Authentic Ensalada Mallorquina: A Taste of Majorcan Summer

Ingredients

  • 5 medium potatoes
  • 2 medium tomatoes
  • 1 large red pepper
  • 1/2 large green pepper
  • 1 medium onion
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 2 medium cucumbers
  • 1/2 cup of black olives
  • 1 large can of tuna flakes in oil
  • 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons of white vinegar
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup of fresh chopped parsley

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large pot and fill with enough water to cover. Boil over medium heat until they are tender but still firm.
  2. While the potatoes are boiling, chop the tomatoes, red and green peppers, onion, and cucumbers into small pieces. Peel and mince the garlic. Place all the chopped vegetables and minced garlic in a large salad bowl.
  3. Drain the boiled potatoes and let them cool. Once they are cool enough to handle, peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes. Add the cubed potatoes to the salad bowl with the other vegetables.
  4. Add the black olives and tuna flakes to the salad bowl. Mix all the ingredients together gently to avoid mashing the potatoes.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
  6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Make sure all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
  7. Garnish the salad with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
  8. Enjoy your Ensalada Mallorquina as a main course or a side dish.

Tools for making

  • Potatoes - Medium-sized potatoes are required for boiling and later cutting into cubes.
  • Knife - A sharp knife will be needed to chop the vegetables and cube the potatoes.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and slicing the ingredients.
  • Large pot - A large pot is necessary for boiling the potatoes.
  • Salad bowl - A large salad bowl will hold all the ingredients and allow for easy mixing.
  • Whisk - A whisk is needed to combine the olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
  • Small bowl - A small bowl is required for whisking the dressing ingredients together.
  • Measuring cup - A measuring cup will help ensure accurate measurements of the olive oil and white vinegar.

Recipe variations

  • Vegetarian option: Omit the tuna flakes and add extra vegetables such as roasted zucchini, artichoke hearts, or grilled eggplant.
  • Seafood variation: Substitute the tuna flakes with cooked shrimp, crab meat, or smoked salmon.
  • Protein variation: Replace the tuna flakes with cooked chicken breast or diced ham for a different flavor profile.
  • Spicy twist: Add a chopped chili pepper or a sprinkle of chili powder to give the salad a spicy kick.
  • Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as basil, mint, or dill to add a fresh and aromatic twist to the salad.
  • Cheese lover's delight: Sprinkle grated Parmesan, feta, or goat cheese over the salad for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Nutty addition: Toss in some toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds for a crunchy texture and nutty taste.
  • Citrus zest: Add a squeeze of lemon or orange juice to the dressing for a tangy and citrusy note.
  • Grain inclusion: Serve the salad on a bed of cooked quinoa, couscous, or bulgur wheat to make it more substantial.
  • Colorful variation: Use a mix of different colored bell peppers, such as red, yellow, and orange, for a vibrant and visually appealing salad.

Recipe overview

The Ensalada Mallorquina is a vibrant and refreshing salad that hails from the island of Mallorca, Spain. This salad is a delightful mix of boiled potatoes, fresh vegetables, black olives, and tuna, all tossed in a simple yet flavorful olive oil and vinegar dressing. It's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for health-conscious individuals. A distinguishing feature of this salad is its Mediterranean touch with the use of ingredients like olives and tuna. Whether you're serving it as a main course or a side dish, this salad is sure to win everybody's heart with its delightful combination of textures and flavors. So, get ready to travel the taste buds to sunny Spain with this Ensalada Mallorquina recipe.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of potato? Yes, you can use any type of potato that holds its shape well when boiled.
  2. Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna? Yes, you can use fresh tuna if you prefer. Just make sure to cook it beforehand and flake it into the salad.
  3. Can I add other vegetables or ingredients? Certainly! Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables or ingredients based on your personal preference.
  4. Can I make this salad in advance? Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance, but it's best to dress it just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
  5. Can I store the leftovers? Yes, you can store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  6. Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Ensalada Mallorquina is a quintessential salad from the Balearic island of Mallorca in Spain. As an island, Mallorca has a rich history of fishing and agriculture, which is reflected in the ingredients of this salad. It combines the freshness of local vegetables with the heartiness of potatoes and the richness of tuna, a common catch in the surrounding Mediterranean Sea. This dish is a testament to Mallorca's long-standing tradition of making the most out of what the land and sea have to offer. It is often enjoyed during the hot summer months as a light, refreshing meal that brings together the flavors of the island. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the depth of flavor in Ensalada Mallorquina, making it a beloved dish among locals and tourists alike.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.