Roasted Potato Salad with Mustard-Walnut Vinaigrette: A Savory, Nutty Twist on a Classic Salad

If you’re looking for a salad that’s both hearty and refreshing, this Roasted Potato Salad with Mustard-Walnut Vinaigrette is the perfect choice. Unlike traditional potato salads, which are often laden with heavy mayo-based dressings, this version offers a light yet satisfying alternative. Roasting the potatoes enhances their natural flavors, bringing out a crispiness on the outside while keeping them tender and creamy on the inside. Combined with the tangy mustard and rich walnut vinaigrette, this dish creates a beautifully balanced flavor profile that is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Not only is this potato salad packed with flavor, but it’s also a healthy choice for those looking to enjoy a filling meal without the guilt. The roasted potatoes provide a good source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and potassium, while the walnuts add healthy fats and protein. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or a quick lunch. It’s simple to make, yet sophisticated enough to impress your guests!

Servings and Preparation Time

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

This roasted potato salad comes together in less than 45 minutes, making it a great choice for a mid-week meal or a special occasion.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Potatoes:

• 1.5 lbs baby potatoes (red or yellow)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)

For the Mustard-Walnut Vinaigrette:

• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (toasted)
• 1 tbsp honey (optional for sweetness)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For Garnish:

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• A few walnut halves (for decoration)

Instructions for Roasted Potato Salad with Mustard-Walnut Vinaigrette

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, wash and scrub the baby potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into halves or quarters, depending on their size. Toss them in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Spread the potatoes evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer.

Step 2: Roast the Potatoes

Roast the potatoes for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, while still tender on the inside. Make sure to flip the potatoes halfway through to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside to cool for a few minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Mustard-Walnut Vinaigrette

While the potatoes are roasting, prepare the mustard-walnut vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk to emulsify the dressing. Stir in the chopped toasted walnuts, and adjust the seasoning to taste. The vinaigrette should be tangy, slightly sweet, and nutty.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Once the roasted potatoes have cooled slightly, transfer them to a large serving bowl. Pour the mustard-walnut vinaigrette over the potatoes and toss gently to coat all the potatoes with the dressing. Add chopped fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese (if desired), then toss again. For added visual appeal, garnish the salad with a few walnut halves.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve this roasted potato salad warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or even as a standalone dish for a light yet filling meal. Enjoy the nutty, tangy flavors with every bite!

Tips for Perfect Roasted Potato Salad

• Choosing the Right Potatoes: Baby potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they hold their shape well after roasting and offer a creamy texture. However, you can also use regular potatoes and cut them into smaller cubes.

• Customize the Vinaigrette: The mustard-walnut vinaigrette is the star of this dish. If you prefer a more robust flavor, feel free to experiment with different types of mustard or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth. You can also try adding a small clove of minced garlic for an added punch of flavor.

• Toast the Walnuts: To maximize the flavor of the walnuts, be sure to toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or until they are fragrant and lightly browned. This brings out their natural oils and adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dressing.

• Make it a Meal: For a more filling version of this salad, add protein like grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even chickpeas. This turns the salad into a full meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

• You can also adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. Feel free to add or omit ingredients like olives, roasted bell peppers, or hard-boiled eggs to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Potato Salad

The combination of crispy roasted potatoes with the rich, nutty vinaigrette and the fresh crunch of parsley is what makes this salad so irresistible. It’s a great side dish for summer barbecues, dinner parties, or family meals, but it also works as a standalone dish when you want something satisfying yet light. The mustard-walnut vinaigrette provides a delightful contrast to the potatoes, and the toasted walnuts bring a satisfying crunch to each bite.

Nutritional Benefits of Roasted Potato Salad

Potatoes are a fantastic source of vitamin C, which helps support the immune system and skin health. They also provide a good amount of potassium, which is essential for heart health. The addition of walnuts gives the salad a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain function and reducing inflammation. Olive oil adds heart-healthy fats, while the Dijon mustard and vinegar contribute to digestion and overall gut health.

This roasted potato salad is not only a flavor-packed option for your next meal but also a great choice if you’re looking for a nutritious and filling dish. Its balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and vitamins makes it a perfect addition to any meal.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Potato Salad with Mustard-Walnut Vinaigrette is a wonderful twist on a classic favorite. With the nutty flavor of walnuts, the tangy mustard dressing, and the crispy roasted potatoes, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving it at a picnic, a barbecue, or as part of a weeknight dinner, it’s a dish that will impress both in flavor and presentation.

Give this recipe a try and see how this simple yet sophisticated salad can elevate your next meal!