Pesto Potato-Sausage Salad

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Servings: 8 Difficulty: Intermediate
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Creamy pesto dressing tossed with tender smoked sausage and crisp red potatoes
Pesto Potato-Sausage Salad recipe image

This vibrant potato salad combines the earthy sweetness of red potatoes with the smoky richness of kielbasa. The bright, herbaceous pesto dressing ties everything together with notes of garlic, basil, and parmesan. Cherry tomatoes add a fresh pop of acidity and color. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that works perfectly for summer picnics, backyard barbecues, or as a satisfying side for any casual meal. Easy to prepare and even better when made ahead to let the flavors meld.

Pesto Potato-Sausage Salad recipe image
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Pesto Potato-Sausage Salad

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 8 Calories: 131.1

Description

This vibrant potato salad combines the earthy sweetness of red potatoes with the smoky richness of kielbasa. The bright, herbaceous pesto dressing ties everything together with notes of garlic, basil, and parmesan. Cherry tomatoes add a fresh pop of acidity and color. It&# 226;ÂÂs a hearty, flavorful dish that works perfectly for summer picnics, backyard barbecues, or as a satisfying side for any casual meal. Easy to prepare and even better when made ahead to let the flavors meld.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Place halved red potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add a pinch of salt.
  2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook potatoes for 15-20 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
  3. While potatoes cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Drain the potatoes well and spread them on a large baking sheet or plate to cool slightly. Do not rinse with cold water.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm potatoes, browned sausage, and halved cherry tomatoes.
  6. Add the pesto and red-wine vinegar to the bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  7. Serve immediately while warm, or let stand for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 131.1kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.2g1%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 10.2mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 28.9g10%
Dietary Fiber 3.7g15%
Sugars 1.4g
Protein 3.4g7%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For best flavor, allow the salad to rest for at least 20 minutes before serving so the potatoes absorb the pesto dressing.

This dish can be served warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If using very large potatoes, quarter them instead of halving to ensure even cooking.

For a vegan variation, omit the sausage and replace with roasted chickpeas or white beans. Ensure the pesto is vegan (no parmesan).

Keywords: potato salad, pesto, kielbasa, smoked sausage, red potatoes, cherry tomatoes, summer side dish, bbq salad, picnic food, herb dressing, easy lunch, make ahead, comfort food, italian american, grilled sausage, fresh vegetables
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