processor. Gradually drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth and creamy.
Combine Potatoes and Pesto: Once your potatoes are cooked, drain them thoroughly and let them cool slightly. In a large bowl, combine warm potatoes with your luscious basil pesto and gently toss until evenly coated.
Add Lemon Juice and Seasoning: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over your potato salad to brighten up those flavors! Season generously with salt and pepper to taste – don’t skip this step; it’s key! quinoa salad with fresh veggies.
Chill Before Serving: For optimal flavor fusion, cover your bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This allows all those incredible flavors to meld beautifully together.
Enjoy preparing this Garden Basil Pesto Potato Salad which not only satisfies hunger but also elevates any meal into something special!
You Must Know
- Garden basil pesto potato salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience!
- The combination of fresh basil, rich potatoes, and zesty dressing creates a symphony of flavors
- It’s perfect for summer barbecues or as a side for any meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your potatoes until fork-tender, then drain and cool them. Meanwhile, blend basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil for the pesto. Mix everything together for a deliciously cohesive salad.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different herbs like parsley or cilantro for a unique twist. You can also add cherry tomatoes or mozzarella balls for extra texture and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This salad tastes great cold but can be gently warmed if desired.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ingredients
- A splash of lemon juice brightens the dish beautifully
- If you want extra crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts just before serving
Sharing this garden basil pesto potato salad recipe reminds me of summer picnics with friends, where laughter and delicious food intertwined perfectly. For more inspiration, check out this herbed tuna salad recipe recipe.
FAQ
What type of potatoes work best for this salad?
Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for optimal texture.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance for enhanced flavors.
How do I store leftover garden basil pesto potato salad?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Garden Basil Pesto Potato Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Garden Basil Pesto Potato Salad is a refreshing and vibrant twist on the traditional potato salad that combines fluffy, tender potatoes with a homemade basil pesto. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or casual dinners, this dish not only dazzles with its colorful presentation but also delights the palate with its rich flavors. With minimal effort, you can create a show-stopping salad that friends and family will rave about!
Ingredients
- 1 lb new potatoes (Yukon Gold or red)
- 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
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and cut new potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Boil in salted water for 10-15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let cool.
- In a food processor, blend basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Gradually add olive oil while processing until smooth.
- In a large bowl, mix warm potatoes with pesto until evenly coated.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 10mg