Potato salad with mushrooms

Potato salad with mushrooms: a symphony of flavors and textures

Who doesn't love a potato salad? This classic potato salad recipe with mushrooms is not only simple and quick but also extremely versatile, perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Combining fluffy potatoes and aromatic mushrooms, this salad is an excellent choice as a side dish or even as a main course, especially on warm summer days.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 6 medium potatoes (about 1 kg)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 red bell pepper (or green, as preferred)
- 1 green onion (or 1/2 white onion)
- 150 g canned mushrooms (or fresh mushrooms, if preferred)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 10 green or black olives (your choice)
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh dill
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon or balsamic vinegar (for a splash of acidity)
- Olive oil (optional)

Preparation:

1. Boiling the potatoes and carrot: Start by washing the potatoes and carrot well under cold running water. It is important to boil them with their skins on, as this helps retain nutrients and flavors. Place the potatoes and carrot in a large pot, add cold water and a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, until the potatoes are tender but not falling apart.

2. Preparing the vegetables: While the potatoes and carrot are boiling, chop the green onion, bell pepper, and garlic into small pieces. Place them in a large bowl. If using fresh mushrooms, clean and slice them. If using canned mushrooms, drain them well before use.

3. Cutting the potatoes and carrot: Once the potatoes and carrot are boiled, drain them and let them cool slightly. Peel them while still warm, then slice them into thin rounds. Add them to the bowl with the chopped vegetables.

4. Mixing the ingredients: Add the mushrooms, sliced olives, and if desired, a splash of olive oil. Gently mix everything together, ensuring the ingredients combine evenly but do not break apart.

5. Seasoning: Season the salad with salt, pepper, and add the finely chopped dill. For an extra touch of freshness and acidity, squeeze the juice of one lemon or add balsamic vinegar. Mix again to blend the flavors.

6. Serving: Let the salad rest for 10-15 minutes for the flavors to develop. You can serve it warm or cold, on a bed of greens or alongside a slice of fresh bread. It is also delicious as a side dish for grilled meats or fish.

Practical tips:
- Buy potatoes of uniform size to ensure even cooking. New potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their delicate texture.
- Add fresh dill, as it brings an extra freshness. You can replace dill with basil or parsley if you prefer a different taste.
- If you want to add a hint of spice, you can include a few slices of chili pepper.
- The salad can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

Nutritional benefits:
This potato salad is rich in complex carbohydrates, providing lasting energy. Mushrooms are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, while dill adds antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system. Additionally, olives are rich in healthy fats and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned mushrooms?
Yes, fresh mushrooms add a richer taste and texture. Make sure to sauté them a bit before adding them to the salad to enhance their flavor.

2. How can I make the salad more substantial?
You can add cubes of feta cheese or pieces of tuna for a protein boost.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
Cooked beets, corn, or even avocado are excellent options to diversify the recipe.

4. What can this salad be paired with?
Potato salad with mushrooms pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, fish, or even vegetarian dishes. You can serve it with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Possible variations:
- Add some nuts or roasted peanuts for extra crunch.
- Experiment with different types of olives or feta-style cheese for a burst of flavors.

This potato salad with mushrooms is not just a delicious recipe but also a way to bring family and friends together around the table. It offers a pleasant texture and a palette of flavors that complement each other perfectly. So, get ready to enjoy a healthy and tasty meal! Bon appétit!