Smoked fish potato salad

Smoked Fish Potato Salad: a delicious and comforting recipe, perfect for fasting days or for a light yet flavorful meal. This salad combines boiled potatoes, rich in nutrients, with smoked fish, which adds a distinct flavor and savory character. It is an ideal choice to bring a touch of freshness and taste to the table without requiring much preparation time.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 5-6 medium potatoes (preferably red or yellow type)
- 1-2 onions (red onion is ideal for a sweeter taste, but any type will work)
- 1 piece of smoked mackerel (approx. 200-300 g)
- A handful of olives (black or green, as preferred)
- Olive oil (approx. 3-4 tablespoons)
- Lemon juice (from half a lemon or to taste)
- Dried dill (1-2 tablespoons)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Preparation Technique

1. Boiling the potatoes: Wash the potatoes well under cold running water to remove any impurities. You can boil them with the skin on, as this helps retain their nutrients and flavor. Place the potatoes in a pot of cold water, add a teaspoon of salt, and let them boil. Check if they are cooked after about 30 minutes by piercing them with a fork. If the fork goes in easily, the potatoes are done.

2. Cooling and peeling: Remove the potatoes from the water and let them cool. Once they have cooled sufficiently, peel them. I recommend using a sharp knife to avoid damaging the texture of the potatoes. Cut them into medium-sized cubes, as you prefer.

3. Preparing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled potato cubes. Sprinkle dried dill over them; this will add a fresh aroma and balance the salty taste of the fish.

4. Adding the fish and vegetables: Remove the bones from the mackerel and break it into suitable pieces. Add it to the bowl with the potatoes, along with the olives and the onion cut into thin slices or cubes, depending on your preference.

5. Seasoning: Season the salad with salt and pepper, then add olive oil and lemon juice. Gently mix so that the ingredients combine without breaking the shape of the potatoes and fish.

6. Finishing: Finally, chop the fresh parsley and sprinkle it on top of the salad for an extra touch of freshness and a neat appearance.

Practical Tips

- Fasting version: If you prefer to make the salad without fish, you can replace the mackerel with smoked tofu or avocado for a creamy texture.
- Flavor enhancements: Add some capers or a few slices of bell pepper for a crunchy note and extra flavor.
- Serving: The smoked fish potato salad can be served cold or at room temperature. It pairs excellently with fresh baguette or a tangy green salad.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is not only tasty but also healthy! Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing lasting energy. Smoked fish, particularly mackerel, is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. Olives add healthy fats, and onions are full of antioxidants. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal, rich in nutrients and with a moderate calorie count.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, you can experiment with any type of smoked fish, such as herring or salmon, each bringing a different flavor.

2. How can I store the salad?
The smoked fish potato salad stores well in the fridge, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. Make sure to mix it well before serving.

3. What drinks pair well with this salad?
A fresh lemonade or a glass of dry white wine are excellent options that complement the flavors of this salad.

A Personal Note

This smoked fish potato salad recipe reminds me of family meals, where each ingredient had its story. Whether we serve it during holidays or on an ordinary summer day, this salad is always a reason for joy. Each bite brings a pleasant memory and an explosion of flavors that delights my taste buds.

Try this simple yet delicious recipe and enjoy a versatile dish that can adapt to any occasion!