Simple Oriental Salad

Simple Oriental Salad – a delicious and versatile recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn’t love a salad that combines fresh taste with creamy texture? The simple Oriental salad is not only an excellent choice for everyday meals but also a perfect accompaniment for any occasion. It is an easy recipe to prepare, ideal for those who want to stay fit but don’t want to give up on flavor. Additionally, you can easily adapt it by using vegan mayonnaise, as I do when I’m on a diet.

The history of the Oriental salad takes us back in time when simple and natural ingredients were highly sought after. This salad has evolved over the years, becoming a symbol of conviviality and family meals, served at festive gatherings or on ordinary days.

Necessary ingredients:

- 10 medium potatoes (approximately 1 kg)
- 150 grams of black olives, pitted
- 2 medium onions
- 2 hard-boiled eggs
- 200 grams of mayonnaise (can be vegan)
- 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar
- Salt or seasoning to taste

Step by step for a perfect Oriental salad:

1. Preparing the potatoes:
Start by washing the potatoes well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Place them in a large pot, cover them with water, and add a teaspoon of salt. This will help prevent the skin from cracking during boiling. Boil the potatoes for about 20-30 minutes until they are tender but not too soft. Once done, remove them from the water and let them cool.

2. Cutting the potatoes:
After they have cooled, carefully peel them. I recommend using a sharp knife to make this process easier. Then cut them into cubes of about 1-2 cm. This size allows the salad to have a pleasant texture and mix well with the other ingredients.

3. Preparing the onions and olives:
While the potatoes are cooling, you can prepare the onion. Slice the onion thinly and place it in a bowl. The pitted olives should be cut into thin strips and added to the same bowl. These ingredients will add a distinctive flavor to your salad.

4. Mixing the ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped potatoes, onion, and olives. Mix everything carefully to avoid crushing the potato cubes. Add the hard-boiled eggs, cut into cubes, and mix again.

5. Adding the mayonnaise:
Finally, add the mayonnaise – whether it’s vegan or not – and the vinegar. Use a spatula or a large spoon to mix everything evenly. Taste the salad and adjust with salt or seasoning according to your preferences.

6. Serving:
Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to blend perfectly. Serve the salad in a large bowl or portion it onto individual plates. You can garnish it with fresh parsley leaves or slices of olives for a more attractive appearance.

Useful tips:

- You can also add other ingredients like grated carrots or pickled cucumbers for a touch of freshness.
- If you prefer a tangier taste, you can add lemon juice instead of vinegar.
- The Oriental salad pairs perfectly with fresh bread or a glass of dry white wine.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
The Oriental salad is a healthy choice, rich in complex carbohydrates from potatoes, providing long-lasting energy. Olives add healthy fats, while onions contribute antioxidants and vitamins. This salad is low in calories, with approximately 200-250 calories per serving, depending on the amount of mayonnaise used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace mayonnaise with yogurt?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version with fewer calories.
- How can I keep the salad longer?
I recommend storing it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It usually stays fresh for up to 2-3 days.

In conclusion, the simple Oriental salad is a versatile, easy-to-make, and delicious recipe that can be adapted to everyone’s tastes. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, this salad is sure to bring a smile to anyone's face. Enjoy!