Potato and Green Bean Salad with Arugula Pesto - Recipe
This potato salad will really grab attention on a buffet table. The arugula pesto is a bright emerald green that holds its color much better than basil-based pesto. You should still make the sauce as close to serving time as possible because the fresh flavors begin to dissipate, emphasizing the bitter aspect of the arugula.
It is always best to start potatoes in cold water. That allows the interior a chance to cook before the outside has gone to mush.
Potato and Green Bean Salad with Arugula Pesto
Gluten-free / Serves 4 / 15 minutes active, 1 hour total
- For the vegetables:
- 1 pound small, waxy potatoes
- 8 ounces green beans, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons salt
- For the arugula pesto:
- 2 ounces baby arugula, rinsed and dried (about 3 cups of loosely packed leaves)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 to 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped (use the larger amount if you are a garlic lover)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ounce grated grana padano cheese (or parmigiano) (about ¼ cup)
- To complete the salad:
- fresh ground black pepper
- optional: ½ cup toasted walnut pieces
- For the vegetables: place the potatoes in a large pot of cold water with 2 tablespoons of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then lower heat to maintain a vigorous simmer. When the potatoes are fork-tender, remove them to a bowl with a slotted spoon. Add the green beans to the water and boil for 2 ½ minutes. Remove the green beans to a separate bowl. Rinse both vegetables in cold water until cool. Cut the potatoes in half if they are much larger than bite size.
- For the pesto: Combine all ingredients in a mini food processor. Process until it forms a fairly smooth paste with some texture left. Alternatively you can use an immersion blender, or a regular blender if you make a double batch. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- To complete the salad: Toss the potatoes and green beans with the arugula pesto, several grinds of black pepper, and the walnut pieces if using. Taste and add more salt if needed.
