Oriental Salad

Salad "Love is a Salad" - A Recipe Full of Flavor and Emotion

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Introduction to the world of salads

The "Love is a Salad" is a classic recipe, full of flavor, that reminds us of moments spent around the table with loved ones. This salad combines textures and flavors, and the combination of boiled potatoes, eggs, and olives has the power to bring smiles to the faces of those who taste it. It's an excellent choice not only for everyday meals but also for special occasions. Whether it's a party, a picnic, or a family dinner, this salad will surely be the star of the table.

Necessary ingredients

1 kg of potatoes
2 eggs (one boiled and one raw)
300 ml of oil (preferably sunflower oil or olive oil for a more intense flavor)
200 g of olives (preferably green or black, depending on preferences)
1 large onion (white or red, depending on preferences)
Vinegar (about 2-3 tablespoons, adjust to taste)
Salt (to taste)

Useful tips for ingredients

- Potatoes: Choose potatoes suitable for boiling, such as red or yellow potatoes. They have a firmer texture and do not break down easily.
- Onion: If you want a sweeter note, opt for red onion. If you prefer a more intense flavor, white onion is the perfect choice.
- Olives: Green olives add a fresher taste, while black ones offer a richer flavor. You can even combine both types for a delicious contrast.

Preparing the salad step by step

1. Boiling the potatoes and eggs: Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes of about 2 cm. Place them in a large pot filled with cold water. Add the whole eggs (one will be boiled, and the other will be used to prepare the mayonnaise). Bring the water to a boil and let it boil for 15 minutes. This step is essential, as the potatoes need to be soft but not overcooked.

2. Preparing the mayonnaise: After the egg has boiled, let it cool slightly, then peel it. In a separate bowl, combine the boiled yolk with the raw yolk. Start mixing with a whisk or mixer, gradually adding the oil until you achieve a creamy consistency. Add salt and a little vinegar. Adjust the amount of oil based on how much mayonnaise you want. This step is an opportunity to experiment and adjust the taste to personal preferences.

3. Preparing the ingredients: When the potatoes are ready, drain them and let them cool. Meanwhile, chop the onion into thin strips (julienne) and slice the olives thinly. The egg white from the boiled egg can be cut into cubes or slices, depending on preferences.

4. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, onion, olives, and egg white. Pour the mayonnaise over the ingredients in the bowl and gently mix to avoid crushing the potatoes. It's important to mix gently to preserve the texture of the ingredients.

5. Finalizing the salad: Taste and adjust with salt and vinegar, to preference. Once you are satisfied with the taste, transfer the salad to a platter or a deep plate. You can garnish with slices of boiled egg, whole olives, or even fresh herbs (parsley or dill) for a more attractive appearance.

6. Serving: The "Love is a Salad" is served cold, preferably after it has had time to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours. This allows the flavors to blend perfectly.

Variations and serving suggestions

- Optional additions: You can add salami, ham, or other preferred cold cuts to enrich the salad and give it an extra protein boost. You can also add celery or grated carrots for an extra crunch.
- Serving with: This salad pairs wonderfully with a refreshing drink, such as white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade. It can also be accompanied by grilled meat or fish for a complete lunch.

Nutritional benefits

This salad is rich in carbohydrates from potatoes, providing an excellent source of energy. Eggs bring quality proteins, and olives are rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins. A serving of salad contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of mayonnaise used.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes can add a sweet note and an interesting taste to the salad.
- How can I store the salad? The salad keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Is mayonnaise necessary? If you want a lighter version, you can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie salad.

In conclusion, the "Love is a Salad" is not just a delicious recipe but also an expression of joy and community. Each ingredient brings a part of your cooking story and, above all, a touch of love. So gather your friends and family around the table and savor every bite of this vibrant and lively salad. Enjoy!