Potato salad

Potato Salad with Mayonnaise: A Satisfying Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Potato salad with mayonnaise is one of those recipes that have transcended generations, becoming a staple in many festive meals and special occasions. With a delicious combination of flavors and textures, this salad is not only nourishing but also easy to make. Whether you serve it alongside a savory barbecue or as a side dish for a festive meal, it's impossible not to fall in love with its taste.

Necessary Ingredients

For the salad:
- 500 g potatoes (choose low-starch varieties for better texture)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 medium onion (preferably white or red, depending on preference)
- 100 g green or black olives (halved)
- 1 bell pepper (sliced thinly)
- Salt, to taste
- Vinegar, to taste
- Olive oil, to taste

For the dressing:
- 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise (you can also use homemade mayonnaise for a more authentic taste)
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream (adds a creamy note and a more complex flavor)

Step by Step

Step 1: Boiling the Potatoes and Eggs

Start by washing the potatoes well. Place them in a large pot and cover them with cold water, ensuring they are fully submerged. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Boil for about 20-25 minutes until they become soft but not overcooked. A good idea is to test a potato with a fork; if it goes in easily, the potato is done.

In another pot, boil the eggs for 10-12 minutes. Once boiled, place them under a cold water stream to stop the cooking process and make them easier to peel.

Step 2: Cooling and Peeling

After boiling, drain the potatoes and rinse them under cold water. This trick not only cools them quickly but also helps remove the skin more easily. Once cooled, peel them and cut them into medium-sized cubes.

Step 3: Preparing the Ingredients

Peel the boiled eggs and cut them into quarters or cubes, depending on your preference. Finely chop the onion, ensuring there are no large pieces left. Add the chopped olives and bell pepper to the diced potatoes.

Step 4: Preparing the Dressing

In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the sour cream. This mixture will add a delicious creaminess to your salad. Adjust the taste with salt, vinegar, and olive oil. It's important to taste along the way to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

Step 5: Assembling the Salad

Add the dressing over the potatoes and other ingredients. Gently mix, being careful not to mash the potatoes. Adjust the final taste with salt, vinegar, and oil, according to your preference. This is the perfect moment to leave your personal touch: you can add fresh herbs or spices that you enjoy.

Step 6: Cooling and Serving

After mixing all the ingredients, cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This cooling period will allow the flavors to meld and make the salad even more flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Potato salad with mayonnaise is delicious on its own, but you can accompany it with some slices of toasted bread or savory crackers. It also pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Variations and Tips

- Ingredient variations: You can add boiled carrots for a crunchy texture or green peas for an extra splash of color.
- Mayonnaise tip: If you want a lighter mayonnaise, you can replace part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Vegan salad: Replace the eggs and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives, such as boiled tofu and plant-based mayonnaise.

Nutritional Benefits

Potato salad is an excellent source of carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. Eggs are rich in protein and essential nutrients, while olives add healthy fats. It's a fairly balanced dish nutritionally, but use ingredients in moderation, especially mayonnaise, to maintain an acceptable caloric intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a sweet note and vibrant color to the salad.

2. What can I add to give it a different flavor?
Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can completely change the salad's flavor.

3. How long can the salad be kept?
This salad keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, but it tastes best fresh.

Conclusion

Potato salad with mayonnaise is more than just a simple dish; it's a culinary experience that brings people and beautiful moments together. I invite you to personalize your recipe, experiment with ingredients, and share your creations with loved ones. So, don't hesitate, get into the kitchen and prepare this classic delicacy!