Potato salad

Oriental Potato Salad - A Delicious Treat!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love a fresh, colorful salad full of flavors? The oriental potato salad is a dish that brings together simple yet delicious ingredients to create a meal that can be served both as an appetizer and a side dish. This recipe is perfect for festive meals, picnics, or even a family dinner.

A brief history of the oriental salad

The oriental salad is a traditional dish appreciated for its versatility and simplicity. Over time, the recipe has been adapted according to the culinary preferences of each culture, but its essence remains the same: a combination of fresh ingredients to delight your senses. This salad has become a symbol of togetherness, often served at family gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients you need:

- 1 kg potatoes
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 pickled bell peppers (or red peppers)
- 2 cucumbers (pickled or fresh, as preferred)
- 100 g olives (green or black, depending on taste)
- 2 red onions
- Salt and pepper to taste

Details about the ingredients:

- Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes for a fluffier texture. Thin-skinned potatoes, like new potatoes, are ideal for this recipe.
- Mayonnaise: You can use store-bought mayonnaise or make your own at home with an egg, oil, and mustard. If you want a lighter version, you can replace part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Pickled bell peppers: They add a tangy flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the potatoes. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use fresh peppers.
- Cucumbers: Pickled cucumbers provide a crunchy texture. If you choose fresh cucumbers, make sure they are well-washed and not bitter.
- Olives: Opt for black olives for a stronger taste or green ones, which are sweeter.

Step by step - How to prepare the oriental potato salad:

1. Boil the potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes well under cold running water. Place them in their skins in a pot with cold water and a pinch of salt. Boil for about 20 minutes until tender but not overcooked, or they will crumble.

2. Cool the potatoes: Once the potatoes are boiled, remove them from the water and let them cool completely. This step is important for easy peeling.

3. Peel and cut the potatoes: After they have cooled, peel them and cut them into cubes of about 2 cm. At this stage, it is essential to ensure they are not overcooked to avoid a mushy texture.

4. Prepare the additional ingredients: Cut the pickled peppers and cucumbers into small cubes, and you can slice or leave the olives whole, depending on your preference. You can julienne the onion and then rub it with a little salt to remove its bitterness.

5. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, pickled peppers, cucumbers, olives, and onions. Add the mayonnaise and gently mix, being careful not to crush the potatoes.

6. Season with salt and pepper: Taste the salad and adjust the seasonings. You can also add a little lemon juice for extra freshness.

7. Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least an hour. This step allows the flavors to blend perfectly.

Serving suggestions and variations:

- The oriental salad is usually served cold, but you can also add a few drizzles of olive oil before serving for a more intense flavor.
- You can add quartered hard-boiled eggs for an extra protein boost.
- A delicious vegetarian variation could include fried tofu or finely chopped fresh vegetables.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes offer a different flavor and a sweet taste, but make sure to adjust the cooking time.
- How can I make this salad lighter? You can replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a healthier version.
- How long can the salad be kept in the refrigerator? The oriental salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.

Nutritional benefits:

This salad is an excellent source of carbohydrates from potatoes, fiber from vegetables, and healthy fats from mayonnaise (or yogurt). Potatoes are rich in vitamins B and C, while olives contain antioxidants that can help protect the body.

Calories: Approximately 220 calories per serving, depending on the amount of mayonnaise used.

Create delicious memories around the table with this oriental potato salad, a simple and quick recipe that will delight friends and family every time! Enjoy!