Grilled Pesto Potato Salad

One of my favorite summer dishes for backyard cookouts, and family gatherings is potato salad. I found a recipe that puts a new twist on an old favorite. This recipe adds grilled potatoes to pesto to give your potato salad a lighter, healthier, summer flavor.

This delicious recipe is courtesy of the US Potato Board.

GRILLED PESTO POTATO SALAD

Here’s a dish that combines two summertime favorites – grilling and potato salad – into one! The superfast microwave technique saves time and prevents you from turning on the conventional oven in the summer heat. Throwing the potatoes on the grill adds a smoky flavor before tossing with fresh herbs and spices.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: about 15 to 20 minutes
Cost per serving: $1.07

Ingredients:
3 pounds medium-size red potatoes
Olive oil cooking spray
1/3 cup white or golden balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
3 cloves garlic, minced
Freshly ground pepper to taste
1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely minced fresh basil
1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)

How to Make It:
Place potatoes in a large microwave-safe bowl; cover with lid or plastic wrap. Note: If using plastic wrap, make sure plastic wrap is not touching any ingredients and poke one small hole in cover to vent. Microwave on high for 10 to 12 minutes or until potatoes are tender (cooking time may vary depending on microwave). Use oven mitts to carefully remove from microwave. When cool enough to handle, cut potatoes in half or quarters and spray liberally with olive oil spray. Grill over high heat for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely charred. Remove from grill and let cool. Cut into bite-size pieces and place in a large bowl. Whisk together vinegar, oil, salt and garlic; pour over potatoes and toss lightly to coat. Season with pepper, then cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Just before serving, toss with Parmesan cheese and basil, then sprinkle with pine nuts.

Makes 8 servings.

Nutritional analysis per serving:
Calories: 210, Fat: 8g, Saturated Fat: 1.5g, Trans Fat: 0g, Cholesterol: 5mg, Sodium: 230mg, Potassium: 784mg, Carbohydrates: 29g, Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 2g, Protein: 5g, Vitamin A: 2%, Vitamin C: 60%, Calcium: 8%, Iron: 8%

This would be a great recipe to try for your Memorial Day cookouts this weekend.