Beverly Hills Tuna Potato Salad

Felix lived and worked in L.A. for several years in the glory days of the late ‘80s. If you ask him to tell you all about it, he will likely begin with the story of him and his friends working at a shoe shop, helping the likes of David Bowie and Madonna – “I freaked out and hid!” he says, recalling the day Madonna walked through the door. Or, he will tell you about making sandwiches for The Human League or Tracy Ullman “Who was cute, pregnant and always came in and ordered a rare roast beef on a baguette with lots of butter,” he says. He tells me, “It was just a normal day” to see and serve the stars. Sure, Felix, no big deal – wait, WHAT?! His stories are always wonderful and fun, and I just can’t get enough. Honestly, though, they mostly revolve around the memories of really good food. The café and delicatessen where he and his partner worked made fantastic French bistro fare, like fresh chocolate almond croissants, crisp baguettes, delicious desserts and deeply flavorful soups. One day, he told me about this potato salad that he loved from that menu. Though the café is long gone, he’s continued to make his version of the recipe. He says, “It might sound a little bit weird, because it has tuna added, but it is so delicious!” Not at all, Felix. I was immediately intrigued. Once I tasted it, I was hooked! I love this recipe because it takes those familiar flavors of American potato salad and incorporates a simple French twist – fresh herbs, lemon, pickles and tuna. The result is a spectacular yet easy warm-weather meal that’s beautiful and elegant when served over fresh lettuce and is still just as perfect when served with a grilled cheese sandwich and chips. Make sure to use very fresh herbs, and don’t mistake white wine vinegar in this recipe for white vinegar. White wine vinegar has a much more refined flavor which is exactly what you want when added to the warm potatoes, which soak it all up. You could jazz this up with a bit of capers or olives, as well, however it really is wonderful just the way it is. And who knows, you might just get lucky and attract a superstar strolling by to enjoy it with you!