This tangy green bean potato salad is dotted with mini grape tomatoes and chunks of creamy mozzarella. The lemon mustard vinaigrette with fresh herbs adds a pop of freshness and flavor.
In a small bowl combine the shallots, Dijon and pommery mustard, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, pepper and lemon juice. Whisk to combine.
Whisk in the olive oil one tablespoon at a time - until the dressing is thick and emulsified. Stir in the chopped tarragon and set aside.
FOR THE FRENCH BEANS SALAD:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with equal parts ice and water. Set aside.
Add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and the green beans to the boiling water and cook for 4 minutes or until the beans are crisp tender. Use a pair of tongs or kitchen spider to transfer the French beans from the boiling water to the ice bath. (This is called shocking - and it stops the cooking process while setting the bright green color and crisp-tender texture of the beans).
Add the potatoes to the pot of boiling water that you just cooked the beans in. Boil the potatoes for 9-10 minutes or until they're tender.
Drain the potatoes and transfer to a large bowl. Add 3 tablespoons of the Lemon Shallot dressing and toss to coat. (It's important to season the potatoes while they're hot, as they will soak up the flavors of the dressing). Set the dressed potatoes aside to cool to room temperature.
Remove the green beans from the ice bath and pat them dry on paper towels (try to get off as much moisture so that the dressing will cling to the beans instead of being watered down).
Add the French beans, tomatoes and mozzarella to the potatoes and add 2-3 tablespoons more dressing. Sprinkle with the fresh herbs and toss to combine.
Serve.
Notes
Salad can be served chilled or at room temperature -- I prefer room temp, myself.Extra salad dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Use it on salads, steamed veggies, chicken or fish.